Contact Lens Care In The Winter Cold
Taking care of contact lenses may require some special considerations during the winter. When it is cold and windy outside and the heat is cranking inside, our eyes are constantly exposed to dry, harsh conditions. Dryness, irritation, and increased susceptibility to infection are not unusual. The following tips for contact lens care in the winter are geared toward keeping the contact lenses moist and helping avoid infection.
Avoiding Dry Eyes
- Humidifier. Indoor heating creates dryness. Using a humidifier when indoors helps combat the tendency for tears to evaporate, making lenses more comfortable to wear.
- Blink more often. Believe it or not, something as simple as blinking more often can help reduce dryness and irritation in eyes in the winter. This is particularly important for contact lens wearers who look at computer screens for extended periods of time on a daily basis.
- Use an advanced lens. There are specialized lenses on the market today that are designed to provide comfort to dry eyes by helping retain moisture.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses. Dry air and cold winds are typical during Nevada winters and serve to dry out contact lenses. Hats and sunglasses help protect the eyes from wind and cold. Sunglasses also have the added benefit of protecting the eye from UV rays.
Avoiding Infection
- Wash hands often. Though contact lens wearers should always wash their hands with warm water and soap before touching their eyes, it is particularly important to do so in the winter when we are more susceptible to infection. The soap used should be free of fragrances, oils, and lotions.
- Be diligent about daily cleaning and care. Daily cleaning, disinfecting, and storage practices should be carried-out with extra care to assure comfort and keep eyes healthy.
- Try disposable lenses. Because disposable lenses are not worn at night, there is less chance for bacteria, lipids, and proteins to build up. A cleaner lens is more comfortable to wear and reduces the risk of infection in the eye. If using disposable lenses, it is important to dispose of the lens as instructed to avoid infection due to the buildup of germs.