Why Monitoring Eye Health should be One’s Top Priority when Wearing Contact Lenses?

courtesy: Starfocal

It is a universal bad habit that we tend to ignore eye health when it comes to monitoring over-all body health. Doctors opine that monitoring eye health should be one’s top priority if you wear prescription contact lenses. Annual checkups & regular follow ups can help over rule the chances of contraindications you have been unaware of.

Eyes are windows to the soul. The idiom seems to carry the load of heavy meanings not only in serving to one’s aesthetics but also in clinical terms. Eyes show discomfort and various signals when your body suffers from other medical conditions; you have been oblivious of. For instance; you might get migraines due to the changing prescription of your contact lenses. Therefore; eye health exam should be made on priority basis once in a year if not in every 6 months.

Contact Lenses Need Attention:

People wearing contact lenses should be more vigilant about how their eyes behave when they shift to different temperature zones. Weather changes may also interfere with vision for patients wearing prescription contact lenses. With the onset of spring the suspended pollen particles in air might accumulate on the surface of contact lenses, causing blurred/hazy vision or might even spark allergic reactions. Similarly, beach visits in summer & tours to frozen areas might create discomfort whilst sporting contact lenses. Using mere eye drops help in various issues but serious concerns are better justified by an Optometrist. Only he will be able to judge if you should continue wearing contact lenses when allergens hit or should better give your eyes a rest.

Contact lenses have never been a problem. Eye experts opine that they wish to see more people opting contact lenses as they have been a handy device in vision correction for people from different walks of life, from children to elderly, from house wives to sportsmen with vigorous activities. Only follow instructions that come with your contact lenses & keep contact lens follow ups in your priority list. Guard your eyes against irrevocable vision damages- start acting today. 

Contact Lens Wearers at Risk of Infections due to Unhygienic Practices

A recent warning released by eye experts reminds contact lens users to stay vigilant about proper care of contact lenses. Doctors reveal that there have been an increased number of patients in past months that are affected by infections occurred by improper use of contact lenses.

Infections Contact Lens Wearers are at Risk Of:

Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Acanthamoeba Keratitis is a microorganism carried by water. When users wearing contact lenses carelessly use water whilst wearing lenses; they get affected by the infection. This microorganism is corneal devouring bacteria & in gross cases it may lead to complete visual impairment. Eye experts advise to completely avoid water-related activities before handling contact lenses. Do not wash face, do not visit beach & do not take baths when wearing circle lenses.

Conjunctivitis

It is the inflammation of conjunctiva- the white layer of the eye. Contact lens wearers spread conjunctivitis when they share, swap or exchange contact lenses among fellow wearers. It is diagnosed by teary eyes, pink eyes, itching, irritation & discharge. When contact lenses are contaminated with bacteria, they should be immediately thrown away and or replaced. Avoid wearing circle lenses when suffering from infection to prevent spreading the disease.

Doctors opine that patients should keep an eye over how their eyes are working with contact lenses. In case of any unusual symptoms such as inflammation or excessive discharge from eyes; rush to your eye doctor than creating panic. To stay on the safe side, never top off contact lens solution but always toss it off and refill the chambers after each wear.

Contact lenses need meticulous care as they are prosthetic medical devices. Provided what you get for your eyes are FDA approved lenses there are rarely any chances for you to get affected by contagious ocular diseases. 

Is it Safe to Wear Contact Lenses with a Sty?

Sty is usually a harmless swollen, pus-filled bump over tear duct or lash line that is caused by bacterial contamination. It goes away by itself within a week or two. If it does not completely vanish; it starts showing the signs of improvements in first 48 hours. Since styes are caused by infections you need to be very concerned about preventing the recurrence or outbreak if you wear contact lenses. Be very meticulous and take all measures to maintain good hygiene for eye health.

Precautionary Measures: Styes & Contact Lenses

Dirty Contact Lenses

If you wear contact lenses, always ensure to regularly disinfect them. Dirty contact lenses can also be the reason of styes’ growth. Remember; the root cause is bacteria & chances are that that bacterium is clinging to the surface of your circle lenses that could undoubtedly facilitate the transmission of bacteria to your eyes.

Dirty Hands

Always wash your hands properly before touching your contact lenses. When you have styes, you unconsciously touch your eyes. The finger pads pick up the bacteria from the styes and transmit it to circle lenses when you touch them. Therefore, always wash your hands, dry them with a lint free towel & then handle your contact lenses

Toss off Contact Lenses & Makeup

source

It is advised to avoid circle lenses during styes over eye lids. Styes drain the puss that can contaminate the contact lenses. Toss of the circle lenses & replace them with the new. Also, avoid using the same eye makeup accessories you used during the time of infection once it has healed completely.

