6 Great Remedies for Contact Lens Discomfort & Dry Eyes

It would have been impossible to wear contact lenses without the tear film that is present in your eyes. They lubricate eyes, help flushing out the irritants and ensure that contact lenses float smoothly. People with dry eyes don’t produce enough tears or suffer from high evaporation rate. With tears it is not only the quantity, but quality too that makes a difference. In case you have dirty tear film (excessively oily film) contact lenses will be uncomfortable for you because of your eyes staying dry. To help relieve dryness, practice the following remedies & continue wearing contact lenses for color change and vision correction.

Also Read: [Home Remedies for Eye Strain with Contact Lenses]

1. Re-Wetting Drops

Using rewetting drops help the dryness go away temporarily. However, make sure you get contact lens compatible eye drops. Using in compatible eye drops may fade or discolor contact lenses which will do more bad than good.

Also carefully read the label. Eye drops that are advertised to eliminate the “redness” do not combat against the traditional dryness of the eyes.

2. Healthy Food & Nutritional Supplements

People with dry eyes should increase the intake of water and focus more on consuming herbal teas. Keeping a good balance between omega fatty acids, consuming green leafy and raw vegetables also help. In severe dryness nutritional supplements prescribed by doctor help improving the tear film’s quality.

3. Disposable Contact Lenses

Some people suffer from dry eyes because of oily aka dirty tear film. These eyes produce more oil than needed due to which cornea is always coated with a thin oily film. Hence; dryness is observed as tears are unable to wet the surface. This facilitates protein and lipids buildup on contact lenses that adds to discomfort. Using daily disposable contact lenses help getting rid of discomfort caused by dirty contact lenses.

4. Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses

Today contact lenses that allow greater oxygen permeability are available. They are made from silicone hydrogel material that stay moist and pliable longer than other soft contact lenses. They are very comfortable and are a perfect solution for dry eyes. Since they are made from advanced technology; expect a slight price hike.

5. Contact Lenses with Water Content

Water content in contact lenses plays a prominent role in contact lens manufacturing. Contact lenses hold different amount of water. For people with healthy eyes, water content doesnot really seem to bother but people with dry eyes may find it difficult to get adjusted with contact lenses holding water content upto 50%. If your lenses fit you nicely, but still sting; it is probably the water content causing trouble. Switching between different brands or talking to your doctor may help.

6.Contact Lens Care Products

Always choose your contact lens accessories and care products wisely. Only use pharmacy formulated eye drops and soaking solution. Contact lens solutions may contain preservatives to which some people are strongly allergic. Reduce chemicals by cutting down contact lens solutions to one multi-purpose solution that soaks, rinses and disinfects. Using multi-purpose solution also prevents drug interaction. If you develop allergy over the course of time against a preservative used in your all-time favorite contact lens solution; talk to your doctor for further guidance. 

I Lost My Contact Lens Case: Emergency Over-Night Contact Lens Storage

You often lose your contact lens cases, it is frequently common. Bitter truth; nothing can be done to prevent the loss, hands down! You lose your contact lens cases at a picnic, or when moving to a friend’s for a sleep over. Misplacing or forgetting your cases back at home whilst you are travelling or enjoying at a holiday is drastic. You only realize you are lagging your case when it is already too late to keep the lenses in eyes. Instead of creating panic we encourage you to take a chill pill, as some of the users have come up with brilliant life-hackers!

Depending on the location, you would like to try one of the given alternatives for your lost contact lens case

1. I forgot my Contact Lens Case at Home

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You are staying at your friend’s home who does not wear contact lenses, you are trapped. Forgetting your contacts case back at home may have caused you trouble otherwise, but fortunately we have some tips to save you.

In case you are in a town where you can’t go to the nearest shop in search of an ordinary contact case; we advise you to use egg cups, found in every kitchen to soak your contact lenses. However, most importantly don’t forget to wash & sterilize them. Pat them dry & use your regular multi-purpose contact lens solution to soak your contact lenses. Alternatively, you can also use measuring spoons. Be very careful about not mixing your prescriptions though.

2. I Lost Caps of My Contact Lenses

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Hikers, bikers and adventurers tend to lose their contact lens cases and caps when they try to handle them during the journey. It is also impossible to get a contact lens case replacement at the heights. When you are off to the camp again, try to look for a 20 ounce bottle in your back pack. Redditor Westleyh suggests using a cap of 20 ounce drink. Though all contact lens cases are not same size, a 20 ounce cap is standard to most of them. Try fitting them over your lens case.

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Or, store your lenses directly in the caps by covering them with a glass. Be very careful that your caps and glass both are free from even the tiniest of the water droplets. Covering them with glass will prevent trapping flies and dust particles during the night!

Read These 4 Points if you are Looking for Contact Lenses to Change Appearance

I. Fairy Cara Red

I-Codi Colors Of The Wind No 23 Turquoise

Sweety Nudy 3 Tones Grey

Lens Story Dolly + Red

Contact lenses help you achieve the look of your dreams. They create dolly illusion & make your eyes enlarged that shine bright. Colored contact lenses do not necessarily come in prescription as they are aimed at changing your eye color than fixing your vision. If you are looking for colored contact lenses that bring a pleasant change to your personality then continue reading below:

1. Colored contact lenses are slightly expensive than regular contacts. Since regular contact lenses don’t carry a design or tint in them; they are produced cheaply. On the other hand colored contact lenses boast a wide range of designs and multiple hues that are incorporated ingeniously to help you create a realistic eye effect yet an effect that is out of the world.

