Contact lenses are widely used for correction of refractive errors. The use of coloured contact lenses for cosmetic reasons has gained much popularity lately.

However, the use of contact lenses is not without risk. Hence it is essential that you consult a trained eye care provider such as an eye specialist, an optometrist or a licensed optician with contact lenses permit prior to using contact lenses.

Reason for consultation:
1. Assessment on suitability for contact lenses wear
2. Ensuring proper fitting of contact lenses
3. Proper education on the care of contact lenses and possible associated complications.
4. Arrangement for regular check up.

You are at higher risk of getting an eye infection if you do not follow the advice on contact lenses wear.

Do you know that contact lenses can lead to the following complications…?

Corneal ulcer
• Is an infection of the cornea
• Is the most serious complication of contact lenses wear
• May cause blindness
• Symptoms:
o Red eye
o Painful eye
o Reduced vision
o Eye discharge

Dry Eye
• Symptoms:
o Eye irritation
o Foreign body sensation

Corneal Abrasion
• Superficial wound on the corneal surface.
• Symptoms:
o Watery eye
o Red eye
o Painful eye
o Reduced vision

Allergic Conjunctivitis
• Reaction of the eye to deposits on contact lenses
• Symptoms:
o Itchy eye
o Red eye
o Stringy eye discharge

Advice on contact lenses wear

DO’s
• Get your contact lenses from an eye specialist, a qualified optometrist, or a licensed optician with contact lenses permit.
• Learn the proper ways of insertion, removal, cleaning, storing and care of contact lenses from your contact lenses providers.
• Wash your hands with soap thoroughly before handling contact lenses.
• Clean your lenses with contact lenses solution recommended by your contact lenses providers.
• Clean and air dry your contact lenses case each time the lenses are removed. Replace the contact lenses case every 6 months.
• Keep finger nails short, trim and clean.
• Have regular eye examinations at least annually or as advised by your contact lenses providers.
• Remove the contact lenses immediately if the eye turns red or uncomfortable, and consult your eye specialist if it still persists.

Don’t
• Do not purchase contact lenses over the counter or via internet without prior consultation from a trained eye care provider, this includes cosmetic coloured contact lenses.
• Do not wear your contact lenses over night, even if they are extended wear lenses as this will increase your risk of eye infection.
• Do not use home made saline, distilled water tap water for contact lenses care.
• Do not swim with your contact lenses on.
• Do not use saliva to wet your contact lenses.
• Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes feel uncomfortable or have irritation.
• Never wear someone else’s contact lenses.