According to Dr. Andrew Dahl, having an experience of 49 years in Ophthalmology; it is safe to start wearing circle lenses again after 2-3 days of styes’ healing. Do not share your towels and contact lenses to stop the recurrence & the wide- spread of the infection.

Are Contact Lenses a Right Choice for your Kid?

It has been observed that kids are taunted & mocked at school for wearing glasses. This does not only hurt their self-esteem but also push the confidence down. Humiliation becomes a common practice & kids are often labeled as “four-eyed, Poindexter, Nerd” etc. Though ditching glasses for contact lenses is better in many perspectives; certain important points should be taken into consideration before introducing your kid to circle contact lenses.

Problems that Kids Face whilst Wearing Glasses/Specs

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1. It is difficult for a kid to take care of glasses. They keep breaking frames, losing them or simply keep having an annoying uncomfortable feel. Specs can be dangerous if the kid while playing falls off & break the lenses. The particles of glasses might injure & get into eyes accidentally.
2. Glasses sit on the bridge of the nose whereas contact lenses float directly over the surface. This is why circle lenses offer better vision correction than the specs. Furthermore, circle lenses allow crisp peripheral vision which definitely is not possible with glasses.
3. Glasses get hazy and cloudy as the weather shifts from dry to cold, foggy or rainy. This makes young kids vulnerable to accidents and unfortunate happenings especially whilst crossing the roads & when travelling. Circle lenses on the other hand do not get affected by the meteorological changes only unless the weather becomes gross suddenly.

At What Age should a Kid be introduced to Circle Lenses?

There is a vague opinion on this among eye doctors. Some think that tweens (children under 10-12) can be fearlessly introduced to circle lenses whereas some opine that it is safe for kids to wear circle lenses once they enter the teen age.

Other than the age there are other factors parents must consider before taking circle lenses plunge for their child. Mental maturity, hygiene practices & child’s own motivation & urge for circle lenses matter the most.

Replacing glasses with circle lenses help boost the confidence of your child. It does not only feed the urge of looking beautiful but also add loads of convenience to the life of your kid. He would love the change as he does not need to fidget with his nerdy glasses every time he bends down or jump for a ball throw!

Are There Any Potential Risks in Wearing Circle Lenses?

Yes & no- The answer is simple. Circle lenses should not pose any threats provided they are approved by FDA. FDA approved circle lenses are engineered under strict health standards in state of the art labs that ensure risk free crisp vision.

Tinted circle contact lenses are used for both vision problems and for cosmetics. It is illegal in United States to purchase circle lenses without a valid prescription. In order for safe wear & fitting, it is mandatory to follow the lens care instructions. In certain cases, circle lenses might be uncomfortable such as in dry eyes syndrome. Circle lenses are also reported to induce strain on eyes in people spending long hours in working on computers. However, by trial & error with different brands of circle lenses; one might find a perfect match to his/her eyes.

Circle lenses that are made from silicone hydro gel material are noted to keep eyes comfortable as they retain moisture level in eyes whilst allowing maximum oxygen transmission.

Circle Lenses Health Risks

1. Since everything comes with pros and cons, circle lenses that are FDA approved do have risks factors involved which cannot be out ruled.
2. Circle lenses should never be brought into contact with water or saliva. Always use multi-purpose disinfectant.
3. Circle lenses should be handled carefully as FDA classifies them as medical devices.
4. Circle lenses should not be worn when sleeping, should not be worn under strong radiations & should be avoided at salons & beaches.
5. Circle lenses should never be swapped or exchanged with friends. Always keep them confined to yourself.
6. Do not fall for cheap over the counter contact lenses that are being sold at internet @US $10. Circle lenses usually cost $22 & up-anything lower than this should ring the bell for you. Always check the brand certifications before choosing a mate for your eyes.

Millions of people around the world wear circle lenses & fortunately only a few cases of circle lens related ocular damage are reported each year. If you are mature enough to take care of your contacts & eyes, it is safe to assume that branded FDA approved circle lenses won’t be any dangerous.

Can anyone Wear Contact Lenses?

For details on the lenses used in the photo please scroll down

The trend of wearing contact lenses among teenagers is becoming increasingly popular. The market is ever-evolving & affluent in latest technology that has helped penetrating the trend among masses. Anyone can wear contact lenses to treat the visual impairments as now with advancement in lens materials & solutions is ensuring the most comfortable wear ever.

Contact lenses are available in both prescription and plano. Furthermore, various options in contact lenses from diameter enlargement to color contrast & water content allow people with vision problems to make a wise selection based on their requirements.

1. People with sensitive eyes can rely upon circle lenses with water content 55%
2. People with Astigmatism can refer to Toric circle lenses
3. People with vision problems should get prescription circle lenses
4. People with severe vision weakness can try Prescription lenses in above -7.00
5. People with dry eye syndrome should wear Geolica Eyevelyn contact lenses

Contact lenses when purchased from authentic sellers should not budge you. For the sake of your own safety; always have a fresh prescription at hand before seeking the right pair of circle lenses. Make sure what you purchase is FDA approved and safe to wear. Better safe than sorry.