2. Colored lenses feature patterns, specifically lines & dots that are arranged radially to create harmony of vision. Lines & dots also replicate the natural pattern of human iris due to which the overall effect remains sophisticatedly genuine.

3. Contrary to the regular contact lenses; the significant feature of colored contacts is the “Limbal Ring”. This limbal ring surrounds the outer edge and is often solid, darker & bold. The ring is most prominent during infancy which gradually fades with age. Colored lenses help you regain the limbal ring that certainly helps you hide your calendar age.

4. Colored contact lenses are available in both plano and prescription. Plano lenses are zero power, so they are only resorted to when you need a change in your eye color. Depending on your mood, you have the liberty to either go for a fierce color change effect or stay subtle. Prescription contact lenses on the other help correct refractive index error and are available for hyperopia, myopia & astigmatism. Prices may vary from type to type and brand to brand.

There are endless possibilities with colored lenses. Hail to advanced technology that has made it possible for even people with sensitive eyes to opt for colored contacts. Today, with silicone hydrogel material; more comfortable, soft & oxygen friendly contacts are being produced that keep your eyes hydrated. Whilst immensely beautifying your eyes; 21st century lenses also strive to maintain optimum vision. Don’t forget to meet your eye care professional before getting yourself the first pair!

Are you a Traveler? Fix your Eye Sight with Contact Lenses

Let not the poor-vision keep you from exploring the treasures of the world. Travelling is more fun when you actually live in the moment & breathe in the spot. It is much more than capturing life-less stills in the lens of your DSLR. If your vision is not right, you are going to miss half of the fun. All the globe-trotting travelers are well-aware of how poor eye sight can destroy your journey. Before packing your backpack, pack your contact lens’ travel-kit. Contact lenses will ensure crustal clear vision with enhanced peripheral vision. Without being fogged-up or smudged, unlike glasses, contact lenses will continue to surprise you throughout your journey.

Contact Lenses are good for adventurous out-stationed activities. Either you have passion for snorkeling or are boisterous to enjoy tandem-jumps; contact lenses are the best prosthetic devices. They don’t get affected by the weather change. They don’t carry the risk of falling off whilst you enjoy a bungee jump nor do they threat injuries in case of accidents. Contact lenses do need diligent care & meticulous handling that your glasses might not require. Unfortunately, glasses block the peripheral vision that kills the joy when you are enjoying exploring the scenic beauty or are picking the best of shells from under the sea.

Also Read: [Pack your Bag Wisely]

Under certain conditions; you might need to wear protective eye wear with contact lenses, such as when you are under-water for snorkeling or when you are about to throw yourself for a free-fall. Contact lenses can easily bear the temperature differences as they are regulated by the temperature of your body. Therefore, when you decide to go on a vacation; simply don’t forget to check on contact lens supplies. Get a travel-kit ready that holds a mirror & carries a mini solution bottle, a set of tweezers and a plunger to help you wear and remove contact lenses. Prescription contact lenses help you get your contact lenses on the exact prescription provided by your eye care professional.

What will you be preferring for vision correction while you go hiking or lay-flat for wander-lust? Glasses can be a cheaper option but they risk injuries and obstruct vision. Contact lenses on the other hand are safer & the choice of world’s known globe-trotters. 

6 Best Tips to Protect your Eyes & Vision

Eyes are a gift that you are bestowed with, just once in a lifetime. There are many external agents that prose dangers to eyes deteriorating the vision gradually. From dust, smoke, UV rays, contact lenses, glasses to unhygienic practices & everything that your eyes absorb from the environment plays a negative role until you make strong efforts to maintain good health by meticulous cleansing of contact lenses and excellent hygienic habits. As per Optegra Eye Health care report; 4 out of 5 persons in Britain worry about protecting their eye health but only less than half of the population actually visits eye doctor for regular eye tests. Follow the tips below to keep your vision sharp & eyes perfect in shape.

1. Be Careful with Makeup

Makeup must be removed every night before going to bed. Makeup particles can come in contact with your eyes that may deposit on your cornea. Over the course of time, the debris can cause infection leading to vision loss.

2. Remove Contact Lenses

Don’t go to bed with contact lenses. Sleeping in with contact lenses is strictly prohibited. Since contact lenses block oxygen transmission, wearing them at night whilst you sleep may create complications that may be difficult to treat.

3. Wear Sun Glasses Along with UV Protection Contact Lenses

UV exposure is harmful to eyes the same way it is for your body. Sun glasses that actually have the tendency of intercepting UV rays may be quite expensive. Depending on your budget you can either get UV protection sun glasses or prepare an extra layer of protection by wearing UV interception contact lenses along with locally available shades. UV interception contact lenses block harmful sun-rays reaching your eyes which prevent from pre-mature ageing and macular degeneration.

