Contact lenses are a convenient and popular alternative to spectacles, offering clear vision and freedom in daily activities. However, improper use and poor hygiene can lead to serious eye infections, irritation, and even permanent vision loss. Following the correct contact lens care routine is essential to keep your eyes healthy.
If you are using contact lenses and live in Chinchwad, Wakad, Thergaon, Ravet, Punawale, or nearby areas of Pimpri-Chinchwad, this guide by Dr. Rachana Tiwari Patil, Consultant Ophthalmologist & Phaco-Refractive Surgeon at Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, Pune, will help you understand the Do’s and Don’ts of contact lens care in a simple and practical way.
Why Proper Contact Lens Care Is Important
Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eyes. Any contamination, improper cleaning, or overuse can allow bacteria, fungi, or parasites to enter the eye. This may lead to conditions such as:
- Redness and irritation
- Dry eyes
- Allergic reactions
- Corneal ulcers
- Severe eye infections
- Blurred vision or vision loss
According to eye specialists, most contact lens–related complications are preventable with proper care and timely consultation.
Common Mistakes Contact Lens Users Make
Many patients visiting Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, often believe that minor discomfort is normal with lenses. This misconception delays treatment and worsens eye problems. Common mistakes include:
- Wearing lenses for long hours
- Sleeping with lenses on
- Cleaning lenses with tap water
- Using expired lens solutions
- Ignoring redness or pain
Let’s understand the correct Do’s and Don’ts to protect your vision.
Contact Lens Care – DO’s
1. Wash Your Hands Before Handling Lenses
Always wash your hands with soap and dry them properly before touching your contact lenses. This prevents bacteria and dirt from entering your eyes.
2. Clean Lenses Daily With Recommended Solution
Use only the lens solution prescribed by your eye doctor. Rub and rinse lenses gently, even if the solution claims to be “no-rub.”
3. Use Fresh Lens Solution Every Time
Never reuse old solution. Discard used solution and refill the case with fresh solution each time you store your lenses.
4. Follow the Wearing Schedule
Different lenses have different usage durations—daily, monthly, or extended wear. Always follow the schedule advised by Dr. Rachana Tiwari Patil, your eye specialist in Chinchwad.
5. Remove Lenses Before Sleeping
Unless specifically prescribed, avoid sleeping with contact lenses. Overnight wear reduces oxygen supply to the eyes and increases infection risk.
6. Replace Your Lens Case Regularly
Lens cases can also harbor germs. Replace them periodically and keep them clean and dry.
7. Go for Regular Eye Check-Ups
Regular eye examinations help detect early signs of infection, dryness, or corneal damage. This is especially important for long-term lens users in areas like Wakad, Thergaon, and Ravet.
Contact Lens Care – DON’Ts
1. Don’t Wear Lenses for Long Hours
Overwearing lenses can cause dryness, redness, and corneal damage. Give your eyes enough rest.
2. Don’t Sleep or Swim With Lenses On
Swimming or bathing with lenses increases exposure to harmful microorganisms. Sleeping with lenses increases infection risk.
3. Don’t Use Tap Water or Saliva
Tap water and saliva contain bacteria that can cause serious eye infections. Always use sterile lens solution.
4. Don’t Share Contact Lenses
Never share lenses with others, even cosmetic lenses. Sharing can spread infections.
5. Don’t Use Expired Lenses or Solutions
Expired products lose their effectiveness and may harm your eyes.
6. Don’t Ignore Eye Discomfort
Redness, pain, watering, or blurred vision are warning signs. Ignoring them can worsen the condition.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
If you experience any of the following symptoms, remove your lenses immediately and consult an eye specialist:
- Red or painful eyes
- Excessive watering
- Burning or irritation
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred or reduced vision
Early treatment by an experienced ophthalmologist can prevent serious complications.
Who Should Avoid Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses may not be suitable for everyone. You may need special care or alternatives if you have:
- Severe dry eyes
- Frequent eye infections
- Allergies
- Certain corneal conditions
- Poor lens hygiene habits
An expert evaluation by Dr. Rachana Tiwari Patil, Ophthalmologist at Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, can help determine whether contact lenses are right for you.
Expert Contact Lens & Eye Care in Chinchwad, Pune
Dr. Rachana Tiwari Patil is a highly experienced Consultant Ophthalmologist & Phaco-Refractive Surgeon providing advanced eye care services at Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, Pune. She offers comprehensive eye examinations, contact lens guidance, dry eye management, cataract evaluation, and modern eye treatments for patients from:
- Chinchwad
- Wakad
- Thergaon
- Ravet
- Punawale
- Pimpri-Chinchwad and nearby areas
Her patient-centric approach ensures safe, personalized, and evidence-based eye care.
When to Consult an Eye Specialist in Chinchwad
You should visit an eye doctor if you:
- Are a first-time contact lens user
- Feel discomfort while wearing lenses
- Have frequent redness or dryness
- Want to switch lens type
- Need guidance on proper lens care
Timely consultation helps preserve eye health and ensures comfortable vision.
Conclusion
Contact lenses can be safe and comfortable when used correctly. By following proper contact lens care Do’s and Don’ts, you can avoid infections and protect your eyesight for years to come. Remember, your eyes are delicate, and small mistakes can have long-term effects.
If you are searching for a trusted eye specialist in Chinchwad, Wakad, or Thergaon, consult Dr. Rachana Tiwari Patil at Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, Pune for expert guidance and advanced eye care.
📍 Chetna Hospital, Chinchwad, Pune
👩⚕️ Dr. Rachana Tiwari Patil
Consultant Ophthalmologist & Phaco-Refractive Surgeon
📞 9168690448 | 9158681123