Lenses used in the photo:

1. Barbie Puffy 3 Tones Violet
2. I.Fairy Hanabi Blue
3. I.Fairy Dolly+ Brown
4. I.Fairy Kirei Green
5. I.Fairy Dolly+ Red
6. I.Fairy Jewel Pink
7. I.Fairy Super Crystal Green
8. Phantasee Violet Sclera Lens Colossus

Would You Wear Second Hand Contact Lenses?

If the sound of wearing second hand underwear disgusts you how can you imagine trying a pair of second hand contact lenses? With the advent of Chinese New Year; several cases of sale on counterfeit and used circle lenses have been observed. Contact lenses themselves are not a threat provided they are FDA approved. Experts opine that bad hygiene practices are more involved in CLIDs than contact lenses themselves.

It is a very common practice by anime enthusiasts to put up their contact lenses for sale at social media after using them once or twice. They expressed that purchasing second hand contact lenses save them money as imitating their characters’ eyes enlivens the entire performance. Some social media icons don’t hesitate to swap their used contact lenses. This situation may lead to alarming results since circle lenses carry potential risks. The rate of transmission is doubled when they are shared.

Social media gurus should help create awareness rather than promoting used contact lenses. Lack of knowledge & explosion of unauthorized & illegal online vendors have created more chaos.  Vision impairment associated solely with cheap & fake versions of circle contact lenses have been very disturbing for people under 22 years. Before you purchase your contact lenses, make sure you have a valid prescription at hand. Buying online is not always a threat if you take into account the credibility of the source.

"Consumers who get an eye infection or go blind will have to live with the consequences for the rest of their lives.So, it is important they understand that cosmetic contact lenses, like contact lenses used to correct vision, can pose serious risks to eye health if they are not used properly", says Nor Azizah Ismail; Secretary MOC.

Wearing second hand or used contact lenses should in all cases be avoided, no matter how urgent the need is. Better be safe than sorry. Only ensure what you insert in your eyes is FDA approved & meeting quality & health standards.

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Related: 

Horrendous Consequences of Sharing Contact Lenses

Stop Contaminating your Contact Lens Cases

All your efforts of keeping your circle lenses free from bacteria accumulation have been just a waste provided your contact lens cases are contaminated/ not replaced on timely basis. Cases of contact lenses need similar disinfection that your contact lenses go through. Ignorantly, most of the contact lens wearers are involved in bad hygienic practices that increase the risks of contamination in contact lens cases as revealed by a study published in February issue of Optometry and Vision Science, official journal of the American Academy of Optometry

3 Hygiene Practices Linked with Contact Lens Case Contamination

The study assessed habits of 119 contact lens wearers against their provided used cases of contact lenses. Three hygienic habits were claimed to have been closely knitted with contamination in contact lens cases.

1. Abstaining from washing hands with soap & water

Patients who avoid washing hands before handling contact lenses with soap & water were at higher risk of contaminating the cases of contact lenses. The best way to reduce the risk is to every time wash your hands properly with soap, as washing only with tap water do not make a difference.

2. Abstaining from air-drying contact lens cases

Chances of bacteria accumulation are higher when the contact lens cases are not allowed to air dry before storing contact lenses. Cases must always be put to air-drying with lids off and faces down. Water carries microorganisms that may attract the floating bacteria in air. Another study previously suggested that “Rub, Rinse, Tissue-wipe & Air dry” is the best pragmatic approach to keep cases free from harmful bacteria accumulation.

3. Using mismatched contact lens cases & disinfectants

Contamination was increased when patients used cases & disinfecting solutions from different manufacturers. Cases that come with your contact lenses are only to save you from agony. Therefore, get your FDA approved contact lens cases asap.

There are other risks factors involved such as continuing to use your contact lens cases for more than 3 months or failing to replace your contact lenses past the expiry.

"Lens cases play an essential role in disinfection of contact lenses," comments Anthony Adams, OD, PhD, Editor-in-Chief of Optometry and Vision Science. "However, without proper maintenance, the lens case itself may become contaminated with micro-organisms during handling".

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Reference:

Wolters Kluwer Health

Cute & inexpensive contact lens cases

Related: Avoid Contaminating your Contact Lenses: 3 Things to Know

Contact Lenses with Proper Compliance are proved to be a Safer Option for Vision Correction- Consensus in Singapore Reveals

Contact lenses- A safer mode of vision correction 

Singapore Contact Lens Society; comprised of professional ophthalmologists, is cognizant of the importance of constant monitoring in contact lens wearers. The society lays great emphasis on the regular contact lens follow-up for people using contact lenses for vision correction.

