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  • Important Things to Know About Contact Lenses

    Reviewed By Brenda Pagan-Duran MD
    Published Mar. 01, 2016

    Lenses that are not properly cleaned and disinfected increase the risk of eye infection. Any lens that is removed from the eye needs to be cleaned and disinfected before it is reinserted. Your eye care professional will discuss the best type of cleansing system for you, depending on the type of lens you use, any allergies you might have and whether your eye tends to form protein deposits.

    Care of contact lenses includes cleaning their case, since it is a potential source of infection. The case should be rinsed with contact lens solution and allowed to air dry.

    Learn more about proper contact lens care.

    Lenses that are old or not properly fitted may scratch the eye or cause blood vessels to grow into the cornea. Because a lens can warp over time, and the cornea can change shape, the fit of the contact lens and the power should be re-evaluated on a regular basis. Your return visits will be scheduled depending on the condition of your eyes and visual needs.

    You may not be a good candidate for contacts if you have:

    • Frequent eye infections;
    • Severe allergies;
    • Dry eye that is resistant to treatment;
    • A very dusty work environment; or
    • An inability to handle and care for the lenses.

    Any eyedrops you use can interact with all types of contact lenses. It is best to avoid the use of eyedrops while wearing lenses, except for wetting drops recommended by your eye doctor.

    Homemade saline (salt water) solutions have been linked to serious corneal infections and should not be used.