If you visited your optometrist recently, you probably know about Contact Lens Week, which is on the 17th to the 21st of August. This is as good a time as any to discuss the best practices in terms of caring for your eyes and your contact lenses.
Estimates show up to 45 million Americans use contact lenses, but many of those who do wear these beneficial lenses might be at an increased risk of complications. These complications are the result of the improper care and wear of contact lenses.
To avoid becoming a statistic, it’s important to understand the best practices of contact lens wear and care, which in turn help you care for your eyes. Here are some of the steps you should remember:
Before wearing your contacts and before taking them out, always wash your hands thoroughly with a germicidal soap and water. In the absence of soap and water, if you must touch your contact lenses, use antibacterial alcohol or hand cleansing gel. Dry your hands properly. This will prevent you from transferring germs on your hands to your contacts and to your eyes.
Unless you wear disposables, it’s important to clean your contacts. Rinse and rub them carefully with clean fingers, then soak them overnight in the solution that your eye doctor recommends. Make sure they are soaked completely and covered. Use only the case that came with them, or a doctor recommended case.
Do not reuse your cleaning or soaking solution. Never make your own solution or replace it with hydrogen peroxide. Use only what the doctor prescribed, which is likely to be a multipurpose solution.
Store your contacts in the case that came with them. Clean the case every time you remove your contacts for wearing. Leave it open to dry in a safe place where it is not likely to be contaminated. Make sure to replace the case at least every three months.
Never use another person’s contacts or let someone else use your contact lenses, even if they’re family. Store your lenses where your kids cannot reach them.
If you have more questions about caring for your eyes, contact lenses, or eyeglasses, get in touch with Joel H McGahen OD. Call us today at (717) 264-4012 or refer to our Contact Us page to set an appointment. We are a member of Vision Source, a network of eye care professionals dedicated to being more focused, innovative, caring and trusted. We look forward to meeting you in Chambersburg, PA.