Why Do I Need To Change Out My Contact Lenses?
Changing out contact lenses is crucial for maintaining eye health and ensuring the lenses function as intended.
Each contact lens is made to last for a certain amount of time from Daily, Weekly, and Monthly. At the end of the replacement schedule the contact lens starts to breakdown and cause small, microscopic openings. These openings allow bacteria to grow and proliferate, this happens even with a good contact lens cleaner. Here are several reasons why it's important to replace contact lenses regularly:
1. Prevent Eye Infections
Bacterial Growth: Over time, contact lenses can accumulate bacteria, proteins, and lipids from your eyes and environment. This buildup can lead to infections, such as corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis (pink eye), or keratitis (infection of the cornea). Replacing lenses as recommended helps reduce this risk. Making sure to remove makeup before bed and treating demodex is helpful in decreasing bacterial load around the eyes.
2. Maintain Comfort
Lens Build-up: As lenses accumulate debris, oils, and mucus, they can become uncomfortable or feel scratchy. This discomfort can be avoided by replacing them on time, ensuring they remain clean and smooth.
Dryness: Outdated lenses can cause dryness and irritation, as they may lose their ability to retain moisture or become warped.
3. Prevent Complications
Corneal Damage: Wearing contacts beyond their recommended lifespan can cause corneal ulcers, abrasions, or long-term damage to the eye's surface. This can result in vision problems or even loss of sight if not addressed.
Hypoxia (Lack of Oxygen): Extended wear and overwear of contact lenses deprives the cornea of oxygen, leading to hypoxia. The cornea does not receive oxygen supply from the body, rather it absorbs oxygen through the air. Over wearing contact lenses will cause blood vessels to grow onto the cornea which can impact vision and comfort of the eyes.
4. Maintain Clear Vision
Lens Clarity: Over time, lenses can lose their shape or become scratched, leading to distorted vision. Replacing them ensures that your lenses remain in optimal condition for sharp, clear sight.
5. Adhere to Prescribed Schedules
Lens Types and Schedules: Different types of contact lenses (daily, weekly, bi-weekly, monthly) have specific replacement schedules. Adhering to these ensures that your lenses perform as designed, preventing discomfort or health issues.