Ophthalmologists opine that contact lenses when followed by proper care regimen minimize the risk of infections. The society quoted a U.S study that reveals that the rate of infection induced by contact lenses is 13.9 in every 10,000 children whereas in adults it has astonishingly been reduced to zero percent. The study also reveals that there has not even been a single registered case of "contact lens related infection"; leading to permanent damage or vision loss.

The consensus further elaborates that contact lenses are safe mode of vision correction when followed by proper compliance. A clean, sterilized and FDA approved contact lens that is properly fitted ensures minimum to no risks. With proper hygiene, infections’ risk can be greatly reduced. Additionally, the follow-up sessions keep a sharp track on rising ocular abnormalities if any.

The society summarized the safe contact lens wear as follows:

1. Eyes should look good- free from redness
2. Eyes should feel good- free from itching
3. Eyes should see good- free from blurred or hazy vision

If you are an active wearer of contact lenses, keep monitoring how your eyes perform with and without them. In case, you notice an unusual secretion, itching or painful sensation; rush to your eye care professional. Follow contact lens care regimen religiously & prevent your eyes from seasonal or occasional infections that are more likely to hit people wearing contact lenses.

Related:

 Managing seasonal allergies with contact lenses

Wearing Circle Lenses at New Year’s Celebrations? Think Twice

Circle Lens related ocular infections are rare; in fact very rare, provided you get your supply from authentic sellers. Often times, consumers risk their vision by their care less approach towards contact lenses.Circle lenses & its variants are medical devices and should be handled carefully.  Neglecting to disinfect them thoroughly or adopting a careless attitude at parties can lead to potential visual impairment.

Ophthalmologists have shared their concerns about the surging number of patients rushing towards hospitals when the New Year has just begun. According to them it is consumers’ poor understanding and careless attitude towards contact lenses that should be held responsible for the corneal abscesses & etc. People are less careful during parties especially during late night celebrations as after drinking alcohol you are prone to get into bed & quilts. Dancing, partying with friends & alcohol make you feel tired & ignorant of the fact that you are still wearing your contact lenses. Tumbling into bed without taking your contact lenses out at festive is natural as your mind dozes off quickly when it is under effects of alcohol. Therefore, be very careful when wearing circle lenses at parties that offer you beers or alcoholic drinks.

Drinking excessively is itself very dangerous as it makes few go violent. A woman got her eye ball punctured as her best friend had attacked her violently with her stiletto heel after drinking ten bottles of vodkas & cokes. Thus, ensure that you take out circle lenses from your eyes before you indulge yourself into ‘party-business’.

"Most corneal infections are related to contact lens usage, especially when proper hygiene, cleaning and removal isn't followed”, says Dr David Allamby, a leading laser eye surgeon who runs Focus clinic in London. 

Make fresh contact lens resolutions for 2015 to safe guard your eyes this year!

New Year Contact Lens Resolutions: Some Tips for Contact Lens Wearers for 2015

Attention Contact Lens Wearers:

1. Poor hygienic habits can leave you blind
2. Exposure of contact lenses with water causes rare eye infections that are responsible for potential damages
3. Be very careful when wearing contact lenses at “drinking parties”; especially at holidays.

Contact lenses are definitely fun; they give you huge dolly eyes. Lady Gaga’s amplified eyes would not have been possible without big eye circle lenses. Even though big eye contact lenses are considered controversial; medics are of the opinion that wearing FDA approved authentic circle lenses after getting a valid prescription is free from health hazards and risks.

Regular wearers of circle lenses must make resolutions to improve optical health. Strict vigilance with contact lenses is crucial in order to keep your eyes safe from damage & injuries. You should renew following contact lenses’ resolutions in 2015 for sparkling healthy eyes.

1. Always wash your hands before handling circle lenses.
2. Always disinfect contact lenses after each wear. Don’t forget to through old contact lens solution before re-immersing them in the vials.
3. Never top off contact lens solution or reuse it.
4. Wash your contact lens cases once a week & dry it cap off and top down. Replace it every 3 months
5. Do not wear circle lenses after they have crossed the expiry date.
6. Always keep your circle lenses away from water. Do not handle/store them at humid places. Exposure of water with contact lenses poses horrendous threats.

Upon noticing any kind of discomfort or pain in eyes, immediately remove circle lenses. Though contact lenses are not always the reason behind painful eyes, removing them out & inspecting them for any superficial scratches might rule out such chances.

 Keep in mind:

1. Having your eyes tested once a year by your ophthalmologist should be your top priority in 2015.
2. Always purchase your circle lenses from authentic re-sellers who ensure availability of 100% genuine & FDA approved contact lenses with honest refunds. 

