Tips for Safe and Comfortable Contact Lens Wear

Contact lenses are a convenient and effective way to improve your vision, offering clear sight without the bulk of glasses. Whether you are new to contact lenses or have been wearing them for years, proper care and wear are key to maintaining eye health and comfort. At Bogey Hills Vision Center, we want to make sure you are getting the most out of your lenses without risking your eye health. Here are some helpful tips to ensure safe and comfortable contact lens wear every day.
 

Always Wash and Dry Your Hands First

Before handling your contact lenses, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring dirt or bacteria to your eyes. This small step can go a long way in preventing eye infections.
 

Never Sleep in Your Lenses

Unless your lenses are specifically approved for overnight wear, always remove them before bed. Sleeping in contact lenses reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes, which can lead to discomfort and increase the risk of corneal ulcers.
 

Use Fresh Contact Lens Solution

Always use fresh solution when storing your lenses. Never top off old solution in your case, as this can dilute the disinfecting properties and lead to harmful bacterial growth. It's important to use the type of solution recommended by your eye care provider, as not all formulas are compatible with every lens type.
 

Keep Your Lens Case Clean

Your contact lens case can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned and maintained properly. Rinse your lens case with fresh contact lens solution every day, never with tap water, and let it air dry with the caps off and the case face down on a clean tissue. Replace your case every one to three months, even if it looks clean.
 

Avoid Water Exposure

Never rinse or store your contact lenses in tap water, and be sure to remove them before swimming, showering, or using a hot tub. Water from any source, including tap or lake water, can contain harmful microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba, which can lead to serious eye infections.
 

Replace Your Lenses as Directed

Even if your lenses still feel comfortable or look clean, they need to be replaced according to the schedule given by your optometrist. Daily, biweekly, and monthly lenses are designed to be worn only for a specific amount of time. Extending their use can cause buildup of protein deposits and debris, reducing oxygen flow to your cornea. This can lead to dryness, irritation, inflammation, and a higher risk of infection.
 

Why You Should Never Skip Your Annual Contact Lens Exam

Many people assume that if their lenses feel fine, there’s no need for an exam. However, skipping your annual contact lens evaluation can put your eyes at risk. During this visit, your optometrist checks the fit of your lenses, examines your corneal health, and ensures your prescription is still accurate. Contact lenses can change how your eyes breathe and interact with their environment. Without proper monitoring, issues like corneal swelling or dry eye can develop silently and worsen over time. Regular exams also allow your doctor to recommend new lens technologies that might provide even greater comfort or visual clarity.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Today

Wearing contact lenses can be a safe and convenient option when proper hygiene and care are practiced. By following these simple tips and attending your annual contact lens exams, you can enjoy clear and comfortable vision while protecting your eyes from avoidable issues.
 

If it has been over a year since your last contact lens exam or you are experiencing discomfort with your lenses, schedule an eye exam with Bogey Hills Vision for expert care and personalized recommendations. Contact our office in Saint Charles, Missouri, by calling (636)-946-1176 to book an appointment today.