Eye Infections with Contact Lenses

Eyes are a very sensitive part of the body and eye infection from contact lens use can be problematic, if lenses are not used carefully. Contact lenses by their very nature reduce the amount of oxygen that can enter the eye. Even gas permeable lenses reduce the amount of oxygen that can get through to the eye. A decrease in oxygen entering the eye increases the risk of eye infection. To avoid infection, the following steps can be taken:

Cleanliness - Hands must be thoroughly washed before contact lenses are placed in the eye and before removal from the eye.
Solution - Contact lenses can be cleaned, disinfected and stored in a variety of solutions. These solutions should be used with care and expiry dates, strictly adhered to.
Lens Type - Daily wear contact lenses are thought to carry less risk than extended wear lenses. If you have sensitive eyes, then you may be better suited to daily wear lenses.
Storage - Ensure to store lenses in specifically designed storage boxes and follow the advice of your eye care provider. Storage box’s should be replaced on a regular basis.
Uncomfortable Lenses - Do not wear lenses, which feel uncomfortable or different to how they normally feel.
Self Use - Contact lenses should never be shared, as this will increase the risk of infection, dramatically.

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