Effects of Weight Loss on Contact Lens Fit

L-R Finn Wittrock, Domhnall Gleeson and Jack O'Connell in a scene from "Unbroken. (Universal Pictures.) 

Contact lenses with 38% water content and 8.6mm base curve fit most of the people unless you are diagnosed with rare diseases or eye shapes. However, one must not forget that contact lenses are not one size fit all. Certain medications & life style do leave impact on contact lens tolerance & fitting-even weight loss.

Reducing too much of your body mass in a short period of time might make your body feel starved & de-hydrated. The fresh example is actor Domhnall Gleeson; who recently has lost too much weight for Anjelina Jolie’s Movie “Unbroken” that his contact lenses no longer fit him.

The story line of the film rotates around World War II; where his plane was gunned down over the Pacific Ocean & he was left all alone at the shore until he was rescued by Japanese sailors who kept him in prison for two years with little food for his survival.

Gleeson loses so much weight that his contact lenses no longer fit

To put a life in his character; actor took the job seriously & lost so much of his weight that he dropped contact lens size. O’Connel- the co-star said in a press conference; "Domhnall lost so much weight, even his eyeballs changed shape." 

"It's true," laughed director Angelina Jolie, noting the actors wore special lenses to make their eyes look bloodshot. "They fit when he was starting to lose weight and then by the time we got to the end of the raft section, they wouldn't go into his eyes. I think it was the dehydration." 

Strange fact; but yes looks like your cornea changes shape; as you lose weight. Even your eyes go skinny. Until eye professionals come forward to address this issue; we have no other option than assuming that reducing excessive weight specially in a short span may lay adverse effect on contact lenses’fit.

Get more facts about Contact Lens Fitting here

Cosmetics & Contact Lenses: A Kinky Yet Formidable Relationship

Although contact lenses when inserted before applying makeup can reduce the contamination risks, care should be taken whilst using cosmetics along with circle lenses. People having sensitive eyes are more prone to develop eye infections due to contamination of makeup buildup over the surface of contact lenses which later transfer itself to the cornea, causing corneal abrasion.

Though cosmetics contain preservatives to stop the growth of bacteria, they do contain irritants which can be harmful for the eyes. It has been reported that some women with sensitive eyes develop frequent conjunctivitis due to mishandling their cosmetics or because of a contaminated applicator.

Also Read : Makeup & Circle Lenses 

Circle lenses & makeup application go hand in hand. Makeup cannot be avoided when wearing circle lenses as circle lenses without makeup, may look too fake to look attractive. To keep your eyes protected always use hypoallergenic cosmetics or those with little to no fragrances as some people’s eyes show adverse effects against fragrances.

8 Safety Tips with Makeup & Circle Lenses

1. Do not use cosmetics beyond their expiry date
2. Do not use old mascara applicator with the new product. It might have been contaminated
3. Apply eye liner away from the lash line
4. Keep your eye pencils sharp and use soft pencils so that the wood does not scratch
5. Avoid using lash-fiber mascaras when wearing circle lenses
6. Never apply eye makeup or insert/takeoff your circle lenses when in a moving vehicle. You can accidentally poke your eyes.
7. Avoid using eye shadows with metallic-sheen, glitters or mineral cosmetics. They can flake off, or get into eyes that contaminate circle lenses & may induce irritation- eye infections.
8. Do not wear eye makeup during contact lens fitting exam.

Circle lenses are meant to boost up your self-confidence whereas makeup application is to enhance your personality. Care should be taken in order to stay prevented from mishaps; you only have one set of eyes. 

4 Dry Eye Relief Tips by Dr. Stewart for Contact Lens Wearers

Dry eye syndrome affects over 25 million Americans & more than 100 million people worldwide. With the onset of winters; the syndrome begins to strengthen its roots thus instigate dryness, eye sores and grittiness, itching & burning sensation among contact lens wearers. Dr. Stewart Shofner-renowned surgeon of “Shofner Vision Centre” suggests 5 dry eye relief tips to release the discomfort that is subject to disturb twice more to wearers of contact lenses.

Dr. Kevin Johnson of Shofner Vision Center adds, "Contact lens wearers in particular are subject to dry eye symptoms because the dry air reduces the moisture in the contact lenses.”

During winter the tear film that keeps eyes moist is disturbed due to cold weather & dry air. Wearing contact lenses further worsen the symptoms.

"Dry eye syndrome is much worse in the winter as people tend to stay indoors where warm dry air is prevalent," says Dr. Shofner

How to Relieve Dry Eye Symptoms in winter among Wearers of Contact Lenses?

