Contact lenses have an excellent safety record — as long as the wearer carefully follows their eye doctor's instructions. October is Contact Lens Safety Month, so there's no better time to brush up on safety tips to keep your eyes and vision healthy while wearing contact lenses.

How to Take Care of Contact Lenses

• Wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them with a paper towel or lint-free towel before handling your lenses
• Clean and disinfect non-disposable lenses according to the directions of the manufacturer or your eye doctor
• Never sleep in your contact lenses (unless they're specifically designed for overnight use)
• Never wear lenses that are damaged or torn
• Avoid contact with water while wearing contact lenses
• See your eye doctor at Dayton Optometric Center regularly for eye checkups

If you develop symptoms such as redness, pain, or blurred vision, contact Dayton Optometric Center to schedule an appointment.

Are All Contact Lenses Safe?

All prescription contact lenses are safe, provided the person wearing them cares for them properly. While having clean hands is a must for any type of contacts, disposable daily lenses don't require maintenance. Single-use lenses are a great option because you simply toss them away after each use, eliminating the need to clean and store your lenses.

In contrast, people who wear reusable soft contact lenses are at higher risk of developing a serious eye infection if they sleep in them or don't disinfect them properly. The risk of developing an eye infection is very low when patients follow safety instructions.

The Dangers of Decorative (Costume) Lenses

Decorative lenses, including colored contacts, can be dangerous to your eye health. It is illegal to buy and sell contact lenses without a prescription. Non-prescription contact lenses can cause serious bacterial and fungal infections, corneal ulcers, and even permanent vision loss. Always wear only lenses that have been prescribed and fitted by your optometrist.

Take care of your eye health this Contact Lens Safety Month and all year long. Visit Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio for all your eye care concerns. Call us at (937) 228-2020.