Be very careful when you go snow skiing during winter and tanning in summer. Over exposure to sun may cause long term damage such as skin cancer

4. Always Remember: Water & Contact Lenses are a No-Match

Water and contact lenses should never be brought into contact. Water contains a virus “Acanthamoeba” that may cause a very rare but fatal infection “Acanthamoeba Keratitus”. This devours human cornea and it often is too late before you could make a difference.

Practice caution at washing face, swimming, taking a hot tub bath, and whilst you surf wearing contact lenses.

5. Quit Smoking

Smoking is injurious to health. It leads to corneal infiltrates, dryness and irritation that makes wearing contact lenses difficult.

Also Read: [Smokers wearing Contact Lenses are at Greater Risk of Damages]

6. Keep Yourself Hydrated

There is no denial to the fact that water is life. Keeping yourself hydrated is the key to stay healthy & fit. Drink plenty of water everyday as dehydration can lead to dryness & irritable eyes. Wearing contact lenses with dry eyes syndrome may induce eye sores and affect contact lens tolerance negatively.

Omega 3 fatty acids & nutritional supplements further help improving eye sight. 

Is it Safe to Wear Soft Contact Lenses whilst Boxing?

Contact lenses have been the preferred mode to achieve visual acuity. Sportsmen or athletes find it way more comfortable to wear contact lenses in ball games, racket games, cycling & for even adventurous stunts & activities i.e. Bungee jumping, free-fall Tandem jump or Snorkeling. Boxing on the other hand, is a sport that involves strong hits & serious blows that have possible risk of lenses being knocked out. Are contact lenses really safe to spar in?

Also Read: [Contact Lenses VS Glasses for Sports]

Under right minds no boxer will consider glasses as an option. A boxer does not need to have 20/20 vision to compete. This means that fighters must have to make a selection between the two options for sparring with their partners when in the ring. Glasses can cause irrevocable damage if on a hit they get broken. The shattered pieces of the glasses can injure you, your partner or anyone standing close by. This is why glasses are prohibited to be used in the ring. Soft contact lenses on the other hand pose minimum risk.

According to England Fighting club, boxers can wear soft contact lenses. However, losing contact lenses during a bout means losing the bout. It is fortunately rare for a contact lens to fall off. Some blows at the head or punches at face can slightly dislodge your contact lenses but they are bound to relocate themselves within a fraction of a second.

Best Type of Soft Contact Lenses for Boxing

Dan Hardy Former English Mixed Martial Artist wearing Red Contacts

The best contact lenses for fighting is “Hydrogel Contact Lenses”. These lenses retain moisture, prevent your eyes from dryness & irritants. Hydrogel Silicone lenses boast smoother surfaces with less ridges that deter the accumulation of bacteria & protein.

All kinds of sports train us to overcome our limitations. Visual impairment must not deter us from life’s enthusiasm. Use soft contact lenses to combat the vision problems and even for sports as they are less likely to get dislodged than glasses. 

Derek Brunson, a professional MMA fighter wears contact lenses and has never had an issue. He had tweeted back in 2012 whilst discussing a row about Ohio Athletic Commission. Slightly short-sighted people can easily sport soft contact lenses in the ring as it does not require precise vision to spar. If only you are severely impaired you will be barred from a fight. 

Can Contact Lenses Cause Lesion on Cornea?

Soft contact lenses are very safe and comfortable to wear. They cannot cause lesions on the surface of the cornea unless you mishandle them. FDA colored contacts are made from soft hydrophilic plastic- “water-loving” known as “hydrogels”. They absorb significant quantity of water that keeps them soft & supple. Due to the water content, contact lenses let oxygen pass through your eyes which is somewhat obstructed by the contact lenses at the first place.

Contact Lens Related Corneal Ulcers- Myth or a Fact?

Contact lenses are prosthetic medical devices- failing to understand which can trigger serious response & cause irrevocable damage. Contact lens related injuries are though very rare; hospitals do witness a soaring number of eye injuries every year at the beginning & the end, when people are most likely to doze off or party, ignoring the warnings issued by the doctors.

A corneal ulcer is basically a resultant product of the bacterial growth. It is an infection caused by bacteria, virus, fungi or parasitic contamination. People who wear colored contact lenses must stay vigilant about any changes occurring in the eyes or vision. Symptoms below may indicate corneal abrasions, which call for prompt medical assistance

1. Blurry or hazy vision
2. Bloodshot, itchy eyes
3. Discharge
4. Sensitivity to the light
5. White patch on the cornea
6. Difficulty wearing contact lenses

Preventing Corneal Ulcers

1. As mentioned earlier, contact lenses are not directly associated for the lesions, provided they are approved by FDA. Medical certifications such as CE & ISO further ensure that your invested product is safe for your health. However, after a consumer purchases a product it becomes their responsibility to follow the instructions that come printed on the label. Contact lenses are not a toy accessories but medical devices. Thus, they should be taken care of and must be disinfected thoroughly after each wear.
2. Using pharmacy manufactured contact lens solution is the key to prevention from ocular damages. People who are into habits of making their own home made solutions for contact lens soaking, rewetting & disinfection are most likely to suffer from corneal abrasions caused by parasitic growth.
3. Never use saliva or tap water to rinse your contact lenses. Tap water contains contaminants and a parasite named acanthamoeba that devours human cornea.
4. Never sleep in contact lenses. Contact lenses when left in eyes overnight may have unappealing effects on the health of your eyes.