As a wearer of contact lenses and a patient of dry eyes syndrome, be preventive about following:

1. Stay away from direct air. Air conditioners, hair dryers, car heaters & vents should not be directed towards eyes. Do not ride a bicycle or motor bike without protective eye goggles whilst wearing contact lenses.
2. In winter when there is an advanced use of gas/electric heaters and when the fire places are always active; use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air. If dryness is not dealt like a pro; especially if you wear contact lenses you are more prone to develop eye sores, scratches & corneal abrasions
3. Use lubricants along with prescription eye drops such as Systane and Restasis. They work with one’s own tears to re-hydrate, soothe & reduce the inflammation. They also help your eyes produce more tears to keep eyes lubricated. This increases tolerance for contact lenses & help reduce discomfort associated with contact lenses.
4. Stay away from air pollution, BBQ smoke & cigarette smokers. Those who smoke should reduce smoking or if possible should totally stop it for a while. Smoking is dangerous in 3 ways for cigarette smokers who wear contact lenses.

Dr. Shofner says, "Patients can be treated for dry eye syndrome with quick and convenient procedure such as LipiFlow® or cauterization. Using the correct eye drops can also be helpful, and there is no reason for anyone to suffer from dry eyes”

Eating healthy-introducing fruits & green vegetables & increasing liquid diet also helps combat against dry eyes syndrome for people wearing contact lenses. 

Courtesy of :

PRwebShofnerVisionCentre

3 Contact Lenses’ Mistakes you Don’t Know you are doing

Circle lenses need careful handling to stay prevented from eye sores & infections. One wrong move may lead to gross out comes. Even though we claim to be pro circle lens users; we often neglect minor things and commit unhygienic mistakes without even knowing and having any realization on this part. If you are also making following mistakes; improve your hygiene standards and stay cautions whilst handling circle lenses.

Failing to Disinfect Circle Lenses after Each Wear

Circle lenses are subjected to go through disinfection after each wear. Immersing them in the disinfecting solution does not do the job accurately. You have to rub your contact lenses at your cleaned & disinfected finger pads to effectively remove protein & lipid debris from over the surface of circle lenses.

Attempting “Topping Off” Contact Lens Solution

With every wear the contact lens solution should be wasted and the chambers should be filled with the new and fresh supply of disinfecting solution. Solution that has once been left open in the chambers of the contact lens case loses its efficacy as the disinfectant evaporates soon after it is left open in the environment.

Also Read: What Risks does It Pose to Top Off Contact Lens Solution?

Letting Circle Lenses Stay Soaked in a Week Old Solution

Yes there must be free pair of circle lenses in your drawer that you do not wear on regular basis. Keeping them soaked in the days old stagnant solution is never free from risks. Furthermore; contact lens solution sometimes evaporates over-night due to involvement of various climatic factors. Therefore; you should keep checking on your contact lens solution to keep them from drying.

Also Read: How to Prevent Contact Lens Solution from Drying?

Most of the time users of circle lenses inadvertently commit circle lens sins that should be avoided at all cost. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Related:

6 Deadly Sins Users of Circle Lenses Make

3 Ways you are Wearing Contact Lenses Wrong: First Contact Lens Week, 2014 (Health Reminder 2)

Play your role in prevention against conjunctivitis, keratitis & neovascularisation through wise use of contact lenses. 

“Contact lenses offer many benefits, but they are not risk-free”; said Dr. Cope, a CDC medical epidemiologist at a conference. Contact lenses thus may be the prime reason of several outrageous ocular injuries & chronic vision threatening infections if not used appropriately. Practicing healthy habits & introducing vision-friendly measures with contact lenses can save you from the gross aftermath of using these medical devices the wrong way.

Prevention is better than Cure

• How to protect yourself from Keratitis?

Keratitis is an infection of the cornea- front layer of iris. It can cause blurred & hazy vision leading to permanent vision loss and acute pain along with other deathly symptoms. If you wear contact lenses, you need to stay more vigilant as you are prone to developing ocular infections.

Case Study: How Common are Acanthamoeba Related Ocular Infections?

What You Need to Do?

Stay very cautious about your contact lenses. Never allow water to come into contact with your contact lenses. Water contains a virus “acanthamoeba Keratitis” and letting your contact lenses make a contact with water is like welcoming the corneal-devouring parasite to your most precious & only set of eyes. Always air-dry your contact lens cases.

• How to protect yourself from Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the conjunctiva- the white layer of the eye. It is also known as pink- eye disease. It can cause teary eyes, inflammation, itching, irritation, and discharge along with other symptoms.

Case Study: Sharing Contact Lenses Promoted Guam Conjunctivitis Outbreak

What You Need to Do?

As a contact lens wearer; you are at a risk of developing conjunctivitis. Therefore, make special preventive measures for the sake of your eyes. Do not share your contact lenses with anyone. Also avoid falling for substandard and cheap contact lenses.

