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Contact lenses can make everyday life simpler, from working at your desk to heading out for the weekend. But good vision starts with good habits.
Because contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eyes, how you handle, clean, and store them matters. A simple routine can help keep your lenses comfortable and reduce the risk of eye infections.
Always Start With Clean Hands
Before touching your contact lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them completely with a clean towel.
It may seem like a small step, but your fingers come into direct contact with your lenses and your eyes. Keeping your hands clean helps prevent dirt, oils, and germs from getting onto your lenses.
Try to make hand washing the first step every time you put in or remove your contacts.
Use the Right Contact Lens Solution
Your contact lens solution is designed specifically for cleaning, disinfecting, rinsing, or storing your lenses, depending on the type of solution you use.
Always follow the instructions from your eye care professional and the solution manufacturer.
If you use a multipurpose solution, rub and rinse your lenses as directed before storing them in fresh solution. Never reuse old solution or simply add new solution to what is already in the case.
Different lens types and care systems can require different routines, so don't assume that one solution works for every type of contact lens.
Keep Your Contacts Away From Water
Water and contact lenses don't mix.
Remove your lenses before showering, swimming, or using a hot tub. Tap water, swimming pools, lakes, and other water sources can contain microorganisms that may cause serious eye infections.
Never rinse or store your contact lenses in water, and never use saliva to wet them.
If you regularly swim or take part in water activities, ask your eye care professional about suitable alternatives, such as prescription goggles.
Don't Sleep in Your Contacts Unless You're Told To
Most contact lenses are designed to be removed before sleeping.
Sleeping in lenses that aren't approved for overnight wear can increase the risk of serious eye infections. Even if your lenses feel comfortable, follow the wearing schedule prescribed for your specific lenses.
If you have lenses designed for extended wear, discuss overnight use with your eye care professional rather than assuming they're suitable for you.
Look After Your Contact Lens Case
Your lens case is part of your contact lens routine too.
After removing your lenses, clean and rinse the case with fresh contact lens solution as directed. Empty the remaining solution and allow the case to air dry.
Never clean your lens case with tap water, and don't "top off" old solution with fresh solution.
Replacing your lens case regularly is also important. The CDC recommends replacing it at least every three months, or as advised by your eye care professional.
Follow Your Replacement Schedule
Not all contact lenses are replaced on the same schedule.
Daily disposable lenses are designed to be used once and discarded. Other lenses may be replaced every few weeks or months, depending on the product.
Don't extend the life of your lenses simply because they still look or feel fine. Follow the replacement schedule provided for your specific lenses.
If you're unsure when your lenses should be replaced, check the product instructions or ask your eye care professional.
Give Your Eyes a Break When You Need One
Sometimes the best thing you can do for your eyes is take your lenses out.
Keep a pair of prescription glasses available for situations when your eyes feel tired, irritated, or uncomfortable. Having a backup pair also makes it easier to remove your contacts when you need to.
If your lenses become uncomfortable, remove them rather than trying to push through the discomfort.
Know When to Get Help
Contact lens discomfort shouldn't be ignored.
Remove your lenses and contact an eye care professional if you experience symptoms such as unusual redness, pain, swelling, blurred vision, or persistent irritation.
Some symptoms can indicate an infection or another eye problem that needs prompt attention.
A Simple Contact Lens Routine
Good contact lens care doesn't need to be complicated.
Before wearing:
Wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses.
When cleaning:
Use the recommended solution and follow the care instructions for your lenses.
When storing:
Use fresh solution and never reuse what's already in the case.
Around water:
Remove your contacts before showering, swimming, or using a hot tub.
Before sleeping:
Remove your lenses unless your eye care professional has specifically approved overnight wear.
When replacing:
Follow the replacement schedule for your specific lenses.
Small habits make a difference. With the right routine, you can keep your lenses comfortable and make contact lens care a simple part of your everyday life.
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