Human brain loves convenience and avoid hard work. It ignores that everything comes with pros & cons. Even an apparently harmless toothbrush when not rinsed or replaced properly may cause mouth ulcers. Be preventive as being warned is being armed. Wear only authorized & branded 100% genuine Korean circle lenses to prevent yourself from ocular disasters. 

3 Helpful Tips to Improve the State of your Dry Eyes during winter

Tear film is responsible for keeping eyes moist and lubricated. When the tears begin to evaporate more quickly than the average rate; dryness is experienced, that never comes alone. Winter eye dryness is accompanied by stinging, burning, inflammation or with difficulty in blinking eyes. An annoying sensation of foreign body keeps the patient disturbed. To improve the condition, artificial tears may help, or in severe conditions, getting an advice from your eye care expert is recommended.

1. Dry winter air exacerbates dryness when you are outside whereas the use of heaters disturbs the humidity level inside home & office. If you wear contact lenses for vision correction, you might want to install humidifier in your home & office.
2. Using rewetting drops such as Complete Blink n Clean, relieves dryness and makes it easy to tolerate contact lenses for the next couple of hours
3. Quit smoking & intake of alcoholic drinks. Smoke from the cigarette may lead to dryness & irritation. The chemicals from cigarette when enter the blood-stream restrict blood-flow to retina which causes bloodshot & itchy eyes.

Keep yourself at a decent distance from fireplaces. Increase intake of omega 3 fatty acids, eat vegetables & drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. Healthy eyes are window to the healthy soul. Colored contact lenses will float smoothly when your eyes are moist & are coated with tear-film in right consistency. For comfortable contact lens wear, remember; lubrication is the key!

Disturbance in Tear Chemistry Affects Contact Lens Tolerance

Our eyes are coated with a preventive tear film that keeps eyes lubricated and free from bacterial contamination. The very same tear film helps contact lenses float over the cornea. Every time we blink, a new and fresh supply of tears is released that ensures, contact lenses stay soft in our eyes. It also helps flushing irritants out of the eye. Disturbance in the tear film lays adverse effects on contact lens tolerance. Sadly; there are several factors that contribute negatively to reduce the production of the tear film. To continue wearing your contact lens without discomfort, take measures to keep your eyes lubricated the entire day.

Factors that Destroys the Tear Film Balance

1. Air conditioners, heaters & wind all add to eye dryness. They evaporate tears quickly that leaves eyes dry & stingy. When the tears formation is reduced; eyes are barred to blink, which may cause problems with contact lenses
2. Smoking, medications & birth control pills reduce contact lens tolerance.
3. Alcoholic drinks & drugs reduce tear-formation that causes discomfort with contact lenses
4. Working on computers, playing video games, or staring long at LCDs reduce the typical average blink rate. This leads to dryness which aggravates foreign body sensation in eyes.

How to Improve Tear Formation for Comfortable Contact Lens Wear

1. Don’t wait for your eyes to burn or sting for using lubricating drops. Keep instilling eye drops at regular intervals for an increased tolerance with colored contacts
2. Make use of humidifiers to balance the humidity with heaters. Hot air burns the moisture in the building that eventually cause dryness to both the body and eyes.
3. Wear protective eye wear such as glasses and shades when travelling.
4. Drink water to keep your eyes hydrated.
5. Increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are not naturally produced by the body. Studies prove that omega-3 relieves dryness & are beneficial to brain, joints and heart muscles.
6. Whilst working on a computer, take frequent breaks. Remember 20-20-20 thumb rule that stresses on a 20 second break after every 20 minutes and looking some 20ft away.

Tear film plays great role in keeping eyes comfortable. When the layer is disrupted, the entire ocular mechanism is disturbed. Eyes feel dry, blurred, inflamed and the stinging sensation is accompanied by hazy vision. Eat fresh vegetables, avoid alcohol, & take annual contact lens examination.

8 Handling Instructions for Soft Contact Lenses

Colored contact lenses either soft cosmetic lenses or prescription contacts are medical devices, and must be handled likewise. Meticulous disinfection is necessary in order to keep your eyes safe from possible contact lens related injuries. Follow these contact lens handling instructions to make the best of your contact lenses and help them live their fullest.

1. Wash your hands before touching contact lenses. Avoid cream based hand-wash and soaps
2. Inserting contact lenses should be the first step of your getting-ready routine. Make sure your hands; especially finger pads are still clean and dry free from possible lint and cream/lotion.
3. Take out contact lenses and rest them on your finger pad or over plunger. Inspect, carefully & closely for any notches, rip & tear before inserting them in eyes
4. Insert in eyes after thorough inspection. Blink your eyes and allow your contact lenses to adjust. If they feel fine; you may proceed with your routine.
5. At removal, wash your soft contact lenses with multi-purpose solution. Multi-purpose solution takes care of everything from keeping your contact lenses moist to the breakdown of protein, lipids & removal of bacterial accumulation.
6. Once every week, make sure you rub and rinse your contact lenses for thorough cleansing.
7. Keep your contact lenses soaked in the solution. Make sure they are fully immersed in the solution before you cap the cases back.
8. Only use contact lens compatible re-wetting drops to moisten or lubricate your eyes.

