Contact Lens Hygiene: Expert Advice on Risks After Water Exposure
‘My contact lens fell on the sink and came in contact with a drop of water; but I cleaned it with solution and wore it for the day. Should I go for a checkup?’
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
A Quora user shared concerns about wearing a contact lens that fell into water. Dr. Purendra Bhasin from Ratan Jyoti Netralaya in Gwalior, India, warns that even clean-looking water can harbor harmful microorganisms, potentially leading to infections. He advises discarding the lens and consulting a doctor if symptoms arise.
- 01Contact lenses should not come into contact with water, as it can contain harmful microorganisms.
- 02Rinsing a lens with solution is not always sufficient to eliminate all risks.
- 03Daily disposable lenses should be discarded if exposed to water.
- 04Symptoms like redness or blurred vision after wearing a lens warrant a doctor's visit.
- 05Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial to prevent serious eye infections.
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A recent inquiry on Quora raised concerns about wearing a contact lens that had fallen into water. Dr. Purendra Bhasin, Founder & Director of Ratan Jyoti Netralaya in Gwalior, India, emphasized that tap water and sink surfaces are not sterile and can contain harmful microorganisms, including bacteria and the rare parasite Acanthamoeba keratitis. He advised that while rinsing the lens with a solution may seem adequate, it does not guarantee safety. For daily disposable lenses, the safest course of action is to discard them. If symptoms such as redness, pain, or blurred vision occur after wearing the lens, it is essential to consult an eye doctor. Although the risk of serious infection is low, it is still significant enough to warrant caution. Proper lens hygiene is crucial to prevent infections and maintain eye health.
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This advice highlights the importance of proper contact lens hygiene, which can significantly affect eye health for users.
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