Contact lenses are a convenient and effective vision correction solution for millions of people. Unfortunately, a number of contact lens wearers often develop habits that can harm their eyes over time: from discomfort, infections, to even long-term eye health issues.
Don't underestimate the severity of eye infections. To get an impression of the gravity: just google "images of eye infections".
Here are 5 common bad and damaging habits to kick if you use contact lenses:
1. Sleeping or Napping with Contact Lenses
Many people are guilty of wearing their contact lenses overnight, either out of convenience or forgetfulness. Sleeping with contacts reduces oxygen flow to the cornea, increasing the risk of infections and corneal ulcers.
2. Poor Hygiene
Inadequate handwashing before handling lenses or improper cleaning of lenses and contact lens cases can introduce bacteria and dirt to the eyes, leading to serious infections such as keratitis (cornea infection).
3. Wearing Lenses Beyond the Recommended Time
Extending the wear of daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses beyond their intended lifespan can lead to lens degradation, discomfort, and bacterial buildup; aside from the increase in plastic waste.
4. Ignoring Symptoms of Discomfort
Many wearers dismiss redness, dryness, or discomfort as minor issues. However, these symptoms could indicate underlying complications requiring immediate attention.
5. Swimming or Showering with Lenses
Contact lenses can trap harmful microorganisms from water, increasing the likelihood of eye infections, which can potentially lead to sight-threatening conditions.
You need not try your luck with these bad habits because there is a healthier alternative to traditional contact lenses with added benefits: Ortho-K.
Ortho-K
Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K, eliminate the dependence on daily contact lenses and glasses. They are specialised gas-permeable lenses that can be worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea while you sleep, providing clear vision throughout the day without the need for glasses or contacts.
Here are 5 ways Ortho-K can help you overcome the bad habits:
1. No Daily Wear
With Ortho-K, there’s no need to worry about wearing contacts during the day. This eliminates risks associated with poor hygiene, overuse, or accidental sleeping or napping with lenses.
2. Reduced Risk of Infection
Since Ortho-K lenses are only worn at night and are stored in sterile cases during the day, the exposure to environmental irritants and waterborne pathogens is significantly reduced.
3. Freedom for Active Lifestyles
Whether you’re swimming, exercising, or working in a dusty environment, Ortho-K frees you from the limitations of traditional contact lenses or glasses.
4. Convenience and Comfort
By addressing the root cause of vision issues through corneal reshaping, Ortho-K allows wearers to enjoy clear vision without daily maintenance or discomfort.
5. Slowing Myopia Progression
Ortho-K is particularly beneficial for children and teens, as studies show it can slow the progression of myopia (nearsightedness), reducing the risk of severe eye conditions later in life.
Making the Switch to Ortho-K
Transitioning to Ortho-K requires consultation with a trained optometrist who will assess your suitability for the treatment. Once fitted, the lenses are easy to maintain with proper care routines. For individuals struggling with contact lens-related issues or those seeking greater freedom and eye health, Ortho-K is an excellent option.
Bad habits with contact lenses can lead to significant eye health complications over time. Orthokeratology not only offers a solution to these challenges but also enhances overall quality of life by providing clear, hassle-free vision.
So if you’re tired of the risks and restrictions of traditional contact lenses, do consider exploring Ortho-K with us for a healthier and more sustainable alternative.
Did you know: Contact lenses disposal alone generate around 23,000 metric tons of plastic waste annually (equivalent to about 40 football fields with one inch deep of plastic waste). Their improper disposal contributes further to microplastic pollution and environmental harm.