A concise reminder about hygiene, replacement schedules and warning signs.
Contact lenses are medical devices. They can provide clear and comfortable vision when properly fitted, worn and cared for, but poor hygiene can increase the risk of irritation, infection and corneal complications.
Wash and Dry Your Hands
Wash your hands with soap and dry them with a clean, lint-free towel before touching your lenses or eyes.
Keep Lenses Away from Water
Do not rinse or store contact lenses in tap, bottled or distilled water. Remove lenses before swimming or showering unless your eye-care professional has given specific protective instructions. Never use saliva to wet a lens.
Use Fresh Disinfecting Solution
Use the solution recommended for your lens type. Do not top off old solution by adding new solution to the case. Clean and replace the contact-lens case according to professional and manufacturer guidance.
Follow the Replacement Schedule
Do not continue using daily, fortnightly or monthly lenses beyond their prescribed replacement period, even when they still feel comfortable.
Do Not Sleep in Lenses Unless Specifically Prescribed
Sleeping in contact lenses can increase the risk of complications. Overnight wear should occur only when the lens has been specifically prescribed for it and the eye-care professional has advised it.
Keep Backup Glasses
Carry spectacles so that lenses can be removed when the eyes become dry, irritated or uncomfortable.
Warning Signs
Remove the lenses and seek prompt eye care for eye pain, significant redness, light sensitivity, discharge, persistent watering, sudden blur or reduced vision, a white spot on the cornea, or symptoms that continue after removing the lens. Do not restart lens wear until advised.
Experiencing discomfort with contact lenses?
Stop wearing the lenses and arrange an eye examination, particularly when discomfort is associated with redness, pain or reduced vision.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general education and does not provide a diagnosis. An eye examination may be required for individual guidance.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)