Contact lenses offer unparalleled convenience and comfort for correcting vision. Discover how to care for them properly to ensure the health of your eyes and optimal vision with help from the top eye care professionals listed with Specialty Vision.
Contact lenses are thin, round lenses that gently rest on the surface of your eyes to help you see more clearly. They work by correcting refractive errors, conditions where the shape of your eye prevents light from focusing properly on your retina. With over 45 million wearers in the United States, contact lenses have become an essential tool for those seeking crisp vision without compromising an active lifestyle.
Contact lenses are thin, round lenses that gently rest on the surface of your eyes to help you see more clearly. They work by correcting refractive errors, conditions where the shape of your eye prevents light from focusing properly on your retina. With over 45 million wearers in the United States, contact lenses have become an essential tool for those seeking crisp vision without compromising an active lifestyle.
Contact lenses are medical devices specifically designed to address refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, age-related farsightedness (presbyopia), and astigmatism. As these errors occur when light does not land perfectly on your retina, contacts reposition the light path to help create clear, sharp images on your retina. Whether you choose to use contact lenses for cosmetic reasons or to complement an active lifestyle, they provide a flexible alternative to glasses, moving naturally with your eyes without falling off during daily activities.
It’s important to remember that while contact lenses offer excellent vision correction, they require careful handling and regular care to maintain the health of your eyes. Because they are medical devices, proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial to avoid complications such as eye infections. Our eye doctors emphasize that proper guidance and follow-up appointments are integral parts of a safe and successful contact lens experience.
Soft contact lenses are made of flexible plastic materials that conform to the shape of your eye. Because of their high oxygen permeability, many people find them highly comfortable and easy to adapt to within a few days of initial wear. However, their ability to easily absorb pollutants means that careful cleaning and handling are essential to avoid irritation or infection.
Also known as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, these lenses are manufactured from silicone polymers that allow oxygen to pass through to your cornea. With their durable nature, GP lenses maintain their shape better than soft lenses, often providing clearer vision for specific refractive errors. They may initially require an adaptation period as they are firmer, but many individuals find that the clarity they offer is worth the adjustment.
The decision to wear contacts on a daily or extended basis is one of the most significant choices you’ll make. Daily wear contacts are to be removed before sleeping, ensuring you give your eyes a break and lowering the risk of infection. In contrast, extended wear contacts can be safely worn throughout the day and night—up to 30 days continuously—with periodic breaks for your eyes to rehydrate and rest. However, extended wear does come with a slightly elevated risk of complications, so it is important that your eye care provider evaluates what is best for your eyes.
For soft contact lens users, the replacement schedule is a key factor in both safety and convenience. Daily disposable contacts are used once and then discarded, which can be a great option if you experience allergies or sensitive eyes. Alternatively, planned replacement contacts require cleaning and storage overnight and can be used repeatedly for up to 30 days, following your provider’s recommendations. Always avoid reusing daily disposables, as doing so increases the risk of irritation and infection.
Beyond the standard options, there are specialty lenses designed to accommodate various eye conditions and specific lifestyle requirements:
Begin with thoroughly washing and drying your hands using a soap that does not contain lotions or perfumes. This step prevents residue from transferring to your lenses. Here’s a straightforward approach to placing your lens on the eye:
With practice, this routine becomes more intuitive, helping you achieve the best vision correction with ease.
When it’s time to remove your contact lenses, following a careful process helps ensure the safety of your eyes:
Always handle your lenses with clean hands and avoid using your nails or rough surfaces that might scratch the lens material. With regular practice and a little patience, you will find the process becomes a natural part of your daily routine.
Before handling your lenses, always begin by washing your hands with a soap that does not leave any residue. Dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel to avoid transferring any particles to your lenses. When cleaning your contacts, make sure you use the recommended rinsing solution rather than water or saliva, as these can introduce harmful bacteria. Your provider will give you precise instructions on how to clean and store your lenses, so adhering to these guidelines is a must.
The lens case is as important as the lenses themselves. Over time, bacteria can accumulate inside a case, potentially contaminating your lenses. Replace your lens case regularly and avoid filling it with old solution. Each time you store your lenses, use fresh solution as directed by your provider. This routine minimizes the risk of eye infections and ensures your lenses remain safe for daily use.
One of the most important rules in contact lens care is to avoid any contact with water. Whether you’re washing your face, swimming, or in a hot tub, water can carry microscopic organisms that might cause eye infections. Removing your lenses before such activities is a simple yet crucial step in preventing complications. If you accidentally expose your contacts to water, consult your provider for the next steps.
