Scleral contact lenses are a great option for people with unique eye care concerns that make regular contact lenses impractical. To ensure that your scleral contact lenses are maintained properly, Spectrum Eye Care, a top provider of contact lenses and eyeglasses, is here to help you. In this article, we will highlight the dos and don’ts when handling your scleral contact lenses.

What to Do When Using Scleral Contact Lenses

• DO keep your lenses clean. Be sure to keep your scleral contact lenses free of dirt and dust. Before handling your lenses, wash your hands with soap and water. Then, rinse and dry them with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. When you remove your lenses from your eyes, rub them for a couple of seconds with lens cleaner to remove surface debris and bacteria. Rinse them on both sides with saline solution and, finally, store them safely in their case.

• DO use the right products while wearing your lenses. Scleral contact lenses are very large lenses that come in contact with your eyes on the sclera, also known as the white part of your eyes. Between the lens and your eye is a very clear and pure saline solution. This enables the intended vision correction and protects the corneal tissue. For this reason, you should only use the saline solution recommended by your optometrist. Also, remember to use preservative-free products.

• DO follow up with your doctor. Your scleral contact lenses are customized. This means you may need to visit your eye doctor a few times to get the right fit. Even after the fitting process, you should still regularly visit your doctor to ensure that your lenses are still in working condition. Optometrists usually advise a scleral lens checkup every four to six months for best results.

What Not To Do When Using Scleral Contact Lenses

• DON’T sleep with your lenses on. Since your eyes are closed when you sleep, debris that is typically flushed by your tears can collect on or around your lenses. These include dust, bacteria, protein deposits and allergens. The debris can accumulate while you sleep and cause inflammatory reactions or infections. In some cases, the debris can adhere to your eye.

• DON’T use fluids other than the solution prescribed by your doctor. Never use water or saliva to clean, store or lubricate your lenses. If you do, you may bring germs into your eyes. This can cause your eyes to turn red or feel “crusty.”

• DON’T wear your lenses for too long. Some people wear their scleral contact lenses all day. Be sure to properly lubricate them at the end of the day to avoid overwear. Improper lubrication may lead to irritation, inflammation and infection. Thus, be sure to use a high-quality artificial tears solution.

When using your scleral contact lenses, proper cleaning and hygiene are a must. For more inquiries regarding eye care, get in touch with us at Spectrum Eye Care. Call us today at (704) 543-9000 or fill out our contact form to set an appointment. We offer services in Charlotte, NC.