Conjunctivitis Alert: Disinfect Contact Lenses Properly

Pink eye or conjunctivitis spreads viral-y and bacterial-y both. It is highly contagious and contact lenses can act as a possible transmitter of the disease. If you wear contact lenses, pay attention to keep them disinfected. Also disinfect your contact lens accessories including plunger, forceps & contact lens case.

For contact lens wearers, conjunctivitis may be your eyes’ way to protest against the extender wear of contact lenses. Colored lenses should not be worn more than 6-8 hours daily. You are probably over-wearing them if you find mild inflammation, discharge or crust at sleeping that keeps eyes from opening in the morning. Pink eye disease that is spread by over-wearing contact lenses must go by itself in a day or two as you rest your eyes.

Conjunctivitis is highly contagious. Therefore be very cautious when dealing with an affected eye. Don’t touch the same cloth or finger you use to wipe the infected eye to the unaffected eye.

Tips for Contact Lens Wearers

• Sometimes conjunctivitis can be caused by improper contact lens solutions. Over-dated solution, contact lenses or failing to properly rinse & disinfect the lenses spread the disease from one person to another.
• Throw your contact lenses that might have accumulated the bacteria during infection. Replace them immediately
• Use only pharma-formulated contact lens drops and solution.
• Do not share contact lenses with friends or swap for something else.

Be very careful about disinfecting them thoroughly after each wear. Giving your eyes rest from lenses is recommended for quick recovery. Furthermore, switching to monthly disposable contact lenses also help during the seasonal out-break.