At Clarity Eye Group in Huntington and Newport Beach, we understand the convenience and visual freedom that contact lenses can offer to our patients. However, improper contact lens care can expose wearers to a variety of eye conditions, some of which can cause serious damage if left untreated. In this blog, our team of eye specialists explore the common eye issues associated with poor contact lens hygiene and how you can avoid them to maintain optimal eye health.
The Importance of Proper Contact Lens Hygiene
Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eyes and require meticulous care to prevent infections and other eye conditions. When lens care guidelines are ignored, such as sleeping in lenses not designed for overnight wear or using expired contact solution, it creates an environment ripe for bacteria, viruses, and fungi to thrive.
Common Eye Conditions from Poor Contact Lens Hygiene
- Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This infection can be bacterial or viral. Contact lens wearers are particularly at risk if they handle their lenses with unclean hands or reuse or top off contact lens solution.
- Corneal Ulcers: These are open sores on the outer layer of the cornea and are often caused by bacteria. Severe cases can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly. Risk factors include wearing contact lenses overnight and poor lens hygiene.
- Keratitis: This is an inflammation of the cornea that can be triggered by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Non-compliant contact lens wear, such as using water instead of sterile solution to clean lenses, significantly increases this risk.
- Acanthamoeba Keratitis: Although rare, this serious infection is caused by a protozoan found in water, including tap water, swimming pools, and hot tubs. Using water instead of contact lens solution to store or clean lenses can lead to this condition, which is difficult to treat and potentially blinding.
Preventing Eye Conditions as a Contact Lens User
- Follow Proper Lens Care Instructions: Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses. Use only sterile products recommended by your eye care professional to clean and store lenses, and ensure you replace your contact lens case every three months.
- Avoid Water Contact: Never rinse or store contact lenses in water. Always use fresh contact lens solution for rinsing and storing lenses.
- Do Not Overwear Lenses: Replace your contact lenses as recommended by your eye care professional and never wear them beyond the prescribed period.
- Attend Regular Eye Exams: Regular check-ups can catch and address any lens-related issues before they develop into serious problems.
Schedule Your Next Eye Exam Today
If you wear contact lenses or are considering them, let Clarity Eye Group ensure your eyes are protected and healthy. Contact us at 714-842-0651 to book an appointment to get the perfect contacts and review the guidelines for keeping your eye safe. And, if an emergency does arise related to wearing contact lenses, our talented eye doctors can help to address the problem promptly.