~ Contact Lens Mistakes That Can Harm Your Eyes ~

[MysteRy]

Contact Lens Mistakes That Can Harm Your Eyes

A switch from glasses to contact lenses can be very pleasing. They are convenient, aesthetically appealing, and give you a perfect peripheral vision. However, they also need proper care, since even slightest ignorance could cause infections, damaging your eyes irreversibly. Below are some common contact lens mistakes which should be avoided right away.


1. Sleeping With Contact Lenses



Contact lenses are in direct contact with the outermost layer of the eye which is the cornea. This layer ensures adequate inflow of oxygen to the eyes. When it is covered with a contact lens, the oxygen permeability reduces considerably. Sleeping with contact lenses further decreases the level of oxygen supply, leading to dry eyes and blurred vision. Severe cases also result in infections. Studies show that sleeping with contact lenses is one of the major causes of keratitis (inflammation of cornea).

Some manufactures claim that certain lenses are safe to be worn for extended time, even during sleep. However, persistent usage of such products could also lead to aforementioned problems.

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2. Using Contact Lenses Post Expiration Date



Various brands offer daily, weekly, monthly, or quarterly disposable contact lenses. Care should be taken not to use them post their expiration date. Old lenses could get coated with the debris of microorganisms and protein, after constant usage and cause an infection.

Studies were conducted on the solution in which such contact lenses were stored. The results showed that the solution was either too acidic or alkaline, indicating microbe build-up.

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3. Swimming Or Taking A Shower Wearing Contact Lenses



Water sources like pools, bathroom sink, and bath tub could contain Acanthamoeba bacteria. Lenses have the ability to absorb this bacteria and swell, which changes their shape entirely. This, not only affects the usability, but also leads to infections. Severe infection could cause permanent blindness.

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4. Not Washing The Lenses Using Solution



This is one of the most commonly made contact lens mistakes. Tap water or water from the filter is usually used to wash the lenses or the contact lens case. Though this water is safe to drink, it is not sterile, and could contaminate your lenses or the case. This could lead to inflammation, scarring and vision impairment gradually.

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5. Using Contact Lens Solution Of Different Brands



It is always advisable to not fall into the trap of discounts, and switch between solutions of different brands. Your eyes and lenses get adjusted to one brand with persistent usage, and changing it could cause irritation and dryness. Also, your doctor would have prescribed the right one for you based on the effectiveness and compatibility; and it is better to stick to the prescription.

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6. Sharing Contact Lenses With Others



This is true in case of cosmetic contact lenses, where one user might share the lenses with the other. It is important to know that, along with the lenses you are also swapping your body fluids, which could be dangerous. From common cold to STDs, you might just be sharing these diseases in common in near future.

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7. Not Cleaning The Case After Each Use



It is mandatory to clean the lens case with the solution after each use. Not doing so would let the microbes multiply and grow in the case, forming a “biofilm.” This could contaminate your lenses the next time you place them in.

Contact lenses have made life easier, adding to your confidence. Proper care and routine could ensure you not just beautiful, but also healthy eyes. Not taking them for granted is the key!