Contact lenses are more reliable and comfortable these days. With several of the options available, contact lenses today ensure crystal clear vision with enhanced peripheral vision and greater field of view. Provided, your purchased contacts are FDA approved; they must not cause abrasions or hurt your eyes. Follow these handling tips to form a barrier as a prevention from the risk of infections. 

How to Remove a Stuck Contact Lens?

Before you panic, please read carefully that contact lenses can never get lost in your eyes. However, they may be dislodged or get stuck due to them being dried out. Contact lenses may turn dry because of several reasons for instance over-wearing them or unfavorable weather conditions. To remove a stuck contact lens, sanitize your hands first by washing with soap and water followed by rinsing your finger pads by multi-purpose contact lens solution.

Removing Stuck Contact Lens from Eyes

Sandra Michi 

• To remove a stuck contact lens from your eyes the first thing you should do after washing hands is to grab your re-wetting drops. The re-wetting drops lubricate eyes which may help to flush your contact lenses out. When tear chemistry is disturbed due to windy weather or smoke; the lubrication is compromised due to which tears’ formation is reduced. Tears help keeping lenses float over your cornea. Therefore, whenever you notice your eyes are feeling dry; simply instill few drops of contact lens compliant eye drops to keep eyes moist.
• After instilling eye drops, look in the opposite direction where you suspect your lens is. Close your eyes and gently massage eyelid over the area where it feels stuck. This should help loosen your lens and to return it back on the iris.
• Repeat these steps until the lens comes out loose. Please, do not panic because eye’s structure won’t let contact lenses get lost permanently. Stay persistent as it may take a duration of 15 minutes until the lens becomes re-hydrated and begins to move freely.
• As the lens gets back to its right position, take it out you normally would. It is recommended to wash your eyes later on with sterile saline solution or with your regular eye drops. If unfortunately after removing stuck lenses your eyes sting, become red or irritated; visit your eye doctor immediately. These signs are indicative of corneal abrasion.

Keep your nails neatly filed. You wouldn’t want to scratch your cornea or tear your lenses by your jagged edges of the nails whilst it still is in the eye. 

Back to School with New Pair of Contact Lenses: Safety Check for Everyone.

As the new semester begins, students are back to school with fresh supplies from sports physicals to stationery & a new eye exam. Teens around the globe find it more convenient to wear contact lenses than glasses as contact-lenses don’t hurt their appearance. School students resist wearing glasses because of the fear of being ridiculed. As per experts; contact lenses are more handy & cost-effective than the other counterpart i.e. glasses. Rejoining school brings lots of excitement from meeting friends to sharing lunch & exchanging the goods with each other. This is the point, where parents & teachers must come-forward to reinforce that contact lenses should never be a part of the game.

Though contact lenses come with their own reservations; they are the most acceptable mode for vision correction. Anyone can wear circle contacts irrespective of the age bracket they fall in. Doctors suggest kids over 8 years can safely wear them. As a food for thought; age actually has nothing to do with wearing contact lenses. If a person is mature & “responsible” enough to take diligent care of contacts; they can safely wear circle lenses. It is said that teens are considered far more responsible in cleaning & disinfecting their contacts than adults. Adults become more casual with their contacts and take the entire regimen for granted whereas young newbies are more concerned & careful about the things they have been freshly introduced to. Unfortunately, teens love to share & swap everything. This is why, as they rejoin the school; they must be reminded about contact lenses’ safety considerations. Contact lenses are personal medical devices even if they are not prescription. They should never be shared, swapped or resold once they are used.

Also Read: What is Cheaper: Contact Lenses or Glasses?

Contact lenses are favored by students as they allow better peripheral vision, management with the changing weather & liberty to mobilize. Furthermore, they are cheaper than glasses even if you purchase them with the option of premium features such as UV intercepting contacts or hydrogel that ensure maximum oxygen transmission. Above all; with daily disposable lenses you can cut the cost dramatically to only $1 per day without having to take care of them. Go back to school with a fresh pair of contact lenses; just be considerate enough to prove yourself a responsible & mature student!

Don’t Take Second Chance with your Contact Lenses-CDC Warns Customers

Contact lenses are the most comfortable medical devices that could ever happen to you. They are not only sight-saving devices but also serve to accentuate your peepers. Unfortunately, almost all of the contact lens wearers knowingly adopt the careless attitude towards their eyes and contacts. Even your inexpensive tooth brush comes with an expiry tag. Then why take a second chance with contact lenses? Ophthalmologists reinforce to follow contactlens care tips & strictly warn against taking them for granted.

When in Doubt, Take Out

If you are already habitual of wearing contact lenses, it won’t take you long to discriminate between the discomforts caused by wearing flawed circle lenses or by something that got trapped in eyes. The easy way is to take your contacts out whenever in doubt. Don’t give second thoughts- just take your contacts out when random & swift blinking does not help.

