As an eye specialist, my primary concern is the health and well-being of your eyes. Contact lenses are a popular choice for vision correction, but there are some bad habits associated with their use that can lead to eye infections and other complications. In this article, we will explore these habits and why it is crucial to leave them behind for the sake of your ocular health.
Neglecting Proper Cleaning:
One of the most common bad contact lens habits is neglecting proper cleaning. While it’s common for lenses to fall out occasionally, reinserting them without cleaning is a major mistake. Dirty contact lenses can cause discomfort and, even worse, eye infections. Always ensure you clean your lenses with the appropriate solution before putting them back in.
Cleaning Contacts with Water:
Using water to clean your contact lenses, especially from a bathroom sink, is a grave error. Water doesn’t effectively clean your lenses, and it may contain various pathogens that can lead to eye infections. Always use the recommended cleaning solution for your contact lenses.
Showering or Swimming with Contacts:
Wearing contacts while showering or swimming is another habit that needs to be left behind. Water contains bacteria and fungi that can cause infections, and when you wear contacts in such conditions, you trap these pathogens against your eyes. Remove your contacts before exposing your eyes to water to minimize the risk.
Sleeping with Contacts:
Perhaps one of the most dangerous habits is sleeping with your contact lenses in. This practice significantly increases the risk of eye infections, raising it by six to eight times. Bacteria can thrive behind your lenses, and your eyes need time to breathe. When you sleep with your lenses, oxygen flow to your eyes is restricted, making them more susceptible to pathogens and bacteria.
Overextending Lens Use:
Contact lenses come with an expiration date for a reason. If you continue to wear them past this date, you’re inviting bacteria into your eyes. As lenses age, they become less effective and more likely to trap harmful microorganisms, putting your eyes at risk. Always follow the recommended usage guidelines.
In the world of eye care, preventing eye infections is a top priority. Bad contact lens habits, such as neglecting proper cleaning, using water to clean lenses, wearing contacts in the shower or while swimming, sleeping with contacts, and overextending lens use, can significantly increase the risk of eye infections. Taking care of your eyes and contact lenses involves not only maintaining the lenses but also being mindful of how you use them. By avoiding these bad habits, you can ensure the long-term health of your eyes and reduce the risk of eye infections. If you have any concerns or need more advice on how to protect your eyes, don’t hesitate to consult with an eye care professional. Your eyes are precious, and taking proper care of them is essential for a lifetime of clear and healthy vision.