1. Extended-wear hard contact lenses are better than soft ones because they are associated with fewer long-term complications, such as allergic reaction and intolerance, but they require a longer adjustment period (2 weeks instead of 2-3 days).

 

2. Extended-wear hard contact lenses should be replaced every 1.5-2 years, and permanent soft contact lenses every 1-1.5 years.

 

3. Always wash your hands with antiseptic soap when removing or placing the contact lenses.

 

4. Always use sterile solutions and never use tap water.

 

5. Always take your contact lenses out before bedtime.

 

6. Use different solutions for bedtime storage and for washing before wearing your contacts.

 

7. Avoid using contact lenses in dusty weather, when swimming, or diving.

 

8. Avoid wearing contacts when the eye is infected or an allergic reaction is present.

 

9. Make routine eye appointments every 6 months with your eye doctor.

 

10. If you experience discomfort, redness or diminished vision when your contacts are on, remove them carefully and visit your eye doctor to ascertain that no infection or allergic reaction occurred.

 

© Shimon Rumelt, MD. 2005. All Rights Reserved

 

The author is not responsible for the application of any of the suggestions appearing or not appearing on this page, and these cannot be a basis for any claim whatsoever.