Woman putting in contact lenses in Iowa

August 21, 2020

It's Contact Lens Health Week!

When it comes to wearing contacts, proper care and contact lens hygiene are a must. Millions of people wear contact lenses everyday according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has organized Contact Lens Health Week as an awareness to promote healthy contact lens wear and care. This year’s campaign theme is “Road to 2020 Vision Begins with Contact Lens Health.” By adopting these healthy habits and following the tips listed below you can reduce the chances of developing an eye infection from wearing contacts.

Healthy Habits for Contact Hygiene

  • Wash your hands with soap, water and towel dry with a lint-free towel before touching your contact lens!

  • Always make sure to take your contacts out before sleeping— don’t sleep with your contacts in!

  • When storing your contacts, dump out the old solution and use new solution each time. Do NOT use water!

  • When swimming, hot tubing, or showering take your contacts out.

  • Replace your contact storage case every three months, or sooner if it gets damaged.

Eye Infections

Some eye infections caused by contacts can cause corneal injuries, serious vision loss or even blindness. Contact lenses that do not fit properly or are over worn may scratch your cornea causing temporary or even permanent damage. The most common eye infection from contacts is Keratitis, which causes the cornea to become infected. This infection can scar the cornea causing your vision to be affected. Some other types of symptoms from contacts lens related issues can cause pain in the eye, excessive tearing or discharge, redness, sensitivity to light, to even feeling like there is something in your eye. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your eye doctor immediately.

Take Care of your Eyes

Contacts are a great way to correct your vision when cared for properly. It is important to schedule regular eye exams with your optometrist and to make sure your contacts prescription is up to date. By following the healthy habits and caring for them properly you can reduce the chances of developing an eye infection. You only have one set of eyes, take care of them!

 

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