Contact lenses offer a convenient alternative to eyeglasses, providing clear vision and freedom from frames. While modern lenses are designed for comfort, they require strict adherence to hygiene and schedule guidelines to prevent serious eye issues. Simple mistakes in daily care can quickly lead to painful infections, corneal abrasions, or inflammation. Avoiding these common errors is necessary to maintain the health of your eyes and the clarity of your vision.
Mistakes in Cleaning and Storage
A frequent mistake is adding new solution to the liquid already sitting in the lens case, a practice known as “topping off.” This practice significantly reduces the solution’s disinfecting power because active ingredients are neutralized by proteins and microorganisms from previous use. Always completely empty the old solution and fill the case with fresh, sterile contact lens solution for every storage cycle.
Never use saline solution or rewetting drops for disinfection, as these products are not formulated to kill harmful microbes; they are only meant for rinsing or moisturizing. Cases should be rinsed with fresh, sterile solution—never water—and allowed to air-dry upside down after each use. To prevent the formation of a protective layer of microbes called a biofilm, the case should be replaced entirely on a regular basis, ideally every one to three months.
Improper Wear Schedules
Wearing lenses longer than prescribed is a common error that directly impacts eye health, even if the lenses still feel comfortable. Each lens type has a specific replacement schedule determined by its material and design. Wearing lenses past their date allows for an accumulation of protein, lipids, and debris, which can lead to irritation, inflammation, and reduced oxygen flow to the cornea.
A risky habit is sleeping in lenses not specifically approved for extended wear. The cornea receives most of its oxygen directly from the air, and a closed eyelid combined with a contact lens drastically reduces this supply. Oxygen deprivation, or hypoxia, makes the eye more susceptible to infection and can lead to swelling or damage. If the eyes become red, irritated, painful, or exhibit blurred vision, the lenses must be removed immediately, as continuing to wear them can worsen an underlying infection or injury.
Risks Related to Water and Environment
Water, including tap water, distilled water, and even bottled water, is a major source of contamination and should never be used to rinse or store contact lenses. These sources can harbor the microorganism Acanthamoeba, which causes a serious and painful eye infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis. This infection affects the cornea and can result in severe vision loss or blindness.
To avoid exposure to this organism, wearers should never shower, swim, or use a hot tub while wearing contact lenses. The lens can absorb water and trap the Acanthamoeba against the corneal surface, increasing the risk of infection. Even using saliva to moisten a lens should be avoided, as the mouth contains bacteria not meant for the eye. Airborne substances such as aerosol sprays, including hairspray or deodorant, can coat the lens surface and cause irritation. Avoid applying makeup along the inner lash line to prevent particles from contaminating the lens or the eye’s surface.