Prescription colored contacts are a popular way to enhance vision while adding a stylish twist to your eye color. However, as with any contact lenses, they come with the responsibility of proper care to avoid potential eye infections. Ensuring that you maintain rigorous hygiene and follow recommended practices is essential for keeping your eyes healthy and your lenses safe. Here are some crucial tips for avoiding eye infections while wearing prescription colored contacts.
Understanding the Risks
Wearing prescription colored contacts can increase the risk of eye infections if not handled properly. Infections can result from bacteria, fungi, or other pathogens that may thrive on dirty or improperly stored lenses. Common eye infections include conjunctivitis (pink eye), keratitis (corneal infection), and blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids). Proper lens care and hygiene are essential to minimize these risks.
Daily Hygiene Practices
Maintaining strict hygiene practices is key to preventing eye infections:
- Wash Your Hands
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your lenses. Use a lint-free towel to dry your hands, as residue from towels can transfer to your lenses. Clean hands help prevent the introduction of bacteria and other contaminants to your lenses and eyes. - Use the Correct Cleaning Solution
Only use contact lens solutions recommended by your eye care professional. Avoid using tap water or saliva to clean your lenses, as these can contain harmful microorganisms. Choose solutions specifically designed for cleaning and disinfecting contact lenses, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. - Clean and Store Lenses Properly
Clean your lenses daily to remove any debris, protein buildup, or contaminants. Apply a few drops of the cleaning solution to each lens and gently rub it with your fingertips. Rinse the lens thoroughly before storing it in a clean contact lens case filled with fresh solution. Never reuse old solution, as it can harbor bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
Proper Lens Handling
Handling your lenses with care is crucial to maintaining their cleanliness and preventing infections: - Avoid Touching Your Eyes
Minimize touching your eyes and lenses throughout the day to reduce the risk of transferring bacteria from your hands to your eyes. If you need to touch your eyes, ensure that your hands are clean and dry. - Avoid Sleeping in Lenses
Unless specifically designed for extended wear, avoid sleeping in your colored contacts. Sleeping in lenses can reduce oxygen flow to your eyes, increasing the risk of infection and discomfort. Always remove your lenses before going to bed and clean them according to the recommended schedule. - Replace Lenses and Cases Regularly
Follow the replacement schedule provided by your eye care professional for your lenses, whether they are daily, bi-weekly, or monthly disposables. Using lenses beyond their recommended timeframe can increase the risk of infections. Additionally, replace your contact lens case every three months to ensure it remains clean and free of bacteria.
Avoiding Contaminants
Protect your lenses from potential contaminants by following these guidelines: - Keep Lenses Away from Water
Avoid exposing your lenses to water, including swimming pools, hot tubs, and showers. Water can contain bacteria and other contaminants that may adhere to your lenses and cause infections. Remove your lenses before swimming or showering. - Avoid Sharing Lenses
Never share your contact lenses with others. Sharing lenses can transfer bacteria and other pathogens between individuals, increasing the risk of infection for both parties. Ensure that you use only your own lenses and follow proper hygiene practices.
Recognizing and Addressing Issues
Being aware of potential problems and addressing them promptly is important for maintaining eye health: - Monitor for Symptoms
Pay attention to any symptoms of eye infections, such as redness, irritation, excessive tearing, or discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms, remove your lenses immediately and consult with your eye care professional. - Seek Professional Advice
Regular check-ups with your eye care professional are essential for maintaining eye health. They can provide guidance on proper lens care, address any issues you may be experiencing, and ensure that your lenses fit correctly and are suitable for your eyes.
Conclusion
Prescription colored contacts can offer both vision correction and a stylish enhancement to your appearance, but they require careful handling and maintenance to prevent eye infections. By adhering to strict hygiene practices, properly cleaning and storing your lenses, and following your eye care professional’s recommendations, you can enjoy the benefits of colored contacts while keeping your eyes healthy. Prioritizing lens care and monitoring for any signs of infection will help ensure that your experience with prescription colored contacts is both safe and enjoyable.