Top 10 Mistakes Contact Lens Wearers Make & How to Avoid Them
Are You Wearing Contact Lenses the Right Way?
Contact lenses provide convenience and clear vision, but are you caring for them correctly?
Many wearers unknowingly put their eyes at risk by making simple mistakes that can lead to
irritation, infections, and even vision loss. Here’s how to avoid the top 10 contact lens
mistakes and keep your eyes healthy.
1. Wearing Lenses Too Long? How It Affects Your Eye Health
Wearing contact lenses longer than recommended reduces
oxygen supply to the cornea, leading to dryness, irritation,
and a higher risk of infections.
How to avoid it: Always follow your optometrist’s recommended
wearing schedule—whether daily, weekly, or monthly lenses.
Dispose of daily lenses at the end of the day, and don’t exceed the
recommended wear time for extended-wear lenses.
2. Sleeping in Lenses Can Lead to Corneal Ulcers – Here’s Why
Unless prescribed, sleeping in contact lenses can trap bacteria, increasing the risk of serious
infections and corneal ulcers.
How to avoid it: Always remove your lenses before sleeping. If you forget often, set a reminder
or use a phone alarm.
3. Overusing Eye Drops: The Hidden Risks for Contact Lens Wearers
While eye drops can temporarily relieve dryness, overuse may
mask symptoms of a bigger problem or even worsen dryness.
How to avoid it: Use preservative-free lubricating drops
designed for contact lens wearers, and consult your eye doctor if
discomfort persists
4. Not Replacing Lenses on Time
Wearing lenses beyond their lifespan increases protein buildup, discomfort, and infection
risks.
How to avoid it: Stick to the recommended replacement schedule and set reminders to replace
your lenses on time.
5. Skipping Regular Eye Exams: A Dangerous Mistake
Even if your vision seems fine, skipping eye exams can allow
undetected infections, dry eye syndrome, or prescription
changes to worsen over time.
How to avoid it: Schedule annual eye check-ups to ensure your
eyes stay healthy and your lenses fit correctly.
6. Poor Hygiene: The Fastest Way to Eye Infections
Touching your lenses with dirty hands can introduce bacteria, leading to infections like
keratitis.
How to avoid it: Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses.
Clean your lens case regularly and never store lenses in water.
7. Ignoring Discomfort Can Lead to Severe Issues
If your lenses cause redness, irritation, or blurry vision, ignoring
these symptoms can lead to corneal damage.
How to avoid it: If discomfort persists, remove your lenses and give
your eyes a break. If irritation continues, visit your eye doctor
immediately.
8. Using Expired or Incorrect Contact Lens Solution
Using expired or mixed solutions increases the risk of contamination, leading to severe
infections.
How to avoid it: Always use fresh, unexpired solutions, and never mix old with new
9. Touching Lenses with Dirty Fingers
Even small amounts of oil, dirt, or bacteria on your fingers can transfer to your lenses, causing
irritation or infections.
How to avoid it: Wash your hands with soap and dry them before touching your lenses.
10. Storing Lenses Improperly? Here’s Why It’s Risky
A dirty lens case or improper storage can introduce harmful bacteria, leading to infections like
fungal keratitis.
How to avoid it: Clean your lens case regularly with fresh solution and replace it every 3-6
months. Never store lenses in tap water.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Eyes Safe & Healthy
Proper contact lens care is essential for preventing infections, irritation, and long-term eye damage. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your lenses stay comfortable and your eyes stay healthy. Noticed discomfort or vision changes? Schedule an eye exam today to protect your eyesight!
Experience The
