Welcome to My Eye Doctor Towson, where your eye health and safety are our top priorities. We understand the importance of maintaining good contact lens hygiene to promote healthy eyes and prevent infections. Our team of experienced optometrists and ophthalmologists are here to provide comprehensive eye care services, including contact lens exams and fittings. In addition to our eye care services, we also offer a wide selection of eyeglasses and sunglasses to suit your style and needs.
Understanding Contact Lens Hygiene
When it comes to contact lens usage, proper hygiene practices are crucial for maintaining good eye health. According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, approximately 99% of contact lens wearers reported at least one behavior that put them at risk for a contact lens-related eye infection. Explore Find Lasting Relief For Dry Eyes: My Eye Doctor Towson for more information.
At My Eye Doctor Towson, we recommend scheduling regular eye exams to ensure your contact lenses are fitting properly and your eyes are healthy. Our experienced optometrists will evaluate your eyes and provide recommendations based on your unique needs. Located on York Rd, our clinic is easily accessible for residents of Towson and the surrounding areas.
The Importance Of Clean Contact Lenses
Clean contact lenses are essential for maintaining the health of your eyes. Here are some reasons why clean contact lenses are important:
- Prevents bacterial and fungal infections: Dirty lenses can harbor bacteria and fungi, which can lead to infections of the ocular surface.
- Reduces the risk of corneal ulcers: Corneal ulcers can occur when the surface of the eye is damaged by bacteria or fungi.
- Protects the amniotic membrane: The amniotic membrane covers the surface of the eye and helps promote healing. Clean lenses protect this delicate membrane from irritation and infection.
To ensure clean contact lenses, it is important to follow proper cleaning and storing techniques. Let’s explore some common mistakes in contact lens care that you should avoid.
Common Mistakes In Contact Lens Care
Proper contact lens care is essential for maintaining good eye health. However, many people make common mistakes that can put their eyes at risk. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Sleeping in contact lenses: Leaving contact lenses in overnight can increase the risk of eye infections and other complications.
- Using tap water to clean lenses: Tap water may contain harmful bacteria and other contaminants that can cause eye infections.
- Not replacing lenses as prescribed: Overusing contact lenses beyond their recommended lifespan can lead to eye irritation and infections.
- Skipping regular eye exams: Regular eye exams are important for ensuring proper contact lens fit and detecting any underlying eye conditions, such as dry eye or corneal abnormalities.
At My Eye Doctor Towson our experienced eye doctors are here to help guide you through proper contact lens care and address any concerns you may have. We utilize advanced technology, such as retinal imaging, to ensure the health of your eyes is closely monitored.
Steps For Safe Contact Lens Usage
Proper contact lens usage involves a combination of hygiene practices and following the guidelines provided by your eye care professional. Here are some important steps for safe contact lens usage:
Proper Handwashing Techniques
Proper handwashing is crucial before handling your contact lenses. Follow these steps for effective handwashing:
- Wet your hands with clean, running water.
- Apply soap and lather your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Rub your hands together, making sure to clean all surfaces, including between your fingers and under your nails.
- Rinse your hands thoroughly with clean, running water.
- Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them.
Proper handwashing helps prevent the transfer of bacteria and other contaminants to your contact lenses, reducing the risk of eye infections.
Cleaning And Storing Your Lenses
Cleaning and storing your contact lenses correctly is essential for maintaining their cleanliness and preventing eye infections. Here are some important tips:
- Follow the cleaning and disinfection guidelines provided by your eye care professional.
- Use approved contact lens solutions to clean and store your lenses.
- Avoid using tap water or saliva to clean your lenses, as they can introduce harmful bacteria.
- Replace your contact lens case every three months to prevent bacterial growth.
- Rinse your contact lens case with fresh solution after each use and allow it to air dry.
If you have any questions about cleaning and storing your contact lenses, our experienced optometrists at My Eye Doctor Towson are here to help. We also offer frames adjustments to ensure your glasses fit properly and comfortably.
Tips For Avoiding Contamination
To minimize the risk of contamination, follow these tips:
- Avoid touching your contact lenses with dirty or wet hands.
- Remove your contact lenses before swimming or using hot tubs.
- Avoid using expired contact lenses or solutions.
- Replace your contact lenses as prescribed by your eye care professional.
- Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams to ensure your prescription is up to date.
By following these steps for safe contact lens usage and practicing proper hygiene, you can minimize the risk of eye infections and maintain good eye health.
The Role Of Dry Eye Center of Maryland In Eye Health
At My Eye Doctor Towson, we understand the impact of dry eye on your overall eye health. That’s why we have a dedicated Dry Eye Center of Maryland, staffed by experienced optometrists and ophthalmologists. Our Dry Eye Center provides specialized care and treatment options for patients suffering from dry eye syndrome.
The Dry Eye Center of Maryland offers a comprehensive range of services to address the unique needs of each patient. Our team of experts utilizes advanced diagnostic tools to assess tear quality and quantity, identify underlying causes of dry eye, and develop personalized treatment plans.
Here is a breakdown of the services offered at our Dry Eye Center:
| Service | Description |
| Tear Film Evaluation | Comprehensive evaluation of tear film composition and quality to identify the root cause of dry eye symptoms. |
| LipiView® Assessment | Non-invasive imaging technology that measures the quality of the tear film and evaluates the function of the oil glands. |
| Punctal Plugs | Tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to help retain moisture in the eyes and alleviate dry eye symptoms. |
| Prescription Eye Drops | Customized eye drops designed to address the specific needs of each patient, providing relief for dry eye symptoms. |
| Amniotic Membrane Therapy | Application of amniotic membrane to the ocular surface to promote healing and reduce inflammation in severe dry eye cases. |
| IPL Therapy | Intense Pulsed Light therapy to reduce inflammation and improve meibomian gland function in patients with dry eye. |
If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, such as redness, irritation, and blurred vision, schedule an appointment at our Dry Eye Center of Maryland. Our experienced optometrists and ophthalmologists will provide a thorough evaluation and develop a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and improve your eye health.
Conclusion
Safe contact lens hygiene is crucial for maintaining healthy eyes. By following proper handwashing techniques, cleaning and storing your lenses correctly, and avoiding contamination, you can prevent eye infections and discomfort. Remember, clean contact lenses are essential to prevent complications. At My Eye Doctor Towson, we prioritize your eye health and provide expert guidance on safe contact lens practices. For more personalized advice and support, get in touch with us today. Your eyes deserve the best care possible.
