Contact lens wear can offer a convenient and effective way to correct vision, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with lens wear. Microbial keratitis is a serious eye infection that can occur in contact lens wearers and is caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The risk of microbial keratitis can be reduced by following proper hygiene and lens care techniques.
Instructions for first-time contact lens wearers:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your lenses.
- Remove a lens from the packaging and rinse it with solution to remove any debris.
- Place the lens on the tip of your index finger, with the curved side facing up.
- Place the lens directly onto your eye, ensuring that it covers the iris and the white part of the eye.
- Use your other hand to gently close your eye and blink a few times to help the lens settle into place.
Instructions for contact lens removal:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your lenses.
- Look up and gently pull down the lower eyelid with your index finger to create a pocket.
- Use the index finger of your other hand to gently grasp the lens and remove it from your eye.
Instructions for cleaning and maintaining your contact lenses:
- Clean your contact lenses each time you remove them using a multipurpose solution such as BioTrue MPS or OptiFree Puremoist.
- Rub the lenses gently with your fingers for about 10-15 seconds, then rinse them thoroughly with solution.
- Store the lenses in the case and fill the case with fresh solution. Leave the lenses to soak for at least six hours or overnight.
- Replace the solution in the lens case daily and replace the case every three months.
- Avoid using tap water to clean your lenses and never reuse solution.
Risks of Infection
The rate of infection for contact lens wearers can vary depending on several factors, including the type of lens and the frequency of lens replacement. However, studies have shown that daily disposable contact lenses generally have a lower rate of infection compared to monthly disposable lenses.
A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that the rate of microbial keratitis (a type of eye infection) among daily disposable contact lens wearers was approximately 8 cases per 10,000 wearers, while the rate among monthly disposable contact lens wearers was around 14 cases per 10,000 wearers.
Another study found that the risk of infection was lower in daily disposable lens wearers compared to those who wore extended wear lenses (worn continuously for a week or more), and lower still in those who wore daily disposable lenses compared to monthly disposable lenses.
It’s important to note that the risk of infection can also be influenced by a range of other factors, including lens care habits, the storage of lenses and cases, and personal hygiene. To minimize the risk of infection, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the guidelines provided by your optometrist.
It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to minimize the risk of eye infections and ensure the health and comfort of your eyes while wearing contact lenses. If you experience any discomfort or have any concerns, it’s best to consult with your optometrist for further advice.