In a recent study, the CDC found three common mistakes of contact lens care that can lead to serious eye infections. Michael Beach, director of CDC’s Healthy Water Program, said, “Contact lenses are a safe and effective form of vision correction when worn and cared for as recommended. However, improper wear and care of contact lenses can cause eye infections that sometimes lead to serious, long-term damage.”
The three risk factors listed by the CDC are falling asleep with contact lenses still in, adding new solution in with old solution, and not replacing lenses as often as doctors recommend.
Sleeping with Contact Lenses In
According to the CDC, sleeping in contact lenses can increase your likeliness for eye infections by up to eight times. The cornea has microscopic abrasions that can lead to infections when the bacteria on the back of the contact lens touches the cornea for an excessive period of time.
Mixing Old and New Solution
The CDC states that when new solution is combined with old, it lowers the solution’s overall ability to fight germs. When you put these lenses back in, it greatly increases the probability of infection because they are not clean lenses.
Infrequently Replacing Lenses
“People who do not replace their lenses as often as recommended have more complications and report more eye problems than those who follow the replacement recommendations,” the CDC says. The length of time you should wear your contacts depends on the type of lens you have. You should always replace lenses within the timeframe your doctor suggests.
Dr. Patel Saves Patient’s Sight
One of Dr. Patel’s patients learned the hard way why contact lens care is so important. Last year, Chris Brewer made two mistakes that lead to a very serious infection; he wore dirty lenses and kept his lenses in while swimming. He experienced severe soreness in his eyes and even went to the Emergency Room. After meeting with an ophthalmologist at the hospital, Brewer was told he would lose his sight. He went to Florida Eye Specialists for a second opinion. Dr. Patel prescribed custom eye drops for Brewer. Before too long, the 4mm ulcer in his eye was healed.
Dr. Patel suggests disposable, daily contact lenses as the safest option for contact lens wearers. He says, “They are well worth the investment.”
If you’ve experienced discomfort or any other problems from your contact lenses, contact the doctors at Florida Eye Specialists, the most experienced team of specialists in the area. You can schedule an appointment online, or call us at 904-209-9482.