There are a number of misunderstandings about contact lenses, so we asked some of our licensed Optometrists to share advice to ensure that you are wearing your prescribed contact lenses properly.
Remember, always check in with your Optometrist who will be able to provide you information specific to your prescription and eye care needs.
What is the biggest misconception about contact lenses?
A contact lens is a medical device that should be handled and treated as such. It is imperative that contact lenses are fitted by an Optometrist following an eye exam to ensure corneal integrity. It is important that wearers adhere to the wearing schedule provided by their personal Optometrist and comply with specified guidelines of wear.
What are the biggest mistakes that people make with their contact lenses?
Some of the biggest mistakes that people make with contact lenses are failing to comply with proper lens care to make sure that their contact lenses are clean, and following their wear schedule to ensure that they are not using their lenses for too long. If a person is prescribed to wear a two week lens or a one month lens, it is important that the wear is not “stretched” passed the two or four week period.
Protein deposits, lipids and bacterial biofilm will start to settle in the contact lens pores that are not easily removed past the recommended wear schedule due to the matureness of the lens.
Claudia Rojas | Licensed Refracting Optician & Contact Lens Fitter
Is it OK to sleep with your contact lenses?
It is not recommended to sleep in contact lenses, even though there are some extended wear lens types. Your corneas need oxygen, which will be blocked when wearing them through the night. Wearing contact lenses overnight can also lead to dryness, and can increase the risk of corneal eye infections and other complications – including blindness.
Kaitlyn Wright | Licensed Refracting Optician & Contact Lens Fitter
What are the biggest misconceptions around wearing contact lenses?
A lot of contact lens wearers don’t have enough education about care and hygiene regiments, which is why an appointment with an Optometrist and a proper contact lens fitting is key. All contact lens wearers should remember the following:
Do Not Overwear: A lot of people are still sleeping in their contact lenses even when it isn’t recommended, and even more don’t realize how important it is to change their Contact Lenses regularly.
Follow Proper Hygiene: Many don’t follow the guidelines for proper contact lens care. For one, washing hands before every insertion and removal of lenses is so important to avoid bacterial transfer.
Remember this is a Prescribed Product: Too many people think of contact lenses are cosmetic, and they need to know that contact lenses are medical devices that must be prescribed by an Optometrist.
Maria Zaytseva – Licensed Optician & Contact Lens Fitter
Following Guidelines for Proper Contact Lens Care and the advice of your Eye Care Professional regarding your contact lens wear will ensure that you have healthy, happy eyes.
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