Hello vision seekers! If you’ve made the decision to wear contact lenses, then congratulations – you are about to embark on a life of clearer sight and convenience. However, the freedom from glasses comes with a fresh set of responsibilities. That’s right, we’re talking about the correct care and maintenance of your contact lenses.
Here, in our light-hearted, yet informative blog post, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of do’s and don’ts that will assist you on your clear-vision journey. Let’s jump right in, shall we?
DO’s
- **Do Keep your hands clean**: It’s important to wash and thoroughly air dry your hands or use a lint free towel before handling your contact lenses to avoid getting any dirt or bacteria on them. Clean lenses equals happy eyes!
- **Do Follow instructions**: Now, you would have been told specific instructions about how to use and care for your lenses. Stick to this like glue, if in doubt ask us!
- **Do Use the right solution**: The kind of solution you use to clean and store your lenses is critical. Avoid using tap water or saliva (yes, it happens!). Always opt for recommended contact lens solutions.
- **Do Have regular eye check-ups**: Regular eye examinations and contact lens aftercare appointments ensure your lenses are in good condition and your prescription is up-to-date. Early detection of potential issues is the best defence.
- **Do Give your eyes a break**: Your eyes need to breathe too. Wearing contacts every single day can tire your eyes out. Have a glasses day at least once a week where possible!
DON’Ts
- **Don’t sleep with contacts**: Unless we have told you that that your contacts are designed for overnight wear, avoid sleeping in your contacts. This can increase the risk of infections or ulcers, not to mention they’re more difficult to remove when they’re not designed for sleep wear.
- **Don’t wear contacts longer than suggested**: Contact lenses come with an expiry date, just like your favourite snack! Stick to it and remember to replace them as instructed.
- **Don’t ignore discomfort**: If you feel discomfort, such as redness, itchiness, or blurriness while wearing your lenses, remove them immediately. Don’t brush it off as a minor inconvenience – it could signal a more serious problem. Get in touch if you have any concerns. Alternatively contact another eye care professional or attend A+E if we are closed. Let us know what happened at the earliest convenient opportunity.
- **Don’t share contacts**: You wouldn’t share your toothbrush, would you? (If you would think of something more gross that you wouldn’t share) The same rule applies to contact lenses. Sharing contacts can easily spread eye diseases.
- **Don’t swim or shower with contacts**: Unless you are wearing waterproof goggles, avoid wearing contacts while swimming or taking a shower. Bacteria or organisms in the water can get stuck under the lens and cause infections.
Caring for your contacts can be simple when you know how to do it right. Follow our guide of Do’s and Don’ts and you are sure to have a successful contact lens experience. Happy viewing!
Please remember that these are general guidelines, and specific queries or issues should always be discussed. Keep those eyes sparkling!
