Contact Lens Care Tips to Avoid Irritation and Infection

Contact lenses offer convenience, clear vision, and freedom from glasses - but only when they are worn and cared for properly. Without proper hygiene and regular monitoring, contact lenses can lead to eye irritation, dryness, and even serious infections. At Diamond Bar Optometric, we emphasize that healthy contact lens wear begins with good habits at home and annual contact lens exams in the office.
 

Always Wash and Dry Your Hands First

Before touching your contact lenses, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. Avoid soaps with heavy fragrances or lotions, as residue can transfer to your lenses. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel to prevent debris from sticking to the lenses. This simple step dramatically reduces the risk of transferring bacteria, dirt, or oils into your eyes.
 

Clean and Disinfect Lenses Properly

If you wear reusable contact lenses, proper cleaning is critical.

• Use only the solution recommended by your eye doctor
• Rub and rinse lenses even if using a “no-rub” solution
• Never use tap water, bottled water, or saliva to clean lenses
• Replace your contact lens solution daily - never “top off” old solution

Tap water can contain microorganisms that may cause serious infections, including Acanthamoeba keratitis, which can threaten vision.
 

Replace Your Lenses as Directed

Contact lenses are designed for specific replacement schedules - daily, biweekly, or monthly. Extending wear beyond the recommended timeline increases protein buildup, reduces oxygen flow to the cornea, and raises your risk of infection. Even if lenses feel fine, invisible deposits may be accumulating. Sticking to your prescribed replacement schedule protects your long-term eye health.
 

Never Sleep in Lenses Unless Prescribed

Sleeping in contact lenses significantly increases your risk of corneal infections because your eyes receive less oxygen overnight. Unless your lenses are specifically approved for overnight wear and prescribed by your optometrist, remove them before bed.

If you accidentally fall asleep in your lenses, remove them as soon as possible and monitor for redness, pain, or blurred vision.
 

Keep Your Lens Case Clean

Your lens case can harbor bacteria if not properly maintained.

• Rinse it with contact lens solution - not water
• Leave it open to air dry each day
• Replace it every three months or sooner if damaged

A clean case is just as important as clean lenses.
 

Avoid Water Exposure

Remove contact lenses before swimming, showering, or using a hot tub. Water can introduce harmful microorganisms to your lenses and eyes. If you must swim while wearing contacts, consider daily disposable lenses and wear tight-fitting goggles.
 

Watch for Warning Signs

Contact lens irritation is not normal. Remove your lenses and contact Diamond Bar Optometric if you experience:

• Persistent redness
• Eye pain or discomfort
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision
• Excessive tearing or discharge

Early treatment can prevent minor irritation from developing into a more serious infection.
 

Prioritize Annual Contact Lens Exams

Even if your vision feels stable, annual contact lens exams are essential. A contact lens exam is more than just a vision check - it evaluates how your lenses fit, how your eyes are responding, and whether your prescription or lens type needs updating.

During your exam, we assess:

• Corneal health
• Tear film quality
• Oxygen flow to the eye
• Signs of inflammation or early infection

Your eyes can change over time, and improper lens fit can cause microscopic damage you may not feel immediately. Annual exams ensure your lenses remain safe, comfortable, and effective.
 

Keep Your Eyes Healthy at Diamond Bar Optometric

Proper contact lens care is essential to preventing irritation, dryness, and infection. Simple daily habits go a long way in protecting your eyes. Just as important are annual contact lens exams, which ensure your lenses continue to fit properly and support your overall eye health.

Contact Diamond Bar Optometric to schedule your annual contact lens exam and ensure your lenses are working safely and effectively for you. Visit our office in Diamond Bar, California, or call (909) 861-4999 to book an appointment today.