Gone are the days when those suffering from impaired vision were confined to the use of bulky glasses. Since the advent of contact lenses, vision can be accommodated discreetly and comfortably. While the convenience and style contact lenses offer make it worth the investment, the lenses can irritate the eye if not used properly. However, by following a few simple tips, eye health can be maintained while taking advantage of the aid contacts offer.
When first prescribed, the ophthalmologist will guide the patient toward proper contact use and care. The trouble is, most people do not remember exactly how they were told to use their lenses and begin to take shortcuts in the way they use their lenses. This can lead to irritation and infection.
The length of time contact lenses can be safely left in varies depending on the type of lens being used. For example, extended wear and some gas permeable lenses are the only ones that are able to be used overnight. Still, there is a chance of irritation if any contact lens is worn to bed. A good rule of thumb to ensure eye health is to remove contact lenses before bed or when not in use, and having a pair of glasses readily available at all times makes this easier to achieve.
Another time when contact lenses should be removed is during swimming. Chlorine and dirt in the water can dry on the lens and could lead to irritation. In the event that lenses must be worn during swimming, they should be carefully sanitized immediately following.
Many contact users have implemented the use of
daily contact lenses. With the daily lens option, wearers use a brand new set of lenses every day as opposed to lenses that are used for months before disposing. Daily contact lenses promote hygiene as any germs or infectious bacteria are regularly eliminated.
Some associate daily disposables with high cost; however, the cost is less than most expect and is well worth the investment considering the hygiene and health promotion this option has to offer. Some are surprised when they find that daily disposables normally cost around a dollar per day. Furthermore, considering the money saved on lens cleaning solution, daily disposables can prove more efficient than extended wear contact lenses in the long run.
Contact wearers often complain of dry eyes, and this condition can be an uncomfortable one to deal with. It is a good idea to remove contacts when they cause this type of irritation to allow natural tearing to hydrate the eyes and avoid damage.
Creating a replacement schedule specific to the wearer's eyes is crucial in ensuring eye health. For example, allergy sufferers will find it beneficial to increase replacement intervals to reduce irritation. Also, individuals who produce proteins and lipids at a higher-than-average rate will also benefit by replacing lenses more often.
Perhaps the most important step in maintaining eye health with contact lens use is to regularly visit the eye doctor to make sure there are no problems in the making associated with contact use. Doctors can detect potential complications before symptoms manifest and can prevent future visual impediments.
It is possible that a doctor visit may be necessary in between regular appointments. In the event of persistent irritation, redness or any other debilitating symptoms, it is crucial to the wearer's overall eye health to seek professional help as soon as possible.
