Contact lenses can be both a blessing and a curse. While they offer freedom from the hassle of glasses, they also pose a risk of infection if proper hygiene is not maintained, especially during the monsoon season. Dr. Neeraj Sanduja, an ophthalmologist and eye surgeon, emphasizes the importance of following certain measures for contact lens wearers.
First and foremost, maintaining hygiene is crucial. It is essential to keep the storage case of the contact lens clean and disinfected. This prevents eye infections when reusing the lenses. Dr. Sanduja advises cleaning the lens case with warm soapy water and thoroughly drying it at least once a week before placing the lenses inside.
Another important aspect is keeping your hands clean. It is vital to avoid exposing your eyes to dirty hands while wearing contact lenses. Throughout the day, our hands come into contact with various germs and dirty surfaces. Therefore, always make sure to clean your hands before touching your eyes or the lenses.
Additionally, it is advisable to avoid swimming with contact lenses on. Swimming pools are breeding grounds for infections, and exposing your lenses to pool water can lead to infections and micro-abrasions on the lenses. Similarly, tap water should be avoided while rinsing your face or taking a shower if you have your lenses on.
Taking off your contact lenses before sleeping is crucial. When your eyes are closed during sleep, the cornea is deprived of oxygen from the air, increasing the risk of eye infections. Leaving your lenses in overnight can result in blurred vision, swelling, and eye pain.
If your eyes feel dry, itchy, red, or irritated, it is essential to completely avoid wearing contact lenses. These symptoms may indicate an eye infection, and it is crucial to seek medical attention.
Overwearing contact lenses beyond the recommended duration can lead to corneal injury and keratitis. Therefore, it is important to follow your eye specialist’s instructions and replace your lenses at regular intervals to prevent chronic eye infections and irritation.
Regular cleaning of your lenses is also necessary. Failure to do so can result in a buildup of proteins, dust, and microbes on the lens, leading to eye infections and chronic problems like papillary conjunctivitis.
While wearing contact lenses, it is advisable to avoid using eye makeup. If any cosmetic product or face cream comes into contact with the lens, remove the lens and thoroughly wash your eyes.
In case of any irritation or infection while using contact lenses, it is crucial to contact your eye doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Remember to prioritize your eye health and follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and comfortable experience with contact lenses.