As the COVID-19 crisis continues, people worldwide are looking for the most effective ways to stay healthy. Many people are reaching out to doctors for guidance and trusted advice. This includes contact lens-wearers who are apprehensive about their chosen form of vision correction during these uncertain times. Our optometrist in Arlington, VA wants you to know the best practices for contact lens safety not only during the current crisis but for every-day use.
With proper hygiene practices, contact lens wear is still a safe form of vision correction. Although face-touching and hand contact is involved in their use, stringent hand washing is sufficient to ensure any germs remain at bay. There is no evidence supporting the notion that wearing eyeglasses is safer than contact lenses.
We’ve heard this many times recently, but it cannot be stressed enough – washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is the most effective way to maintain sterilization when putting in or taking out your contact lenses. Opt for an unused paper towel for drying your hands as well instead of a multi-use hand towel that may harbor germs or bacteria.
If you wear daily contact lenses, make sure to dispose of them after every use. Never try to re-use them. For those who wear two-week or monthly lenses, disinfect them on a regular basis according to your doctor’s and the manufacturer’s directives.
Because viruses and germs can remain on certain surfaces for days, if you wear eyeglasses or spectacles, it’s essential to thoroughly disinfect them regularly.
If you’re sick, discontinue wearing your contact lenses until you’ve recovered. This is true for any sickness as germs spread easily through touch.
For more advice on safe contact lens use, give our optometrist a call at any of the numbers below. To schedule your Visual Health Eye Exam, contact us today or click here to use our convenient online form.
Fairfax: 703-273-6323
Arlington (in Clarendon Metro): 703-566-1856
Arlington in Ballston: 703-576-0144
Falls Church: 703-237-6500
Herndon: 571-520-2130
Springfield: 703-971-2021
Woodbridge: 703-680-7850
Ashburn: 571-291-3604
If you want to learn more about our optometrist practice - where we offer the area's most convenient hours, where we offer a variety of generous payment options, and where your and your child's healthy vision is our top priority - Visual Health Doctors of Optometry is here to serve you!
