2024-07-13
Contact Lens Do’s and Don’ts: Best Practices for Healthy Lens Wear
As an optometrist with years of experience fitting and monitoring contact lens wearers, I’ve seen it all. And the single biggest difference between those who thrive with contact lenses and those who struggle isn’t the lens type – it’s consistently following best practices. This isn't just about avoiding discomfort; it’s about protecting your long-term eye health. Many people underestimate how critical proper contact lens care is, and I aim to give you the detailed guidance you need to keep your eyes healthy and seeing clearly.
What’s the Biggest Mistake Contact Lens Wearers Make?
Honestly? It’s often ignoring early warning signs. A little redness, mild discomfort, or slightly blurry vision – these aren’t things to “push through.” Your eyes are telling you something is wrong. Many people think a little irritation is normal, especially at the end of the day, but it almost always indicates a problem, even a small one. Ignoring these signals can lead to more serious issues like corneal ulcers, which require immediate medical attention. We see a lot of patients from Okotoks and surrounding areas who’ve waited too long to address these minor symptoms.
What Type of Contact Lens Solution Should I Be Using?
This is a surprisingly complex question. Multi-purpose solutions are the most popular because of convenience, but they aren't always the best for everyone. Here’s a breakdown:
- Multi-Purpose Solutions: These clean, disinfect, rinse, and store lenses. They’re fine for most people, but they contain preservatives that can irritate sensitive eyes. Look for preservative-free options if you experience dryness or discomfort.
- Hydrogen Peroxide Solutions: These require a neutralizer and a longer soak time (usually 6 hours). They're excellent for protein removal and are often recommended for those with allergies or sensitive eyes. Crucially, never rinse lenses with hydrogen peroxide solution directly – it will cause severe damage.
- Saline Solutions: These are used for rinsing only and cannot disinfect. They're good for a final rinse before insertion or to flush debris from a lens, but always follow with a disinfecting solution.
The “best” solution depends on your lens material, your tear film, and your individual sensitivity. We can help determine the best fit during your contact lens exam.
How Often Should I Replace My Contact Lens Case?
This is a massively overlooked detail! Your contact lens case isn’t a lifetime item. Think of it like a toothbrush – it accumulates bacteria and biofilm. Replace your case every month, no exceptions. Even if you diligently clean it, bacteria can hide in tiny crevices. Rinse the case with solution (never tap water!) after each use and allow it to air dry completely. Many cases also have a small lip or groove where biofilm loves to build up; pay attention to that area when cleaning.
Can I Sleep in My Contact Lenses?
This is a common question, and the answer is…it depends. Historically, sleeping in lenses was strongly discouraged. Now, there are lenses specifically designed for extended wear – typically silicone hydrogel materials with higher oxygen permeability. However, even with these lenses, the risk of infection increases significantly with overnight wear.
Here's what most people don't realize: Even if a lens is approved for extended wear, it doesn't mean it's risk-free. The American Optometric Association recommends removing lenses every night whenever possible, even if they are approved for extended wear. If you do sleep in your lenses, it's essential to follow your optometrist's instructions carefully and to monitor your eyes for any signs of irritation. We often recommend a ‘planned rest’ period – removing lenses for a full day each week to give your eyes a break.
What Should I Do if My Lens Feels Uncomfortable?
First, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Remove the lens immediately.
- Check the lens for damage. Look for tears, rips, or debris. Discard it if you find any.
- Inspect your eye. Look for redness, swelling, or a foreign body.
- If the discomfort persists after removing the lens and your eye appears normal, wait at least a few hours before trying a fresh lens. If it still feels uncomfortable, contact us.
- If you experience severe pain, vision changes, or excessive tearing, seek immediate medical attention.
Attempting to “power through” discomfort can lead to serious complications. It’s always better to be cautious.
How Can I Tell if My Contact Lenses are Inside Out?
This happens to everyone at some point! Silicone hydrogel lenses can be particularly tricky because the edges feel similar on both sides. Here are a few ways to check:
- The “Taco Test”: Gently pinch the lens between your thumb and forefinger. If the edges flare outwards (like a taco shell), it's inside out. If they curve inwards, it's the correct way.
- The Edge Appearance: Look at the edge of the lens. The edge should look smooth and rounded when viewed from above. If it looks like a little lip or rim, it's inside out.
- Comfort: If the lens feels uncomfortable or doesn’t settle properly on your eye, it’s likely inside out.
Wearing a lens inside out isn’t usually harmful, but it can cause irritation and blurry vision. Always double-check before inserting.
What About Makeup and Contact Lenses?
Makeup and contacts can co-exist, but you need to be careful.
- Apply makeup after inserting your lenses. This minimizes the risk of getting makeup on the lenses.
- Avoid oil-based makeup near your eyes. Oil can transfer to your lenses and cause discomfort or blurry vision.
- Use waterproof or smudge-proof makeup.
- Remove makeup carefully at the end of the day. Avoid rubbing your eyes vigorously.
- Never use mascara if you suspect an eye infection.
How Often Should I Have My Eyes Examined While Wearing Contact Lenses?
Even if your vision seems stable, you should have a comprehensive eye exam – including a contact lens fitting assessment – at least once a year. We need to check the health of your cornea, ensure the lenses are still fitting properly, and assess for any signs of complications. For some individuals, especially those with certain medical conditions or wearing lenses continuously, more frequent check-ups may be necessary.
The cost of an annual contact lens exam in 2026 is generally between $120-$180, depending on the complexity of the assessment. Investing in regular checkups is a small price to pay for preserving your vision.
Taking care of your contact lenses is an ongoing process. It requires diligence, attention to detail, and a willingness to listen to your eyes. By following these best practices, you can enjoy the convenience and benefits of contact lenses while protecting your long-term eye health.