4 Rules to prevent eye damage from contact lenses

Today’s blog addresses problems that come from improper contact lens use. If you wear contact lenses, are interested in trying them, or are a parent of a contact lens-wearing child, this is the post for you. I will explain clearly why proper contact lens care is crucial, and then give you some concrete rules to follow so your eyes can stay protected and healthy. Contact lens safety is another important subject that falls into the category of “Things That Should Be Frequently-Asked Questions But Generally Aren’t.”

Confessions of a bad contact lens user

I started wearing contact lenses when I was 12. I know the nice people here at Cascadia Eye talked to me multiple times about the dangers of my bad contact lens habits (I perpetually slept in them) but I never really seemed to understand how crucial good contact lens habits were to my eye health. Looking back, I am amazed that I didn’t cause permanent damage to my own cornea–but I do know I came close. I eventually had to give up contact lenses entirely (I had LASIK at 21 and now wear glasses for driving.)

The problems that come with contact lens abuse

Among eye doctors and technicians, sleeping in contact lenses and caring for them improperly is actually called “contact lens abuse.” And it turns out eye professionals can usually tell if you’re an abuser, no matter what you say at your eye exam, because your cornea (the outermost surface of your eye) will actually look damaged.