For many contact lens wearers, inserting and removing lenses is a daily routine that can sometimes lead to overlooked hygiene habits. Yet, strict adherence to proven guidelines is vital for eye health, whether you're a novice or a long-time user. Ophthalmologists at Solihull Hospital near Birmingham, England, learned this firsthand in November 2016 during a routine cataract surgery on a 67-year-old patient. Astonishingly, they discovered 27 contact lenses lodged in her eye. A 35-year veteran wearer, she had unknowingly layered new lenses over old ones, experiencing only mild discomfort. Thankfully, no severe infections developed, and her symptoms cleared after two weeks. This eye-opening case highlights the critical need for proper care. Here are five key rules endorsed by eye care experts.
Seeing an ophthalmologist is essential for your initial prescription. They assess your eyes and lifestyle to recommend the best lenses—soft or rigid, with appropriate wear periods like daily, bi-weekly, monthly, or annual. Prescriptions are valid for one year if under 16, or three years if over 16. Consult your doctor promptly if issues arise before expiration.
The golden rule: adhere strictly to your lenses' recommended lifespan. Monthly lenses aren't meant to last six weeks, even to save money—the risks to your eyes and vision far outweigh any savings. Discard and replace on time for safety.
Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses, whether inserting or removing them. Swap out lens cases regularly, using fresh ones provided with solutions. Never store lenses in tap water, even on trips or at events—discard them instead to avoid contamination.
Just as tap water poses risks, so does pool, lake, or ocean water. High contamination potential can lead to rapid infections. Remove lenses before swimming; if visibility is an issue, choose daily disposables for that day only.
Only use lenses specifically approved for overnight wear. Sleeping in standard lenses—even for a nap—deprives eyes of oxygen when eyelids close, risking serious infections.
These reminders from trusted eye experts can prevent mishaps. Share them with fellow wearers to keep vision safe!
