How Contact Lens Wearers Can Prevent Eye Infections

Contact lenses are a popular way to improve vision, but they can also lead to eye infections. At Innovative Eye Care, we want you to enjoy your contacts without any risks. Therefore, we've compiled five tips to help you avoid infections.

Keep Them Clean

One of the most crucial steps in preventing an eye infection is keeping your contact lenses clean. Wash your hands with mild soap before touching your contacts. Do not use tap water, as it contains bacteria and microorganisms. Use only the cleaning and disinfecting solution recommended by your optometry specialist. It is also essential to keep the tip of your solution bottle clean and clean your contact case regularly.

Rub While Cleaning

Many solutions recommend not to rub your contacts when cleaning, but studies show that rubbing helps keep them clean. Make sure your hands are clean before gently rubbing the solution over the lens with your finger to help loosen any bacteria and protein buildup.

Take Your Contacts Out

Just like your body, your eyes need oxygen. They don't get enough when covered by contacts all the time. Avoid sleeping in them, and take a break at least once a week by wearing your glasses instead. Even if you use extended-wear contacts, give your eyes a rest. If you don't like wearing glasses at work or school, take a break on the weekends or off days.

Keep Contacts Away from Water

As mentioned earlier, tap water and pool water contain microorganisms and chemicals, respectively. Therefore, swimming, showering, using a hot tub, or doing any water-related activities while wearing your contacts can invite trouble as anything in the water can become trapped between your eye and the contact.

Only Use Contacts for Specified Time

Regardless of the type of contacts, they are designed for a specific length of time. Wearing them longer than recommended can lead to vision problems and an eye infection. Therefore, strictly follow the recommendations for your specific contacts.

Visit Our Optometrist in Bakersfield, CA

Wearing contacts doesn’t have to automatically mean eye infections. Our team at Innovative Eye Care is here to help you keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear, regardless of your eyewear. Call (661) 213-3310 to schedule an appointment today.