Contact lenses: 7 mistakes that can cause eye infections

Introduction

Contact lenses are a comfortable and effective way to correct vision, but they require consistent hygiene. Because they sit directly on the surface of the eye, improper handling can lead to irritation, inflammation or infections.

One of the most serious complications is microbial keratitis, an infection of the cornea that can be caused by bacteria, fungi or other microorganisms. The risk increases when lenses are worn for too long or are not cleaned and stored properly.

Below you'll find 7 contact lens mistakes to avoid and the habits that help keep your eyes healthy.

01 Why is contact lens care so important?

Contact lenses are medical devices. Although they are usually safe when used as directed, poor hygiene can increase the risk of inflammation and infection of the cornea.

If you notice unusual discomfort, it is best to remove your lenses and not wear them again until you know what is going on.

02 Mistake 1: sleeping with your lenses in

Falling asleep in your contact lenses increases the time the cornea stays covered and can raise the risk of complications. Unless your eye care professional has specifically prescribed a lens type and an overnight wearing schedule, take them out before you sleep.

03 Mistake 2: touching your lenses without washing and drying your hands

Hands can transfer microorganisms, cosmetic residue, oil or dirt to the lens. Before putting them in or taking them out, wash your hands well with soap and water and dry them completely with a clean, lint-free towel.

• Wash your hands before touching your lenses.
• Dry them completely.
• Avoid handling them after touching creams, makeup or dirty surfaces.
• Keep your nails clean and avoid scratching the lens or your eye.

04 Mistake 3: letting your lenses come into contact with water

Tap water, pools, the sea, showers and hot tubs can contain microorganisms capable of causing infections. Water can also change the shape of some soft lenses and make them stick to the cornea.

• Take your lenses out before swimming.
• Don't shower with them in.
• Never rinse or store them in water.
• Don't use saliva to wet them.

05 Mistake 4: reusing or "topping off" the solution in the case

Adding fresh solution on top of what was left from the day before makes your disinfection routine less effective. Empty the case every time and use fresh solution following the manufacturer's instructions.

• Don't mix fresh solution with used solution.
• Don't replace disinfecting solution with saline.
• Don't use expired solutions.
• Follow the disinfection time listed on the product.

06 Mistake 5: neglecting your lens case

The case can also build up microorganisms. After using it, clean it with the recommended solution, rub and rinse it, and let it air-dry upside down with the caps off.

As a practical rule, the CDC recommends replacing your case with a new one at least every three months, or sooner if it is damaged or contaminated.

07 Mistake 6: wearing your lenses longer than recommended

Every lens has a wearing and replacement schedule. Wearing a daily lens for more than one day, or stretching a lens designed to be replaced sooner for weeks or months, can lead to deposits, irritation and complications.

If you feel dryness, discomfort or your vision gets worse, take your lenses out and wear your backup glasses until you get advice.

08 Mistake 7: ignoring pain, a red eye or blurred vision

One of the riskiest habits is to keep wearing your lenses when the eye is already showing signs of irritation or infection. Pain, intense redness, light sensitivity, discharge or blurred vision should never be treated as normal.

• Take your lenses out immediately.
• Don't put them back in to "see if it went away".
• Don't use medicated eye drops on your own.
• Get eye care, especially if there is pain or reduced vision.

09 A simple routine for wearing contact lenses more safely

• Wash and dry your hands before handling them.
• Only use the solution recommended for your type of lens.
• Keep your lenses away from water.
• Take them out before sleeping, unless a professional specifically tells you otherwise.
• Replace your case regularly.
• Follow the replacement schedule.
• Carry backup glasses.
• Have regular checkups with your eye care professional.

Besides following these steps, always use the prescription and type of lens you were given. Decorative lenses also require professional fitting and care.

10 Frequently asked questions

Can I wash my lenses with tap water?

No. Water does not disinfect lenses and can contain microorganisms capable of causing eye infections.

Can saline solution disinfect my lenses?

No. Saline can be used for rinsing with certain systems, but it does not replace a solution designed to disinfect contact lenses.

How often should I replace my lens case?

The CDC recommends replacing it at least once every three months, as well as cleaning it and letting it dry properly after each use.

What should I do if my eye turns red while I'm wearing my lens?

Take the lens out. If the redness is intense, or there is pain, light sensitivity, discharge or blurred vision, get an eye evaluation.

Can I wear the same lenses again after an infection?

Don't decide on your own. The specialist may recommend throwing away the lenses, the case and certain products to reduce the risk of reinfection.

Conclusion

Most contact lens problems can be reduced with consistent habits: clean, dry hands, fresh solution, a clean case, no contact with water and sticking to wearing and replacement schedules.

If you develop pain, a red eye, light sensitivity or blurred vision, take your lenses out and get evaluated. Don't wait for a possible infection to get worse before having your eyes checked.