Remember the Date you replaced your Contact Lens Case?

If your brain can’t help you reminding the time you changed your contact lens case, it is time to do it now. Contact lens cases are the actual breeding bed of germs. They harbor germs and create a slimy layer of living bacteria. Your old & grimed contact lens cases may transfer the accumulating bacteria to your contact lenses. This is why doctors suggest to replace your cases every 3 months or to sterilize them in case you fail to grab a new case.

Consider No Alternate for Physical Eye Exams

There is no alternate to an actual eye test. Though some online eye exams are now available, the efficacy is yet under consideration. Don’t risk your vision; visit your doctor once annually. A thorough eye checkup does not only keep a check on your vision impairment but also is a good way to rule out the chances of any contact lens hidden injuries. There is no substitute to your eye care professional services. Schedule it today!

Sleepy? Take your Contacts OUT

Sleeping in contact lenses is never a legit excuse. Contact lenses deprive eyes from the sufficient oxygen supply. Sleeping in contacts further make it worse. If you are dizzy or strained it is better to take your circle lenses out. Remember, no second chances?

Cheap Contact Lenses Deal? Give No Second Thought

Don’t fall for too-good-to-be-true kind of cheap contact lens deals. An average pair of regular circle lenses should vary between US$19 to US$25. Anything cheaper than this should ring the bells for you. Cheaper contact lenses are substandard, sourced from China contacts that can be lethal for the rest of your life.

It is a customer’s duty to maintain high health standards after purchasing FDA approved lenses. Respect your hard earned money and the only set of your eyes. You don’t want to waste any of these blessings, do you?

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The above suggestions are brought to you by CooperVision in collaboration with CDC.

Winter Eye Care Tips for Contact Lens Wearers

Pastelbat Courtesy

Contact lenses always need ingenious management with weather. In fall you have to adjust your eyes with pollen whereas in summer & winter the longevity of contact lenses is badly affected by the dry air. During winter people suffer from dry eyes syndrome due to abrupt switching from dry indoor air to outside cold & wet air. The tear-film that is responsible to keep your eyes moist & lubricated gets disturbed due to which dryness is exacerbated. Following the tips given below may help you keep your eyes moist all the day long for greater contact lens tolerance.

1. Keep yourself hydrated. In winter people tend to neglect drinking water because of the low perspiration rate. Drinking plenty of water & continuing to consume green salads & cereals keep your body fluids balanced. As a result you get sparkling & well-hydrated eyes.
2. During summer you have to face chilled indoor air and hot plus humid outdoor air. In winter; it is the other way round. The heaters burn the moisture present in the building to modify which you need a humidifier. Do use your sunglasses & hats outside just like you wear in the summer as the low-key sun rays may harm even more when are reflected through snow & icicles.
3. Use artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated especially if you wear colored contact lenses
4. You are more likely to get snuggled up in a cozy kigurumi and comfy couch during long winter nights. Falling asleep watching your favorite movie with a big mug of coffee cunningly turn your eyes dry without even letting you realize. Staring at screen reduces the blink-rate that adds to dryness. Try to blink more frequently & take regular pauses for a minute or two. Instead of coffee, consume green tea or chrysanthemum tea instead of regular chai.
5. Use contact lenses that are able to better hold oxygen. Contact lenses with shorter disposal time help easy management with changing weather.

What symptoms do you suffer from when wearing contact lenses during winter? Please share with us how do you keep it going. 

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Pre Xmas Winter Promotion

Halloween Safety Tips: Synthetic Wigs & Colored Contact Lenses

Halloween transformation lags huge without cosplay wigs and colored contacts. Cosplay makeovers such as Hannah Montanna, Mad-Hatter Clown or pirate require finishing touches through costume wigs. Colored contacts further turns your transformation edgy. However, at Halloween when lanterns, candles & other props add a spooky touch; they also hinder with your lenses & wigs. To prevent accidents and tripping; follow the Halloween safety tips below

1. When wearing costume wigs make sure that wig fits you properly. The lay strands, complimentary pieces such as bangs or fangs must not obstruct your vision.
2. Decorative novelty colored contacts make use of solid pigments that sometimes obstruct vision especially when one is visually impaired. Avoid wearing costume wigs that shed fibers. These fibers mess bad with costume contacts if gotten into eyes.
3. Make sure that synthetic wigs you decide to wear are not very long. Keep your hair tied either in a bun or in a braid. Lose, long open wig fibers can get hooked to the jack-o-lanterns, swords or knives whilst you trespass in a dark alley beside the road side Halloween baubles.
4. Don’t wear wigs that dangle over your eyes, mouth or nose. Don’t let a wig cover your ears either.
5. Stay alert of the surroundings. Synthetic wigs can catch fire via Halloween candles. Novelty contacts don’t let you see clearly. Chances of vision obstruction are higher when you are wearing sclera lenses that cover even the whites.

Halloween is all about fun mingled with thrill. Don’t let it jeopardize your safety. Be wary of the colored contacts & costume wigs you wear. Avoid carrying dangerous weapons. Just be a nice troll & enjoy treating at the end of the day!