Every contact lens comes with a specific wear schedule. Daily wear lenses should be removed before sleep, while extended wear lenses require regular monitoring. Your provider will advise you on how long you can safely wear your lenses and when to replace them. For instance, daily disposable contacts must be thrown away after each use, whereas planned replacement lenses are cleaned, stored overnight, and reused until the prescribed duration is reached. Banding your schedule and following these recommendations exactly can dramatically lower the risk of eye complications.
Microbial keratitis is a rare but serious infection of the cornea that can occur when lenses are worn too long or not cleaned properly. This condition is usually caused by tiny organisms such as amoebae entering the eye. If you experience severe pain, light sensitivity, or sudden blurry vision, it is crucial to contact your provider immediately. Early detection and treatment can prevent complications like significant vision loss or the need for surgical intervention.
A corneal abrasion is essentially a scratch on the surface of your eye. Although minor abrasions may heal on their own, a larger or infection-prone scratch can lead to further problems. If you notice sharp discomfort or persistent irritation, our eye doctors recommend you seek an evaluation to ensure proper healing.
CLARE is characterized by red, irritated eyes, which often occur if lenses are worn longer than prescribed or if there is improper cleaning. Typically, if you give your eyes a short period of rest from the contacts, the irritation subsides. However, recurring episodes may mean that your lens regimen needs to be re-evaluated by your provider.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment with a top optometrist ready to guide you in your contact lens journey. Your eyes deserve the best care!
GPC is an inflammatory condition of the inner eyelid that can develop from prolonged contact lens wear or poor lens hygiene. Symptoms include redness, irritation, and the formation of small bumps on the eyelid. In such cases, it might be necessary to stop wearing the lenses for several weeks and consult with your provider for appropriate treatment, which might include a change in the lens type or improved cleaning procedures.
If you are new to contact lenses, it is natural to have a long list of questions about the process. Many beginners wonder whether to insert contacts before or after applying makeup. Our eye doctors recommend that contacts should be inserted before any facial products are applied to reduce the risk of cosmetic residue getting trapped between the lens and the eye. This simple practice can enhance comfort and maintain clear vision throughout the day.
It is also a wise idea to carry a pair of your prescription glasses. In the event your contact lens tears or if you develop irritation while wearing them, keeping glasses nearby ensures you are never without clear vision. Changes in prescription over time are also normal, especially for younger individuals whose eyes continue to evolve or for those over 40 who may be experiencing age-related changes such as presbyopia. Regular follow-up appointments with our eye doctors are essential to ensure your prescription remains accurate and that your lenses continue to meet your vision needs.
Taking these steps each day not only optimizes your visual experience but also greatly reduces the likelihood of developing any of the serious complications associated with contact lens wear.
While contact lenses offer significant benefits, they also come with some inherent risks. By staying vigilant and following the care instructions outlined by our eye doctors, you can mitigate these risks effectively. Recognizing early symptoms such as pain or unusual redness can be critical. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your eye care provider for an evaluation:
These guidelines help empower you to take a proactive stance on maintaining eye health. In cases where complications occur, early treatment can protect your vision and prevent more severe issues such as corneal ulcers or even the need for a corneal transplant.
Ultimately, using contact lenses safely is about discipline and understanding your unique needs. Always adhere to the replacement schedule, whether you’re using daily disposable lenses or those with a planned replacement cycle. Be sure to handle your contacts with care, keeping them free from contaminants and replacing them as directed by your provider. Remember, contact lenses are not only designed to enhance your vision but also to seamlessly integrate with your day-to-day life—allowing you to enjoy sports, travel, and all the activities you love without the hindrance of heavy frames.
Moreover, as your eyes change over time and as you accumulate more hours of lens wear, periodic check-ups with our eye doctors are essential. These appointments provide a chance to discuss any discomfort, adjust your prescription if needed, and ensure that your contact lenses continue to be the best option for clear vision and eye health.
Understanding the details surrounding contact lenses—from types and proper care to managing complications—empowers you to take confident steps toward clear vision. Our eye doctors are here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your lens routine remains safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment with a top optometrist ready to guide you in your contact lens journey. Your eyes deserve the best care!
Contact lenses require proper care for clear vision and eye health. Consult a top optometrist listed with Specialty Vision for personalized advice.
