Avoiding complications

Wearing contact lenses can cause problems ranging from discomfort to severe infections. To prevent problems:

• Practice good hygiene. Before handling contacts, wash your hands with soap and water, rinse and dry them with a lint-free towel.
• Minimize contact with water and saliva. Remove your contact lenses before you swim or use a hot tub. Don't put your lenses in your mouth to wet them.
• Take care with contact lens solutions. Use only commercially prepared, sterile products designed for the type of contact lenses you wear. Discard the solution in the contact lens case each time you disinfect and store your lenses. Gently rub and rinse your lenses as directed by your doctor. Don't use contact solution that's past the expiration date.
• Replace contact lenses and cases as recommended. Follow manufacturer guidelines for replacing your contact lenses. Clean and rinse your case with sterile contact lens solution each time you finish using it. Don't use tap water. Consider flipping over the case while it's air-drying to drain any solution. Replace your case every three months.
• Avoid over-the-counter contact lenses. These lenses can cause eye injuries and infections. If you're interested in decorative contact lenses, talk to your eye doctor.

Even with proper use and care, dry eyes can be an issue for contact lens wearers. If your eyes are itchy or red, remove your contact lenses and use lubricating eyedrops.

If your vision becomes blurry or you experience eye pain or extreme sensitivity to light, see your eye doctor for prompt treatment.