How to Avoid Eye Infections When Wearing Contact Lenses?

Keeping Your Eyes Healthy While Wearing Contacts

Image credit: jaheedkhan.co.uk

For the 45 million Americans who wear contact lenses, maintaining proper eye health and hygiene is of the utmost importance. Wearing contacts brings the risk of several types of eye infections, from mild irritation to potentially sight-threatening conditions. However, with the right precautions, contact lens wearers can greatly reduce their chances of developing an infection.

The most common eye infections associated with contact lens wear include bacterial keratitis, acanthamoeba keratitis, and giant papillary conjunctivitis. Bacterial keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea often caused by pseudomonas or staphylococcus bacteria, resulting in pain, redness, light sensitivity and blurred vision. Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare but serious infection caused by a microscopic parasite found in water sources, leading to severe eye pain and vision loss if left untreated. Giant papillary conjunctivitis is an inflammatory response to contact lens wear, causing bumps to form under the eyelids.

These types of infections can occur when contacts are not properly cleaned and disinfected, are worn for too long, or come into contact with water sources like showers, pools or hot tubs. Poor hand hygiene when handling lenses can also introduce bacteria into the eye. Certain habits, such as sleeping in daily contacts or "topping off" solution in the lens case, dramatically increase infection risk.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling contacts. Avoid using bar soap, which can leave residue on the hands.

2. Clean and disinfect your lenses as directed, using the solution recommended by your eye doctor. Never reuse or "top off" solution in the case.

3. Replace your contact lens case every 3-6 months, and air dry it upside down between uses. Bacteria can grow in moist, warm environments.

4. Remove contacts before showering, swimming, or using a hot tub. Exposing lenses to water increases the chances of acanthamoeba or other waterborne infections.

5. Don't sleep in contact lenses unless they're approved for extended overnight wear. Sleeping in daily contacts significantly raises the risk of infection.

6. Monitor your eyes for any signs of redness, pain, sensitivity to light, excessive tearing or discharge, and see your eye doctor promptly if any issues arise.

7. Follow the specific guidelines and replacement schedule for your particular lens type. Overwear can compromise the lens material and foster bacterial growth.

While these guidelines may seem like a lot to remember, establishing good contact lens hygiene habits is critical for protecting your eye health. Improper lens care and hygiene are the leading causes of contact lens-related eye infections.

By taking these preventative steps, contact lens wearers can enjoy the comfort and vision benefits of their lenses while minimizing the risk of potentially blinding infections. If you have any concerns about your contact lens use, be sure to consult with your eye doctor. With the right precautions, you can keep your eyes healthy and happy, even with contacts.