Switching over from glasses to contact lenses is a perfect option for those who want to alter their vision as well as enhance their appearance. But, lenses require proper care and supervision. To avoid the fundamental problems that new lens wearers experience, you should follow certain guidelines to ensure safety and health of your precious eyes.
Caring for your lenses
* Lenses are disposable but not your eyes. So, take utmost care of hygiene. Make sure that your hands are free from any contaminants or dust. Don't use any lotion or cream prior to placing the lenses in your eyes. Your hands should be moist but not wet.
* Do not blink while placing the contact lenses.
* Remove the lenses using your thumb and index finger. Immediately rinse them using a good quality lens care solution.
* Never ever sleep with your lenses on even if they are the 'extended wear' contacts. If it happens accidentally, put eye drops in your eyes to moisten them before removing.
* Avoid using nails when handling your delicate lenses to minimize the risk of any sort of infection or tearing of the lens.
* In case the lens comes in contact with some debris, slide your lenses and then roll your eyes by looking sideways.
* If you experience irritation or discomfort in your eyes, immediately check with an eye specialist. It's better to rectify it at an initial stage before it turns into a serious complication.
* Strictly follow the schedule prescribed by your doctor to wear the lenses. For instance, your doctor might have asked you to remove your lenses after 7-8 hours.
* If you feel dryness in your eyes, use a re-wetting solution to lubricate them.
* Get your contact lens prescription checked from your doctor annually.
Additional Warnings
* To avoid extreme possibilities of infection, clean your lens case regularly. It is equally prone to contamination as lenses if exposed to dirt or debris. Replace it every six months.
* Don't use saliva or tap water to rinse your lenses. Always use FDA approved solutions for eye care and never try to reuse any solution because compromising on the quality of the solution can result into severe outcomes.
* Don't try to wear daily wear lenses as extended wear lenses, as it can damage the cornea either temporarily or permanently.
* Put your lenses before applying makeup to avoid any contamination.
* It is highly advisable not to share your lenses with someone. Same pattern should be followed while removing them.
* It is recommended to wear sunglasses when out in sun because contact lenses make the eyes more sensitive to sun.
|
