5 Contact Lens Mistakes to Avoid for Healthier Eyes

Many people choose contact lenses over glasses for various reasons. Some can’t deal with headaches associated with glasses, while others simply like the aesthetic of contact lenses.

Choosing contact lenses requires a bit more commitment than glasses due to the careful steps involved. Many people get contact lenses and make common mistakes, which can cause eye problems and irritation.

At Ophthalmology Associates of Bay Ridge, our four ophthalmologists offer contact lenses and tips to keep your eyes safe. They provide general eye exams and relief of contact issues like red or dry eyes.

The facts about contact lenses

According to the FDA, more than 45 million people in the United States wear contact lenses. They're so popular because they correct various vision issues and provide a sleek look many people want.

Two main types of contact lenses are:

Rigid

Rigid gas-permeable contact lenses are more durable than soft lenses. They're also much easier to handle and prevent buildup that soft contacts don't.

Soft

Soft contact lenses may be more comfortable for some, but they must be changed regularly to prevent infections or irritation. Beyond soft and rigid contacts, other subtypes include daily wear, disposable, and extended wear.

The biggest issue with contacts is the chance of an infection or injury to the eye. Contacts sit directly on the cornea, leading to damage without the proper hygiene and care. Knowing how to care for your contact lenses can help you avoid complications.

Five crucial mistakes to avoid

Many contact lens wearers make common mistakes that lead to eye infections or corneal ulcers. These issues usually clear up but sometimes cause other, more severe complications.

Our team offers specific contact lens care tips to help them avoid eye injuries. The most prevalent mistakes people make with contacts include the following:

1. Sleeping with contacts in

Your eyes need oxygen, which they do get during the day with contact lenses. However, when you sleep in them at night, oxygen can't get into your eyes, causing the cornea to swell and cloud your vision.

2. Not washing your hands

Every time you change your contacts, you must touch your eyes with your finger. It's easy to forget to wash your hands before handling contacts, but it may cause infections or conjunctivitis.

3. Forgetting to replace lens case

It's easy to forget to replace the instances your lenses sit in at night, but it's a major mistake many people make. The FDA suggests replacing the lens case at least every three months to avoid bacteria buildup and keep contacts clean and safe.

4. Reusing contact lens solution

In this case, you may be tempted to save a little money by frequently reusing contact lens solutions, but it's not a good idea. Topping off the solution only leads to issues in the eyes, including infection. Use fresh contact lens solution every day.

5. Showering and swimming with lenses in

It's tempting to leave your contacts in while swimming or showering, but it's a terrible mistake. Water often contains small amounts of bacteria trapped behind the lens, leading to irritation and infections. Never wear contact lenses in water.

Other tips for healthy eyes

It's crucial to take special care of your contact lenses to avoid infections and irritation of your eyes. For healthy eyes, follow these contact lens tips:

• Get the right lenses for your eyes
• Wash your hands regularly
• Watch for signs of irritation
• Always use fresh contact lens solution
• Replace lens case regularly

If you have irritation or suspect an infection, come in for treatment immediately. Letting it fester only leads to further complications and long-term issues with your eyes.

Call us at Ophthalmology Associates of Bay Ridge today to make an appointment for contact lenses, or visit our website to schedule an appointment with our team.