3 Mind-Blowing Makeup Hacks using Contact Lens Solution

Contact lens solution holds a lot of benefits. Generally, it is used to rinse & soak circle contacts but this versatile solution rather aims at making your life easier. A contact lens surfactant is basically a sterile buffered saline solution that is known to work wonders for reviving the dead makeup products. This solution has also amazing healing properties that makes it a must-have in every “First-Aid Kit”. Below are the 3 amazing makeup hacks using contact lens solution.

1. Get rid of Gunky Mascara using Contact Lens Solution

Mascara betrays the most. Within a short period of 3 months; it dries out and vanishes. Unless your mascara provides you smooth, clump-free application; the dream of achieving long, fuller lashes remains a dream. The easiest solution to de-clump mascara is to add 5-8 drops of contact lens solution in your mascara container. It also helps cleaning the mascara wand out of beady and old mascara residue.

2. DIY Customized Liquid Eyeliner using Contact Lens Solution

courtesy of stylecraze

High school students love to flaunt every day with a new soft look. Those nerd glasses can totally blow others out when your eyes are lined with a soft, shimmery eye-liner to match your outfit. Unfortunately, the budget constraints keep them off. As a simple solution; mix your favorite eye shadow (preferably powdered/mineral) with the mighty liquid. Mix it and allow it to set for 15 minutes. Alternatively, broken eye shadows can be used.

3. Get rid of Soiled Water-Line for Intense Kohl Application

When applying eye makeup, some of the particles get into eyes soiling your water-line. Eye shadows act as a barrier and prevents intense application of Kohl. For vivid, raven-black & creamy application; clean your water-line using contact solution. Dip a cotton bud in the said liquid and run it along your water-line. It will remove makeup particles & leave your water-line neat clean for deep kohl rimmed eyes.

Note: Contact lens solution that reads “Multi-Purpose Solution” is also safe for the said uses.

3 Mind-Blowing (Alternative) Medical Uses of Contact Lens Solution

Courtesy of expeditionexchange.com

The ordinary contact lens solution that is safe for rinsing & soaking circle contacts has mind-blowing alternative uses that you would regret missing at. Contact lens solution is not to be confused with no-rub multi-purpose solution. Multi-purpose solution that is actually meant to “disinfect” contacts; contain enzymes & chemicals whereas contact lens solution is almost the same as saline solution that has got the closest  formulation of the human tears. Below are the alternative uses of contact lens solution; you would feel sorry, for; you didn’t know.

Also Read: Why shouldn’t I use multi-purpose solution to re-wet eyes?

Solutions that go expire cannot be used to soak or rinse your contacts- not even if they are un-opened. However there are plenty of other uses you could consume your outdated solution in. Expired but unopened solution bottles are still sterile and are safe for external uses. Don’t throw the expired solution- enjoy the miracles it has for you in reserve.

1. Contact Lens Solution as a First Aid Necessity

This solution is an excellent agent to cleanse & wash wounds. Keep an un-opened & unexpired contact lens solution in your first-aid kid. It immediately helps flushing out irritant from eyes whilst ensuring least damage to the corneal tissues. A travel-size first-aid kit should always carry a decent quantity of this solution for camping. It removes dirt & decontaminate minor cuts & scratches with additional benefits of healing tissues.

2. Contact Lens Solution as Nasal Irrigation

Contact lens solution when used as a nasal wash help decongestion. It clears nasal passages of mucus & relieves sinusitis symptoms. A research study proves, that daily irrigation of nasal passages with saline solution/contact lens solution reduces the use of anti-biotics. Directly spray it into the nose, taking care that the opening of the bottle does not come in contact with nose.

3. Contact Lens Solution as an Ear Wash

Congestion in ear due to excessive ear-wax can be washed out using contact lens solution. Mix one part of hydrogen per oxide with one part of the solution. Instill a continuous stream using a regular sterile syringe or few drops into the affected ear. The wax-buildup will rise and bubble-up at the surface to help you with further cleansing.

Contact lens liquid has several other purposes. It serves great in your makeup kit too. For instance; it helps de-clump your dried-out mascara. Stay glued to this place for more amazing uses of the magic solution! 

3 Ways to Manage Colored Contacts in Hazy Weather

Alike spring, autumn & summer patients with refractive index error need to manage their life style in order to stay comfortable during hazy weather, with the type of contact lenses they wear. During haze; smoke or dust particles are suspended most in the air due to which a feeling of discomfort is observed. Trapped foreign particles may even induce burning/stinging sensation. Haze affects field of vision & limits the visibility. Above all, it adversely affects your peepers- threatens your vision; if you wear contact lenses. Fortunately, everything is manageable; provided, you are willing to stay meticulous of contact lens handling & focused at improving your lifestyle.

1. Prevention

Let us remind our elementary lesson i.e. “Prevention is better than cure”. It is advisable to avoid staying out doors when the weather is windy or hazy. Since the surface of contact lenses is electrostatic; everything that comes into contact with them make its way inside to the cornea. Therefore, always carry a traveling contact lens kit that easily accommodates a small bottle of your contact lens disinfectant. In emergency, instead of rubbing your eyes and making things gross; immediately put off your circle contacts and disinfect them right at the spot. Monthly or daily disposable circle lenses are a better option in such changing climates.

