Do you wear contact lenses? Follow these dos and don’ts to save yourself from corneal damage

Contact lenses can correct vision problems, treat eye conditions, protect the eye, assist in eye exams, enhance appearance, and provide vision correction for specific jobs. However, proper care is essential to avoid complications (Image: Canva)

Contact lenses are vital for people who  aim to correct their vision and address corneal irregularities. These devices are worn on the front surface of the eye to substitute for the cornea's surface and correct refractive errors. These lenses come in a variety of forms, including soft, hard, and rigid gas permeable lenses. Each type has unique properties and benefits, making it suitable for different needs and preferences.

Contact lenses can correct vision problems, treat eye conditions, protect the eye, assist in eye exams, enhance appearance, and provide vision correction for specific jobs. However, proper care is essential to avoid complications. According to Dr Smit M Bavariya, Cataract Surgeon, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital, Wadala, wearing contact lenses can be safe and effective if proper care is taken.

Dr Bavariya shares some essential do's and don'ts to avoid corneal damage:
Do's

• Follow the guidelines provided by your eye doctor regarding wearing and caring for your lenses.
• Always wash your hands with soap and water before holding your lenses.
• Clean and store your lenses in fresh contact lens solution every time. Never reuse the solution.
• Rinse your lens case with fresh solution and leave it open to dry after each use. Replace the case every three months.
• Unless they are specifically designed for overnight wear, always remove your lenses before going to bed.
• Ensure your lenses fit well and your eyes are healthy by scheduling regular eye exams.
• Follow the replacement schedule recommended by your eye care professional, whether it's daily, bi-weekly, or monthly.
• Use rewetting drops if you experience dryness or discomfort.
• Give your eyes a break from lenses periodically to reduce the risk of complications.

• Do not expose your lenses to water, including tap water, swimming pools, hot tubs, or showers.
• Don't sleep in lenses. Unless prescribed for overnight wear, sleeping in lenses increases the risk of eye infections.
• Avoid touching eyes with dirty hands. This can transfer bacteria to your lenses and eyes.
• Don't overwear lenses. Stick to the prescribed wearing schedule and avoid wearing them longer than recommended.
• Avoid using old solution. Never top off old solution in your lens case. Always use fresh solution.
• Don't ignore discomfort. If you experience persistent discomfort, redness, or vision changes, remove your lenses and consult your eye care professional.
• Avoid using expired lenses or solutions. Check the expiry dates and avoid using expired products.
• Don't share lenses. Sharing contact lenses can transfer bacteria and cause infections.
• Avoid wearing lenses during illness. If you have a cold, flu, or eye infection, avoid wearing your lenses until you're better.