When Should I Avoid Wearing Contact Lenses? | Things You Have to Know

Contact lenses are an essential vision aid for millions of people worldwide. However, as convenient and beneficial as they are, there are certain situations and conditions that warrant caution when wearing contact lenses. Preventing eye infections is crucial, and one of the most effective ways to do that is by understanding when to avoid wearing your lenses.

In this blog post, we'll discuss different scenarios when it's best to give your eyes a break from contact lenses and provide tips for maintaining optimal eye health.

Swimming and Water Activities

Wearing contact lenses while swimming, in hot tubs, or engaging in water sports increases the risk of eye infections. Water often contains harmful microorganisms, such as Acanthamoeba, which can cause severe corneal infections.

To minimize the risk of contamination, always remove your contact lenses before engaging in water activities. If you must wear them, consider using watertight goggles to protect your eyes.

Allergies and Irritations

Allergic reactions and environmental irritants like dust, pollen, and smoke can cause discomfort and inflammation in the eyes.

In these situations, it's best to avoid wearing contact lenses, as they can exacerbate the issue. If you have a history of allergies or sensitivity to environmental irritants, consider discussing alternative vision correction options with your eye care professional.

Eye Infections and Inflammation

If you are experiencing redness, itchiness, or discharge from your eyes, it is essential to remove your contact lenses and consult an eye care professional immediately.

These symptoms could be signs of an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis, or inflammation, such as keratitis. Continuing to wear contact lenses in such cases can worsen the condition and prolong the healing process.

Poor Contact Lens Hygiene

Proper hygiene is crucial when handling contact lenses. Always wash your hands before touching your lenses, use fresh contact lens solution for cleaning and storage, and replace your lens case regularly (at least every three months).

Avoid using tap water to clean your lenses, as it can introduce harmful microorganisms. If you have not been following these guidelines, remove your contact lenses and consult your eye care professional for guidance on proper care.

Sleeping or Napping

Sleeping with contact lenses in, even during short naps, increases the risk of eye infections. When you sleep, your eyes produce less oxygen and fewer tears, which can lead to dryness, irritation, and infection. Always remove your contact lenses before sleeping and consider using lubricating eye drops to maintain moisture levels in your eyes.

Prolonged Computer Use and Digital Eye Strain

Extended periods of computer use can lead to digital eye strain, causing dryness, redness, and discomfort. When using a computer or other digital devices, it's essential to take regular breaks and practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. If your eyes feel tired or strained, consider removing your contact lenses and giving your eyes a rest.

Expired or Damaged Lenses

Using expired or damaged contact lenses can put your eyes at risk for infections and other complications. Always inspect your lenses before inserting them and replace them according to the recommended schedule. If you notice any damage or irregularities, discard the lens and consult your eye care professional for a replacement.

Conclusion

Preventing eye infections and maintaining optimal eye health are essential for contact lens wearers. By understanding when to avoid wearing contact lenses, practicing proper lens care, and consulting with your eye care professional, you can minimize the risk of infections and enjoy clear, comfortable vision.

Don't hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional if you have any concerns or questions about your contact lenses or eye health. They are there to help and guide you in maintaining the best possible vision and eye care practices.