Frequently Asked Questions About Contacts

Have you ever woken up with dry eyes after sleeping with your contacts in? Have you ever used your saliva or water when you ran out of contact solution? With nearly 50 million people in the U.S. wearing contact lenses, contacts are widely used. However, proper contact lens usage and proper eye health is not as well known.

Here are answers to common questions about contacts and other eye care basics.

How Bad Is Sleeping With Your Contacts In?

You may have felt the intense discomfort caused by sleeping with your contacts in. The reason for this is that wearing contacts for a prolonged time can lead to dry eyes and can prevent oxygen from reaching your cornea. This can lead to an increased risk of infection.

Infections of the eye can lead to serious complications including vision loss. Even a quick nap may increase your chance of infection, so make sure you take them off before bed.

Can You Use Saliva or Water With Dry Contacts?

Contact solution is made of a unique blend of hydrating materials designed to not only hydrate the contact, but keep it healthy. Using tap water or your saliva may only bring about temporary relief and it may in fact prove dangerous.

Tap water and saliva are not sterile solutions. Harmful bacteria from the tap or your mouth may proliferate on your eyes and lead to diseases. Make sure you only use verified contact solutions for your contacts.

How Often Should You Replace Your Contact Lens?

Make sure you keep your contact lenses case clean to prevent harmful bacteria and irritating dirt from entering your eye. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends replacing your contact lens case every three months or earlier should the case become damaged.

Learn More About Basic Eye Care with Dr. Stuart Sondheimer

Working with a board-certified ophthalmologist is an excellent way to make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your eyes as healthy as possible. Eye care is not always intuitive and having someone experienced and knowledgeable to walk you through what you can do is a must.

If you’re concerned about your eye health, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stuart Sondheimer by calling 847-677-2794.

With a convenient location north of Chicago in Skokie, IL, he proudly services all of the surrounding communities. Having received his medical degree in 1979, Dr. Sondheimer is nearing 50 years of providing incredible care. He’d be happy to help you as well.