Contact lenses offer a practical substitute for traditional glasses, offering clear vision without sacrificing style. However, maintaining proper care and hygiene is essential to ensure optimal eye health and comfort.
Optica Nova recommends that contact lenses be chosen only after a thorough eye exam. We offer a range of quality, affordable contact lenses to suit various needs. If you’ve recently purchased contact lenses to enhance your vision and appearance, this guide will provide essential dos and don’ts for maintaining your lenses. For personalized care advice and recommendations, consult an optometrist in Barrie.
Dos for Contact Lens Care
1. Wash and Dry Your Hands Thoroughly
Before handling your contact lenses, it is vital to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This simple habit helps prevent the transfer of dirt or bacteria to your eyes, reducing the risk of infection.
2. Follow the Recommended Replacement Schedule
Adhering to the recommended replacement schedule for your lenses is crucial. Whether you have daily disposables, bi-weekly, monthly, or extended-wear lenses, make sure to replace them as directed to avoid potential problems.
3. Clean and Disinfect Regularly
Proper cleaning and disinfecting of your contact lenses are essential for eye health. Ensure you clean and disinfect your lenses thoroughly by using the recommended contact lens solution. Gently rub and rinse them with the solution before wearing them to ensure they are free of contaminants.
4. Store Lenses Properly
Contact lenses require special care. Always store them in a clean, dry case designed specifically for contact lenses. Proper storage preserves the integrity of the lenses and prevents contamination.
5. Keep an Extra Pair
It’s a good idea to keep an extra pair of contact lenses on hand in case you lose one. Additionally, having a pair of backup spectacles can provide your eyes with a break from contact lenses when needed.
Don’ts for Contact Lens Care
1. Avoid Sleeping in Your Lenses
Never sleep with contact lenses in, as it restricts oxygen flow to your eyes and heightens the risk of infection. Permanently remove your lenses before going to bed to protect your eye health and minimize potential complications.
2. Say No to Tap Water
Avoid rinsing your contact lenses with tap water. Always use contact lens solution for cleaning and rinsing to prevent contamination from microorganisms or bacteria, which can lead to eye infections. Proper use of the correct solution ensures the safety and health of your eyes.
3. Reuse or Top-Off Solution
Do not reuse or top off old contact lens solutions. Always discard the used solution and use fresh solution each time you store your lenses to ensure they remain clean and safe.
4. Avoid Swimming or Bathing
Refrain from swimming or bathing while wearing contact lenses. Water can contain bacteria and other impurities that might lead to eye infections. Permanently remove your lenses before engaging in water-related activities.
5. Don’t Wear During Red Eye
If you experience redness, dryness, or irritation in your eyes, avoid wearing your contact lenses. Continuing to wear them can exacerbate the issue and lead to further discomfort or complications.
Conclusion:
At Optica Nova, we emphasize the importance of proper contact lens care to maintain clear vision and eye health. Implementing these suggestions can lower the likelihood of complications and enhance your overall comfort with contact lenses. For personalized advice and recommendations, don’t hesitate to contact an optometrist in Barrie.