• How to Protect yourself from Neovascularisation

Neovascularisation occurs when your eyes become oxygen-starved. Since eyes draw its oxygen from the open environment than from the body, they grow blood vessels to fulfill the requirement when there is a blockade. The blood vessels may rupture when you discontinue wearing contact lenses, but in severe cases with excessive growth of blood-vessels you are left with horrendous permanent eye scarring & eye sore.

Case Study: How Over-Wearing Contact Lenses Affected London Based Fashion Designer

What You Need to Do?

To prevent your eyes from neovascularisation always take note of following:

Never over-wear contact lenses. This includes wearing contact lenses exceeding the daily limit of 6 hours and wearing contact lenses past their expiry.

Also;

1. Do not sleep in your contact lenses
2. Go here to find out if you are also over-wearing contact lenses.

“There is no question that many people love to use contact lenses instead of spectacles. Using contact lenses, however, does carry the risk of infection and, in extreme cases, blindness,” added by CDC team. Always wear FDA approved circle lenses & ensure a pragmatic approach to contact lens disinfection to lead a safe life.

UNIQSO Observes First Annual Contact Lens Health Week with CDC (Health Reminder 1)

Center of Disease Control & Prevention marks first annual “Contact Lens Health Week” in close collaboration with partners from 17^th Nov to 21^st Nov. The purpose of campaign is to promote healthy living & reduce the risk of infections through improper use of contact lenses. Uniqso; being the legit circle lens supplier considers it a prime duty to promote the healthy life style among masses by eliminating the chances of CLID (Contact Lens Induced Diseases)

Campaign echoes; “You have only one pair of eyes, take care of them”. Over 30 million of people wear contact lenses regularly in United States & 125 million people around the globe. According to a research nearly 93% of contact lens wearers are more inclined towards taking short cuts which is an alarming fact. The dirty practices are increasing the burden of Keratitis- a corneal devouring infection that increases the risk of permanent vision loss.

"Keratitis associated with poor contact lens hygiene is preventable. Prevention efforts should include surveillance, improved estimates of the burden of disease, and vigorous health promotion activities focused on contact lens users and eye care professionals (ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians). Increased surveillance capacity is needed for microbial keratitis, in particular data from optometrist visits," bunch of doctors at CDC conclude.

If you are a contact lens wearer; ensure the implementation following practices in your routine religiously:

1.  Keep your circle lenses safe to wear
2. Take care of your eyes if you wear circle lenses in a routine

Contact Lens Case Care:

1. How To Take Care of Contact Lens Cases?

• Sterilize contact lens cases
• Wiping contact lens cases with tissue reduces contamination risks

2. Prevention is Better than Cure: Keeping Contact Lenses Away from Water

• Don't wash face with contact lenses in eyes
• Avoid Swims & baths when wearing contact lenses
• Protect your eyes when wearing contact lenses at beach
• Don't store circle lenses at humid places such as in or near bathrooms

3. Disinfect your Circle Lenses Wisely: Make Sure when You are Disinfecting your Circle Lenses, You are Actually Disinfecting them

1. Don't top off contact lens solution
2. Topping off contact lens solution reduces the efficacy of disinfectant

Contact lenses are helping millions of people around the globe. Let us play our role by being careful about what goes into our eyes and how. As a sensible consumer of contact lenses and a loyal citizen of your country you must play an active role in reducing the risk of ocular injuries instigated by contact lenses. Even though Acanthamoeba Keratitis related injuries are rare; it is always better to stay cautious. Click the image below to find out if you need immediate help of your optometrist on this regard.

Are Circle Lenses Really the Reason Behind Surging Ocular Infections?

Relation b/w circle lenses & eye infections

In United States alone, nearly 1 million eye infections are reported every year with most of them being directly or closely linked with the improper usage of circle contact lenses. This Thursday, Center for Disease Control & Prevention unveiled new statistics that hold the immature approach of customers towards circle lenses responsible for potential infections.

FDA approved circle lenses ensure risk-free usage thus restricts CLID (circle lenses induced diseases). However; improper usage, criminal negligence & failing to handle them properly may lead to superficial damages. In some cases, patient may even lose the eye sight for ever depending upon the severity of the infection.

Also Read: Are contact lenses really worth the risk?

Stick to Prescription & Ensure Follow-ups

• It is necessary to understand that circle lenses are medical devices and they should be handled likewise. You need to stick to the prescription with regular follow ups. Even if you do not wear circle lenses for correcting refractive index error; you must make it sure to meet your eye doctor at least once a year to overrule any chances of ocular injuries. Sometimes, frequent wear or over-wearing circle lenses exert pressure and eye strain about which the patient stays oblivious of.

Also Read: How important are contact lens Follow-ups?

• Internet is flooded with horrendous contact lens stories but let them not scare you. If you are adult enough to take responsibility of other affairs in your life than you are probably mature enough to be a wise consumer of circle lenses. It is easier to take short cuts when you wear circle lenses; but once you involve yourself in healthy contact lens habits you will discover that not only they are saving your time & energy but are also laying strong foundations for a an older yet healthier you.

