Wearing contact lenses should be a simple and comfortable experience, but mistakes can cause discomfort and even harm to your eyes. In Calgary, it's important to avoid common pitfalls like improper cleaning, extended wear, and lack of hygiene. At My Optometrist, we emphasize the proper care and maintenance of your contact lenses to ensure long-term eye health and comfort. Whether you're dealing with dryness, irritation, or poor hygiene practices, our team in Calgary is here to help. Learn how to fix these issues, improve your lens-wearing experience, and keep your eyes safe! Contact us to book an appointment today for expert advice and personalized care from the best optometrists in Calgary and Three Hills.
Contact lenses offer convenience and clear vision for many people, but improper use can lead to discomfort, eye infections, or even permanent damage. If you're wearing contact lenses, it's essential to be aware of common mistakes that can affect your eye health. Whether you’re new to contact lenses or have been wearing them for years, this blog from My Optometrist in Calgary's SE and NE, and Three Hills is designed to help you maintain optimal eye health by avoiding these common pitfalls.
Mistake #1: Not Cleaning Your Lenses Properly
One of the most common contact lens mistakes is neglecting proper cleaning. Contact lenses accumulate dirt, oils, and bacteria that can cause discomfort and lead to infections if not cleaned correctly. Failing to use the right cleaning solution or cleaning your lenses less often than required can result in eye irritation or more severe health problems.
How to Fix It
To avoid this mistake, always follow the cleaning instructions given by your optometrist. Use fresh cleaning solution every time you disinfect your lenses, and never rinse them with water, as tap water contains bacteria that can cause serious infections. Regularly clean your case as well to avoid buildup of harmful microorganisms. If you're unsure about which cleaning solution is right for your lenses, consult My Optometrist in Calgary or Three Hills for personalized advice.
Mistake #2: Wearing Lenses for Too Long
It’s tempting to keep your contact lenses in all day, especially when you're busy or just forget you're wearing them. However, wearing lenses beyond the recommended time can lead to dryness, irritation, and even damage to your cornea.
How to Fix It
Stick to the recommended wear time for your specific lenses, whether they are daily, weekly, or monthly disposables. Remember to give your eyes a break by removing your lenses at night and opting for glasses when appropriate. If you're frequently experiencing discomfort, it might be time to consult with your optometrist at My Optometrist in Calgary and Three Hills to ensure your lenses are a good fit for your lifestyle.
Mistake #3: Wearing Lenses While Swimming or Showering
Water, whether from a pool or shower, can contain harmful bacteria that can stick to your contact lenses, increasing the risk of eye infections. Unfortunately, some people continue to wear their contact lenses when swimming or showering, unaware of the potential damage this can cause.
How to Fix It
Always remove your contact lenses before getting in the water. If you wear disposable lenses and accidentally wear them while swimming, be sure to replace them as soon as possible to avoid contamination. To protect your eyes from water exposure, consider wearing swim goggles if you must keep your lenses in.
Mistake #4: Not Replacing Your Lenses on Time
Another common mistake is keeping your lenses in for longer than their recommended lifespan. Over time, contact lenses degrade and lose their ability to stay comfortable or provide proper vision. Continuing to wear old lenses can lead to discomfort and even more serious eye issues.
How to Fix It
Stay on schedule with lens replacements. If you're wearing daily lenses, dispose of them at the end of the day. If you have monthly or bi-weekly lenses, set reminders to replace them on time. Don’t try to extend the life of your lenses past their expiration date. At My Optometrist, we can help you choose the right lens replacement schedule for your eyes and lifestyle.
Mistake #5: Ignoring Eye Irritation or Discomfort
Some contact lens users ignore irritation or discomfort, thinking it’s just part of wearing lenses. However, any irritation, redness, or blurred vision should not be dismissed. It could be a sign of an infection, dry eyes, or a poor fit that could cause long-term harm.
How to Fix It
If you experience discomfort, remove your lenses immediately and give your eyes a break. Make sure your lenses are properly fitted by a professional to prevent ongoing issues. If the irritation persists, schedule an eye exam with an optometrist at My Optometrist in Calgary or Three Hills. It's crucial to address these issues promptly to maintain healthy eyes.
Keep Your Eyes Healthy with Proper Contact Lens Care
Maintaining proper care for your contact lenses is essential for preserving your eye health and comfort. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can protect your eyes from unnecessary irritation and infections. If you're unsure about your lens care routine or experience persistent discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to My Optometrist in Calgary and Three Hills. Our expert optometrists are here to guide you on the best practices for contact lens hygiene and provide you with the right solutions to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear.
At My Optometrist, we offer comprehensive eye care services, including contact lens fittings, dry eye treatments, and more. Contact us to schedule your appointment today in Calgary or Three Hills to ensure your contact lens wear is safe and comfortable.
FAQ’s
Q: What are common mistakes people make when wearing contact lenses?
A: Common mistakes include not cleaning lenses properly, wearing them too long, and not following hygiene practices.
Q: Can wearing contact lenses for too long damage my eyes?
A: Yes, wearing lenses for longer than recommended can cause dryness, irritation, and even eye infections.
Q: How often should I replace my contact lenses?
A: Follow your optometrist’s advice, but generally, daily or monthly lenses should be replaced as per their specified lifespan. Contact us to book your contact lens consultation.