Contact lenses can be both a blessing and a curse. While they offer freedom from the hassle of wearing and losing 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, hygiene is crucial. It is essential to keep the storage case of the contact lens clean and disinfected to prevent 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 in it.
Additionally, it is vital to avoid exposing your eyes to dirty hands while wearing contact lenses. Our hands come into contact with various germs and dirty surfaces throughout the day, so always remember to clean your hands before touching your eyes or the lens.
Furthermore, it is advisable to avoid swimming with contact lenses on, as swimming pools can be a breeding ground for infections. Similarly, using tap water while rinsing your face or taking a shower should be avoided when wearing lenses, as it can lead to infections and micro-abrasions on the lens.
Taking off your contact lenses before sleeping is another important precaution. When our eyes are closed during sleep, the cornea is deprived of oxygen from the air, increasing the risk of eye infection, blurred vision, swelling, and eye pain.
If your eyes feel dry, itchy, red, or irritated, it is best to completely avoid wearing contact lenses as these symptoms may indicate an eye infection.
Overwearing contact lenses beyond the recommended duration can cause corneal injury and keratitis. Therefore, it is crucial to follow your eye specialist’s instructions regarding the duration of lens usage.
Regularly replacing your contact lenses is essential to prevent chronic eye infections and irritation. Additionally, cleaning your lenses regularly is crucial to avoid the buildup of proteins, dust, and microbes, which can lead to eye infections and chronic problems.
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 important to seek immediate medical attention from your eye doctor.
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