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Contact lenses can be used as an alternative to spectacles and, with proper care, are a safe, effective and convenient way to correct refractive errors such as myopia (shortsightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), astigmatism and presbyopia (lao hua).

It is important to remember that contact lenses are medical devices that need to be properly fitted by an eye care practitioner who can assess your vision correction needs according to your lifestyle or other conditions. Your work environment, prescription drugs and any eye condition such as dry eyes or allergies affect the choice of lenses suitable for you.

How do I care for my contact lenses?

As contact lenses are in constant contact with the eye, proper cleaning and disinfecting of lenses is very important. Infections of the eye can occur due to poor hygiene and lens care.

Some important contact lens care instructions :

• Always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses.
• Always clean and disinfect contact lenses properly after each use.
• Clean and air-dry the contact lens case everyday. Wash and boil your lens case once a week and replace your lens cases regularly. Do not store lens cases and lens solution in the bathroom.
• Follow exactly the lens care instructions of your eye care professional.
• Do not reuse your contact lens solution. Discard used solutions immediately.
• Do not store contact lenses in non-sterile fluids such as distilled water or tap water.
• Do not wear an over-aged or damaged contact lens.
• Arrange for periodic eye examination (at least six months to yearly) by an eye care professional.
• Avoid wearing lenses overnight (even for extended wear lenses) as this increases the risk of corneal infections.
• Do not wear contact lenses when swimming as this can increase the risk of lens contamination by harmful microorganisms.
• If you have eye redness, discharge or blurring of vision, stop wearing your contact lenses and consult your eye care practitioner or doctor.

Ref. T12