Is it Safe To Wear Contact Lenses Everyday | MY Vision Eye Clinic

Contact lenses are a popular alternative to glasses for those who want to correct their vision without having to wear glasses. They are a great option for people who want to look and feel their best without the hassle of glasses. But it's important to understand that contact lenses are medical devices, and it's essential to follow proper safety guidelines in order to avoid eye problems. So, is it safe to wear contact lenses every day? We will discuss everything about the uses and benefits of contact lenses and will answer the question if it is safe to wear contact lenses every day. Before that, let’s understand what are Contact Lenses.

What are Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are thin, curved lenses that are worn directly on the eye's surface to correct vision or to change the appearance of the eye. They are made of a flexible, transparent material and come in different types, such as soft, hard, and coloured lenses. Contact lenses are typically worn daily and removed nightly, although some can be worn continuously for up to a month.

Types of Contact Lenses

Soft Contact Lenses: Soft contact lenses are the most popular lens type and are made of flexible plastic. They are designed to be comfortable and to allow oxygen to pass through to the eyes.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses: These lenses are made of a hard plastic material that lets oxygen pass through to the eyes. RGP lenses are not as comfortable as soft lenses but tend to provide better vision correction.
Hybrid Contact Lenses: Hybrid lenses combine the comfort of soft lenses with the visual acuity of RGP lenses. These lenses are often used for people with high prescriptions or irregular corneas.
Extended-Wear Contact Lenses: Extended-wear lenses are designed to be worn longer than disposable lenses. These lenses are often used for people with dry eyes or allergies.
Disposable Contact Lenses: Disposable lenses are designed to be worn for a short period, usually one to two weeks. After the period of time is up, they should be thrown away and replaced with a new pair.
Specialty Contact Lenses: These lenses are specially designed for people with certain eye conditions, such as astigmatism, keratoconus, and presbyopia. These lenses are often custom-made for the individual.

How long can I wear my contacts?

Contact lenses are usually designed to be worn daily for up to 14 to 16 hours. However, your eye doctor may recommend that you wear them for a shorter time. It is important to follow your eye doctor’s instructions and replace your lenses according to their recommended schedule.

What are the risks of wearing contact lenses?

Dry Eyes: Wearing contact lenses can cause dry eyes due to decreased tear production and limited oxygen reaching the eyes.
Eye Infections: Poor hygiene or contact lens misuse can lead to serious eye infections, including bacterial and fungal infections.
Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience an allergic reaction to the contact lens material or solutions used to care for them.
Scratched Cornea: Improper application or removal of contact lenses can cause scratches on the cornea, a condition known as corneal abrasion.
Vision Loss: Wearing contact lenses for too long or not following the doctor’s instructions can lead to decreased vision or even vision loss.

How to wear contact lenses?

It is important to know how to wear contact lenses to ensure maximum comfort and avoid eye infection risk. Wearing contacts that are not properly fitted can cause discomfort and can lead to the lenses becoming dislodged or even lost in the eye. This can cause abrasions and other injuries to the eye and potentially lead to serious eye infections. Here is the step-by-step process to wear the contact lenses:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel.
Open the lens case and fill it with a new contact lens solution.
Place the lens on your fingertip and inspect it for any damage or debris.
Place the lens on your eye and gently move it into place with your finger.
Once the lens is in place, close your eye and gently move your finger around it to ensure it is comfortable.
Repeat the process with the other eye.
If the lens feels uncomfortable, remove it and inspect it before re-inserting it.
When you’re done wearing the lenses, remove them, clean them, and store them in the lens case with a new solution.

Is It Safe To Wear Contact Lenses Everyday - The Conclusion

In conclusion, contact lenses are a popular and convenient way to correct vision, but they are also medical devices that require proper care and attention. While wearing contact lenses every day is generally safe, it is essential to follow the recommended guidelines for wear and replacement to avoid potential risks such as eye infections, corneal abrasions, and vision loss. It is important to consult with your eye doctor to determine the best type of contact lens for your needs and to receive instructions on how to wear and care for them properly. So, to answer the question, "Is it safe to wear contact lenses every day?" - Yes, it can be safe, but only when done so responsibly and under the guidance of an eye care professional.

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