Also Read: Minor life style improvements ensure safer contact lens wear

Circle lenses should not be usually a problem. If you detect any discomfort even upon wearing FDA approved circle lenses then it should be enough to ring the bells for you. Immediately put them off and examine them for any manufacturing flaws. If they appear fine & discomfort persists, you should hurry to set an appointment with your doctor to overrule the chances of any ocular injury that is beginning to unveil itself by showing such minor symptoms of inflammation, scarring, itching & teary eyes. 

Dry Eyes, Contact Lenses & Winter

Effective contact lens management is key to comfortable wearing sessions

With the onset of winters, contact lens tolerance has been badly affected in many regions of the world. Winters instigate dryness & contact lenses tend to aggravate it. Nonetheless, contact lens tolerance can be improved by the effective management of the "changing climate".

How to Tackle Dryness to Continue Wearing Contact Lenses in winter?

Dryness is a syndrome where eyes fail to meet adequate tear production. Due to the cold weather the tears are evaporated too quickly to keep eyes moisten. Upon wearing contact lenses the condition is aggravated even more since they are the barrier towards oxygen absorption. Contact lenses themselves are considered to be a dryness inducing agent. Every year a wide number of people are affected negatively by CLID (contact lens induced dryness) alone. Wearing contact lenses when the climate is harsh enough causes irritation & inflammation which needs effective management if you want to continue wearing your contact lenses.

Also Read:  Why do contact lenses turn my eyes dry?

 In winter; when it is snow outside you would not definitely want to go back to your conventional set of glasses just to end up with them being foggy. Prescription contact lenses have been the choice of millions to ensure clear, crisp & impeccable vision. It is an established fact; that with slight variations in lifestyle, one can improve contact lens tolerance for better. If you have ever felt discomfort due to wearing contact lenses because of reduced tear production then try following:

1. Drink plenty of water
2. Eat fresh fruits & vegetables
3. Avoid prolong working at computer
4. Do not over-wear contact lenses ( not more than 6 hours daily)
5. Use lubricating drops
6. Wear contact lenses with low water content (below 40%)

Re-wetting drops may make huge world of a difference. They add immediate comfort and help you with blinking. However, total dependency on lubricating drops may ruin your life. They should only be resorted to when nothing else seem to relieve the symptoms. Focus on making lifestyle changes on a long term course to see the difference or get your own pair of contact lenses for dry eyes for an immediate rescue. 

Top 3 Ways to Keep your Circle Lenses Safe for your Eyes

 

Keep your circle lenses safe for your eyes

FDA approved circle lenses have no side effects; they are tested before being pushed into the markets for mass consumption. Having said this, wearing circle lenses is safe. Above all circle lenses are beneficial if you are aiming to correct your refractive index error. This however does not outlaw the status of circle lenses from prosthetic device to fashion accessory. To keep them serving your vision safely, you must stay meticulous about the diligent disinfection of your circle lenses. Each pair you own must be disinfected regularly whether or not you wear them on daily basis.

Disinfect, Disinfect & Disinfect

Most of the wearers of circle lenses tend to ignore how important is disinfection. Circle lenses accumulate protein, dirt, lint and other debris from environment to their surface that might cause superficial damages. It is important to disinfect circle lenses after each wear. Also occasionally, once in a week circle lenses must be disinfected thoroughly by gentle rubbing & scrubbing through finger pads.

Along with the disinfection of circle lenses, the cases also call for regular disinfection. The bio-film that forms on lens cases is hazardous for eyes and needs to be decontaminated.

Stick to Replacement Schedule

Circle lenses come with an expiry date. Using them past their expiry put your eyes at risk. Do remember; even FDA approved circle lenses do not guarantee risk-free wear once they have been expired. Therefore; stick to your replacement schedule & keep a sharp track on the expiry date.

Also Read: How Often to Replace Contact Lenses?

Circle lens cases also expire even though they don’t come with a written expiry date. Cases that accommodate circle lenses should be replaced every three months. Should you forget replacing cases, sterilize them to minimize the chances of infections.

Avoid “Topping Off Solution”

Refrain from topping off contact lens solution. Disinfecting solution loses its efficacy when it is partially evaporated. Once the case is left opened the preservative that works to kill bacteria evaporates making the solution already in your case worthless. Therefore avoid topping off contact lens solution to keep your circle lenses perfectly fit for your eyes. Always soak your lenses in fresh supply of disinfectant. This reduces the outbreak of contagious ocular diseases.   

Often time it is the careless behavior of consumers that is responsible for gross after effects of wearing circle lenses. You can wear circle lenses every day without fears of threatening your vision. Simply stick to these vision friendly tips & enjoy a beautiful personality.