Caring for Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are a medical device that require a prescription and special care by both the wearer and the prescriber.  Because the contact lens sits directly on the eye, it provides good vision, but can cause a series of long-lasting problems if not cared for properly.

So you have had your eye exam and been fitted for contacts.  You successfully completed the insertion and removal class and you feel pretty confident in your new skill set.  Now you are home and trying to remember everything you were taught about caring for your contact lenses.

Some important things to remember:

1. ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS wash your hands before handling your contact lenses.  Just think about all the things that you touch throughout the day and how many germs you encounter.  It is imperative that you have clean hands when inserting and removing your contact lenses to prevent infections.
2. Make sure you use fresh solution every time you clean and store your contact lenses. Using the same solution makes it possible for bacteria to collect in your case and the solution and you can transfer that bacteria right to your eye.
3. Always change your lenses as directed by your eye care professional. Some lenses are to be disposed of daily, some every two weeks, and others every month.  Wearing lenses longer than prescribed can lead to sight-threatening conditions.
4. It is recommended to not sleep in your lenses.
5. Remember that because contact lenses are a medical device, the prescription is only good for one year, so make sure you schedule your yearly eye exam with your optometrist.

Dr. Katherine Marshall, OD

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