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Contact lenses provide most people with more visual freedom. It enables you to have an active and dynamic life, such as during sports or trips. Using contact lenses can also offer you a more natural appearance without the need for glasses. While contact lenses offer clear vision and convenience, you need to handle them with care to prevent eye infections. Improper use can lead to serious eye problems. However, if you have never worn contact lenses, it is completely normal to have one common question: “How to wear contact lenses correctly?” Follow these essential steps to wear contact lenses safely and correctly.
Contact lenses are tiny, curved discs that sit directly on your eye to correct vision problems. They address vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Unlike glasses, contact lenses move with the eye, providing a broader field of vision and a more natural appearance, as found in a study published in StatPearls. While contact lenses are convenient and effective, they must be handled with care to avoid eye infections. It is critical to follow proper cleanliness and care guidelines to guarantee safe and comfortable use, says ophthalmologist Dr Arvind Kumar.
Also Read: Jasmine Bhasin suffers temporary vision loss due to contact lenses: Symptoms to look out for
Contact lenses are used for numerous reasons, including:
Contact lenses are generally safe when you use them correctly. However, if you do not take proper care of your eyes, you may develop an infection, found a study published in the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Here is an expert-approved guide on how to wear contact lenses safely:
If you want to wear contact lenses, have a complete eye exam to establish what type of corrective lenses you require. Depending on your medical needs, an eye care specialist will help you choose the appropriate contact lenses.
When learning how to wear contact lenses for the first time, you must thoroughly understand the lens care regimen. It is advisable not to take shortcuts when cleaning your lenses. Your optometrist will provide specific instructions for the lens maintenance regimen they prescribed. If you are using a multipurpose cleaning lens solution, for example, rub and rinse your lenses every time you take them out before replacing them with a new solution. When you put your lenses on in the morning, empty the case completely, rinse it with fresh solution and place it upside down on a paper towel to air dry.
Wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel. This way you will be able to avoid any irritants affecting your contact lenses, which will also help keep your eyes healthy. Plus, fingernails contain dirt and bacteria. If not handled properly, these can infect your eyes. That is why keeping your fingernails away from your contacts is one of the most important suggestions for first-time contact wearers.
It may take some practice, but within a few days, you will be able to manage it. Follow these steps:
Removing your contacts is vital because it allows your eyes to breathe. Some contacts should be removed each night. To remove contacts, follow the steps below:
Here are some common risks associated with contact lenses, as found in a study published in the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Also Read: 6 scary things that happen when you wear contact lenses for too long
Contact lenses should not be worn around the whole day. Give your eyes a break and get some fresh air. Doctors often advise against wearing contact lenses for more than eight hours. However, there is no hard and fast rule, as the wearing time varies depending on the individual as well as the type and quality of contact lenses. To avoid eye irritation, follow the indicated wearing period, cleaning instructions, and check the expiry date for your lenses.
It is not safe to sleep while wearing contacts, even if you are only taking a nap. An occasional or accidental sleep in your contacts can raise your risk of infection. If you believe you might fall asleep, it is best to remove your contact lenses first.
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