More than ever people in the Orlando/Lake Nona area are realizing the benefits of contact lenses. Globally there are over 100 million contact wearers. They can correct most eye conditions including Myopia (near-sightedness), Astigmatism, Hyperopia (far-sightedness) and even Presbyopia (age related reading problems). Proper care contact lenses is essential for health eyes.
Consumer Affairs recently published an in depth analysis of a study done by the Center for Disease Control, “CDC analyzed national databases of outpatient care centers and emergency rooms to develop the first national estimates of how much keratitis occurs in the US. Experts found there were an estimated 930,000 visits to doctor’s offices and outpatient clinics and 58,000 emergency room visits annually due to eye infections. Women were slightly more likely to be affected than men, accounting for 63% of office visits and about 55% of emergency room visits. The condition was spread relatively evenly across age groups. Keratitis occurs when germs invade the cornea, the clear dome that covers the colored part of the eye. The infection is most likely to occur when contact lenses are worn too long or are not cared for correctly. Wearing contact lenses overnight, not cleaning and replacing storage cases frequently and exposing contact lenses to water are some of the key behaviors that increased the risk for keratitis.”
The cornea gets most of its much needed oxygen from the air. When you wear contact lenses, there is a limited supply of oxygen getting to the cornea, but when you sleep with your contact lenses, oxygen is not able to go through the eyelid and the contact lens. If this occurs for a prolonged time it can leave your cornea starving for oxygen. Which can lead to corneal ulcers and eye infections. Not cleaning your contact lenses properly can also lead to the same ulcers and infections.
To prevent infection from contact lenses
Before handling contact lenses ensure your hands are properly cleaned
Take out contact lenses before showering, swimming or sleeping
Each time you remove your contact lenses rub and rinse in disinfection solution
Every 3 months repave your contact lens case
Always have a spare pair of glasses with you incase you need to remove your contact lenses
Always have an eye doctor ensure proper fit
If you experience any burning, itching, swelling, pain or redness, contact Lake Nona Eye Care immediately. Routine eye exams is an important step for healthy eye, especially if you wear contact lenses on a regular basis.