Measures to take when wearing contact lenses this season

Contact lenses should be completely avoided if our eyes are feeling dry, itchy, red and irritated, says Dr Neeraj Sanduja, ophthalmologist, and eye surgeon

Here's what to keep in mind (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Contact lenses are both a bane and a boon. While providing freedom from the nuisance of constantly carrying and (losing) are glasses, they are also a potential source of infection for our eyes if proper hygiene is not maintained especially in the monsoon season, said Dr Neeraj Sanduja, ophthalmologist, and eye surgeon. If you are a contact lens wearer, Dr Sanduja listed down a few measures that are a must to adhere to.

Hygiene – The storage case of the contact lens should be kept clean and disinfected. This would prevent eye infections when we are reusing the lenses. So clean your lens case with warm soapy water and completely dry at least once a week before putting the lenses in it.

Dirty hands – Never expose your eyes to dirty hands while wearing contact lenses. Our hands come in contact with dirty surfaces and countless germs during the course of the day so always clean your hands before touching your eyes or the lens.

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Water on the face – Avoid swimming with contact lenses on as the swimming pool is a virtual cesspool of infections. Similarly use of tap water, even while rinsing are face or taking a shower, should be avoided if we have our lenses on. This is not only a source of infection but can also lead to micro-abrasions on the contact lens.

Get your eyes checked at the first sign of discomfort (Pixabay)

Sleeping – Always remember to take off your contact lenses before going to sleep. As the eyes remain closed, the cornea is deprived of the ambient oxygen from the air, which increases the risk of eye infection. This can lead to blurring of vision, swelling, and eye pain.

Eye infections – Contact lenses should be completely avoided if our eyes are feeling dry, itchy, red, and irritated. This can be a sign of an eye infection.

Overwearing – If the contact lens is used for an extended period of time than recommended by your eye specialist, it can lead to swelling up of the cornea leading to corneal injury and keratitis.

Replace – Replace your contact lenses at regular intervals to prevent chronic eye infection and irritation.

Cleaning – Clean your lenses regularly. When not done, it can lead to a buildup of proteins, dust, and microbes on the lens, which can lead to eye infection and chronic problems like papillary conjunctivitis due to irritation.

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Makeup – The use of eye makeup should be avoided while wearing contact lenses. If any cosmetic product or face cream touches the lens, remove the lens and wash your eyes thoroughly.

Consult – In case of any irritation or infection while using the lenses, contact your eye doctor immediately.