7 common mistakes of contact lens wearers

Missing expiration date and incorrect cleaning are among the main risk habits of users

When it comes to health, lack of information and overconfidence can be a combination with serious consequences. This is what happens to contact lens wearers, who often relax with daily care and can impair vision. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States (CDC), up to 90% of people who use the alternative to see better have risky habits, which can lead to serious illness and even blindness.

“One of the main problems we face is the lack of knowledge of the correct procedures. People usually do not know they are doing something wrong and do not imagine the risks they are exposed to,” explains ophthalmologist Claudia Del Claro, head of the ward. lenses from the Florianópolis eye hospital.

Considering the risks of poor contact lens care, the ophthalmologist lists the 7 biggest mistakes users usually make. Take a look to know how to avoid them.

1. Sleep with contact lenses

This is one of the most common risk behaviors among lens wearers. According to a study by the FDA, the US drug regulatory agency, about a third of users report it sleep or take a nap with them. But this, according to Dr. Claudia del Claro, increases the risk of serious eye infections by up to eight times, which can lead to the need for a transplant, permanent vision loss or even the eyeball.

“Furthermore, when we sleep with the lenses, we skip the cleaning and disinfection process that must be done daily, which can cause sensitization of the eyes, generating allergies, intolerances and interruptions in use”, explains the doctor. He adds that sleeping with the goal also causes poor oxygenation of the cornea.

Two. Wear lenses in the pool or in the sea

The lens is a great ally in everyday life and offers the user independence and freedom. But it cannot be used in all situations. “In no way can a person be exposed to water – whether from the bathroom, sea, swimming pool or waterfall – using the contact lens, as the water contains microorganisms that can deposit on the lens, causing infections “, explains Claudia Del Claro.

3. It does not clean properly

Cleaning the lenses should be done every day before storing them. This is because lysozyme, a protein found in tears, builds up in contact lenses. If it is not removed daily with a special product and friction, it is possible that the person has symptoms such as: irritation, feeling of sand in the eyes, blurred vision and intolerance to contact lenses. To clean it is necessary to use a specific multipurpose solution that serves to disinfect, removing bacteria, fungi, protozoa, pollutants or possibly impregnated dirt.

4. Do not change or clean the case

If the lenses suffer from a lack of cleanliness, the case is even more neglected. The same multipurpose solution used for the lens disinfection must be used to clean the accessory. “Every day, when putting the lenses in the eyes, the user must completely discard the liquid that is in the case and then drip a few drops of the solution to clean the product with a paper towel”, explains the ophthalmologist, who points out: the case must be replaced every 3 months.

5. Ignore the expiration date

If you do not have to consume expired foods, with contact lenses the recommendation is the same: if the period has expired, they should not be used. “It is a very important rule: do not use lenses after their expiration date. Respect the expiration date of the manufacturer, since he knows the period of deterioration of the material. An expired lens loses its safety and effectiveness, as well as increasing the possibility of developing eye problems.

6. Excessive use of the lens

As practical as they are, the lenses cannot be worn continuously. The ideal is not to exceed 12 hours of daily use. This is because the the cornea is avascular, that is, it has no blood vessels. The only way, therefore, for cells to receive oxygen is through the air in contact with the tear. Therefore, the user should always be in follow-up with his ophthalmologist to evaluate how the eyes react to the use of lenses, guarantees the specialist.

7. Use of inappropriate cleaning products

A very risky habit for contact lens wearers is to replace the specific multipurpose solution for this with saline, water or saliva. The use of these products does not involve the process of disinfection and removal of proteins. And this can lead to eye diseases.

By Karen Villerva

+The best content in your email for free. Choose your favorite Earth Newsletter. Click here!

Source: Terra

Benjamin

Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.