2. Wear Contact Lenses with High Water Grade

Contact lenses with low water ratio may get dry. They increase the risk of corneal abrasions when eyes are rubbed in case of introduction of a foreign body. Though rubbing seems to calm down the slew of eye problems; it actually aggravates the condition. Contact lenses with high water grade keep eyes moist and comfortable.

3. Keep Lubricating your Eyes

When out in haze, carry lubricating drops in your bag. Rewetting drops help immediately flush out the foreign agents. Some of the advanced rewetting drops such as Blink N Clean from Abbott Pharma, disinfect contact lenses whilst they are still in your eyes. Just instill few drops, blink and Ta da!

Also Read: Contact Lens Management in Spring

Haze if composed of water vapors, do not really affect contact lens wear. However, one should be concerned if it is the other way round. Irritants can leave your cornea and contact lenses scratched. Contact lens management in haze is a bit difficult to tackle as sun glasses cannot provide protection in haze. To ensure, you stay comfortable keep a spare pair of colored contacts along with other needed accessories. Being warned is being armed, right?

4 Tips to Reduce Chances of Vision Loss in Contact Lens Wearers

Over 285 million people have vision problems out of which 90% are fortunately curable. With little perseverance; chances of vision loss in contact lens wearers can be significantly reduced. Vision impairment often go un-noticed due to the eye exams being overly under rated. Doctors suggest that adults with 20/20 vision should observe regular checkups- once in a year, if not twice. Contact lenses are an excellent mode of vision correction as compared to the other counter-parts. Continuously using them to alter the vision helps improve the vision related disorders such as dizziness & headaches. Contact lens wearers with little consistency can prevent further vision loss by following the tips given below:

Eat Fresh: Eating fresh, for instance; green leafy vegetables help improve the eye sight. Eating fruits, whole grains and low-fat dairy products keep your eyes healthy.

Quit Smoking: Smoking is disastrous to one’s health. It destroys lungs, causes mouth sores & leave your teeth and gums stained. Excessive smoking is injurious as it may lead to ocular dysfunctions where corneal infiltrates and smoking related dryness deter the coordination of different parts in human eye. Contact lens wearers are once again at greater risks of contagious infections. The transmission of infectious ocular diseases can be prevented by immediate tossing of contact lenses that are suspected to be accumulated with germs.

Schedule an Eye Exam: Eye exams are mandatory. Though online information helps a great deal in prevention of diseases; the diagnosis can only be made by professional eye doctor. Only an eye care professional analyze the symptoms, make a diagnosis & proceed further with the treatment. Sometimes infections go unnoticed until they become cure-less. Timely & routine contact lens follow ups help in early diagnosis for a healthy lifestyle.

Wear Preventive Ocular Wear: Ultra violet rays are as damaging to your eye sight as they are to your skin. You intercept sun rays by slathering sun block; but how to prevent eyes from the damaging sun rays? Wear protective ocular wear such as UV contact lenses & UV sunglasses. Reflection is intense at snow and sea waves; avoid glaring on to such objects.

Always practice hygiene. Handle your contact lenses the prescribed way to lead a healthy & happy life. 

DIY Eye Test: Now Contact Lens Users can take an Eye Exam at Home

Avid users of contact lenses may better realize the importance of a valid prescription & eye exam. Unfortunately, eye exams are often ignored as patients find it an annoying practice to physically visit the eye care’s office. Thus, to make the entire process hassle-free, “Opternative” a new website-aiming at improving one’s eye health has established an innovative online eye exam where your lap top & your smartphone rules.

People who wear contact lenses must stay vigilant about how their eyes perform under different circumstances. Even a minor change in prescription may lead to headaches, pain in temples, heavy eyelids etc. Dr. Jeremy Ciano explained the importance of regular eye exams on World’s sight day. He emphasized that being into the practice of eye check-ups can help improve the sight of even those with 20/20 vision. With Opternative eye test you only need to spend roughly 25 minutes & $30 for your prescription.

The eye exam does not let you wander in vacuum. From stage one to stage last; there are real brains working behind the concept. The test monitors your vision just like a usual eye doctor performs an eye test. You are asked to focus on the different objects, numbers & shapes that slide onto your laptop’s screen whereas your smartphone serves like a remote control that you use to enter your data. A real life optometrist then analyze your prescription & issues you one to help you make your selection for different modes of vision correction.

The test entertains people under 18 to 40 years. Whilst the DIY eye exam is convenient & straightforward; you must visit your eye care provider at least once in a year. As per the stats there are over 40 million people who wear contact lenses but little they do know about the risk of infections they are possibly at. Only a doctor might be able to diagnose & treat eye related discomfort caused by dryness, digital strain or by improper & unhygienic practices of contact lenses. Contact lens follow-ups help ruling out the underlying threats that may run havoc in future. Fortunately, 90% of the eye problems can be treated, prevented or cured. The best bet however remains the “Prevention”. Always keep a valid contact lens prescription in your arsenal; and you will never regret!