
How Nighttime Vision Can Change
Nighttime vision changes are a little disturbing no matter what your age. Cataracts, weak eyeglass prescriptions, diseases, and aging may contribute to the problem.
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How Often Should I Change My Contact Lens Case?
Wet, dark contact lens cases provide the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Fortunately, you can avoid painful eye infections by replacing your cases regularly and following your optometrist's lens and case care instructions.
Replace Every 3 Months
No matter how carefully you clean your contact lens case, it may still harbor bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The problem is caused by an invisible bacteria-laden coating called a biofilm. The film forms on the wells and lids of the case and may still be present after you clean or soak your case.
The American Optometric Association recommends replacing contact lens cases every three months to reduce your risk of infection. Some contact lens manufacturers suggest replacing the cases as often as every one to two months.
According to an April 2011 article in Review of Cornea and Contact Lenses, 30% to 85% of contact lens cases eventually become contaminated. Unfortunately, the contact lenses stored in the cases can become contaminated too, increasing the chance that you'll develop an infection.
Infections can cause corneal ulcers, painful sores that form on the surface of your cornea. The cornea is the clear layer of tissue that covers your iris and pupil. Severe infections can scar or cloud the cornea, permanently altering your vision.
If you develop a corneal ulcer, you may experience:
Stop wearing your contact lenses and call your eye doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. Prompt treatment will help you avoid serious damage to your corneas or loss of vision.
Contact Case Care Recommendations
Following these guidelines can decrease your infection risk:
Proper cleaning and care of your contact lens cases can help you avoid infections. Contact us if you think you may have an infection, or it's time for your next vision exam.
Sources:
American Optometric Association: Contact Lens Case Care
https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/contact-lenses/case-care
Review of Cornea and Contact Lenses: What is Happening in Your Contact Lens Storage Case?, 4/18/11
http://www.reviewofcontactlenses.com/article/what-is-happening-in-your-contact-lens-storage-case
WebMD: Contact Lenses and Eye Infections
https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/contact-lenses-eye-infections#1
American Academy of Ophthalmology: How to Take Care of Contact Lenses, 9/9/18
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/contact-lens-care