Have you wondered how many individuals use contact lenses worldwide? About 140 million people! Unfortunately, poor contact lens care increases the risk of eye infections and consequences rather significantly. It surprises you to learn that about 60% of lens users confess they ignore good contact lens hygiene. The dos and don’ts and necessary care in preserving good eyes and clear vision will be covered in this tutorial below.

Why is Sound Contact Lens Care Important?

Keratitis is an eye infection that induces pain in the eye, redness, and even vision loss. It can commonly be caused by ignoring basic contact lens care. Furthermore, inadequate treatment can cause dryness and shortened lens lifetime. On the other hand, following advised cleaning and storage techniques guarantees clear and healthy vision by preventing infections, improving comfort, and prolonging the life of your lenses.

Daily Contact Lens Care Routine

Maintaining a consistent cleaning schedule is vital for eye health. Follow these steps:

1) Wash and Dry Hands

• Clean your hands with soap before handling lenses.
• Use a lint-free towel to dry your hands to control the transfer of detritus. 

2) Clean Lenses Using Suggested Solutions

• Put the lens in your palm, then use the advised cleaning solution.
• To clear deposits, gently run your fingertip across the lens.
• To remove loose dirt, thoroughly rinse the lens with a fresh solution.

3) Proper Lens Storage

• Store lenses in a spotless case loaded with a fresh disinfecting solution.
• Steer clear of spit or water since they could bring dangerous bacteria.
• Every three months, the storage case is changed to reduce contamination risk.

The threat of eye infection can be lessened immensely by following the steps noted above.

Everyday Mistakes in the Care of Contact Lenses

Even experienced users may make errors, compromising eye comfort and health. These are some of the most often occurring mistakes and tips on how to prevent them:

a) Sleeping in Lenses: Extended wear without permission could cause extreme infections. 

Solution: Unless advised by your eye care specialist, permanently remove lenses before sleeping.

b) Using Water or Saliva for Cleaning: Saliva and tap water both have dangerous bacteria. 

Solution: Rinse and clean using only recommended contact lens solutions.

c) Reusing Old Solution: Topping off old solution reduces its disinfecting potential. 

Solution: Replace the solution in your lens case daily.

What’s the Best Contact Lens Solution? Exploring the Types and How to Choose One

Keeping your eyes comfortable and healthy requires choosing the correct contact lens solution. The primary kinds and how to pick the finest one are as follows:

• Multifunctional Solutions: These methods, which clean, disinfect, and store lenses all at once, are perfect for the majority of users. Ideal for Daily use and convenience.
• Hydrogen Peroxide-Based Solutions: Offers deep cleaning by breaking down protein deposits without preservatives. Best for: Those with sensitive eyes or allergies.
• Saline Solutions: Used for rinsing and storing lenses but does not disinfect. Best for: Rinsing after cleaning with another solution.

Factors to Consider:

• Lens Type: Ensure the solution is compatible with soft or rigid lenses as specified.
• Sensitivity: Opt for preservative-free solutions if you have sensitive eyes.
• Lifestyle: Choose multipurpose solutions for convenience if you have a busy schedule.

Selecting the appropriate solution not only enhances comfort but also minimises the risk of infections and prolongs the life of your lenses.

Tips for Safe Contact Lens Usage

Maintaining long-term comfort and avoiding infections depend on using correct contact lens care techniques. These valuable suggestions help to improve safety:

• Say no to Lenses When Swimming: Swimming Pools and water bodies contain bacteria that can settle on lenses, which can act as a serious risk of eye infections.
• Replace Lenses According to Replacement Schedules: Wearing lenses past their recommended time may result in irritation and infections. Replace them according to your eye care professional’s guidelines.
• Plan Frequent Eye Check-Ups: Frequent visits to your ophthalmologist aid in diagnosing and preventing possible issues early on.
• Never Share Lenses: Sharing lenses transmits bacteria and causes eye infections.

These suggestions will help you significantly reduce the potential risks involved in wearing contact lenses and experience comfortable, clear vision in daily life.

Conclusion

That brings us to the end of this post, where we discussed the best ways to maintain your contact lenses in optimal condition. That being said, it is essential that you visit your eye care practitioner at a regular interval. Remember, taking care of your eyes now will prevent issues in the future and maintain your eyesight and visual acuity. 

Prepared to advance your contact lens care routine with Robin Hall Opticians? Please scroll through our expert tips and premium products designed to keep your eyes healthy and your lenses comfortable. Visit Robin Hall Opticians now and take the first step towards better lens care!