Tips for Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are a popular and convenient option for correcting vision without the need for glasses. However, proper care and usage are essential to ensure comfort, eye health, and optimal performance. Whether you’re a new contact lens wearer or have been using them for years, following best practices can help you get the most out of your lenses. In this blog post, we’ll share some valuable tips for contact lens wearers.

1. Choose the Right Type of Contact Lenses

Selecting the right type of contact lenses is crucial for comfort and vision correction. There are various types of lenses available, including daily disposables, bi-weekly or monthly disposables, and extended wear lenses. Your optometrist will help you choose the best option based on your lifestyle, eye health, and vision needs.

Types of Contact Lenses

• Daily Disposables: These lenses are worn for one day and then discarded. They are convenient and reduce the risk of infections since a fresh pair is used each day.
• Bi-Weekly/Monthly Disposables: These lenses are worn for two weeks or a month before being replaced. They require proper cleaning and storage.
• Extended Wear Lenses: Designed for continuous wear, including overnight, for up to a week or month. They should only be used if approved by your optometrist.

2. Follow Proper Hygiene Practices for Contact Lenses

Maintaining good hygiene is essential to prevent eye infections and other complications associated with contact lenses. Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses. Avoid using water or saliva to clean or store your lenses, as these can introduce harmful bacteria to your eyes.

Hygiene Tips

• Clean and Disinfect: Use only the recommended contact lens solution to clean and disinfect your lenses. Never reuse old solution.
• Storage: Store your lenses in a clean case with fresh solution every day. Replace the lens case every three months.
• Avoid Water: Keep lenses away from water, including swimming pools, hot tubs, and tap water. Water can contain microorganisms that cause infections.

For more tips on contact lens hygiene, check out this article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

3. Adhere to Contact Lenses Wearing Schedules

Following the recommended wearing schedule for your contact lenses is crucial to maintaining eye health. Overwearing lenses can lead to discomfort, dryness, and potential eye damage. Make sure to adhere to the schedule provided by your optometrist and never extend the wear beyond the recommended period.

Wearing Schedule Tips

• Daily Disposables: Discard after one day of use.
• Bi-Weekly/Monthly Lenses: Replace according to the prescribed schedule.
• Extended Wear Lenses: Follow the guidance of your optometrist and schedule regular check-ups.

4. Be Aware of Signs of Eye Problems

Regular monitoring of your eye health is essential when wearing contact lenses. Be aware of any signs of discomfort or changes in your vision. If you experience redness, pain, blurred vision, or excessive tearing, remove your lenses immediately and consult your optometrist.

Common Eye Problems

• Dry Eyes: Feeling of dryness or irritation, often alleviated by rewetting drops or artificial tears.
• Infections: Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and discharge. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an infection.
• Allergies: Itching and redness, often worsened by wearing lenses. Consult your optometrist for suitable options.

For more information on eye health and common problems, refer to this resource from the National Eye Institute (NEI).

5. Regular Eye Examinations

Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining eye health and ensuring that your contact lens prescription remains accurate. Schedule annual check-ups with your optometrist to monitor your eye health and make any necessary adjustments to your contact lens prescription.

Benefits of Regular Eye Exams

• Monitor Health: Detect early signs of eye conditions or changes in vision.
• Update Prescription: Ensure your lenses provide the best vision correction.
• Professional Advice: Receive guidance on proper lens care and usage.

Why Choose Plaza Vision Optometry?

At Plaza Vision Optometry, we are committed to providing comprehensive eye care services to residents of Monrovia, CA. Our experienced optometrists offer personalized contact lens fittings, routine eye exams, and expert advice on maintaining eye health. We use the latest technology to ensure accurate prescriptions and optimal lens performance.

Contact Plaza Vision Optometry today to schedule an appointment and experience the benefits of professional eye care. Trust us to help you achieve clear vision and maintain healthy eyes.