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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – For more than 38 million Americans, using contact lenses to improve vision is a way of life. Yet, a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that there is indeed room for improvement when it comes to following eye doctors’ guidelines. According to the CDC’s report, nearly 1 million Americans visit doctor’s offices, clinics and hospitals each year for treatment of an infection of the cornea known as keratitis, which results from improper contacts lens use.
Although contact lenses are among the safest forms of vision correction, it’s important to remember that lenses and lens care products are medical devices, regulated by the FDA. When using any medical devices, consumers should stay in close contact with their doctor to ensure they are receiving appropriate and up-to-date clinical guidance based on individual health needs.
In light of this new research, the American Optometric Association (AOA) reminds contact lens wearers to take the proper precautions and practice safe handling of contact lenses. The AOA’s 2014 American Eye-Q® consumer survey data shows that there is in fact vast room for improvement.
· More than half (57 percent) of Americans wear contact lenses longer than recommended. This is a big mistake as this increases deposits and adherence of bacteria to the lens, which can cause damage to the cornea.
· Nearly a quarter of consumers (21 percent) wear contact lenses while sleeping. This is another hazardous habit that can lead to infections and dry eye syndrome.
· 16 percent of Americans soak or clean lenses in water rather than a proper solution.
· 31 percent of people use rewetting drops to clean and disinfect lenses.
· 9 percent of consumers store their contacts in something other than a proper storage case.
The AOA offers the following 6 critical recommendations for all contact lens wearers:
· Wear contact lenses only if they are fitted and prescribed by an eye doctor.
· Make sure contact lenses are properly cleaned and disinfected, as instructed by your eye doctor.
· Wash your hands before handling and cleaning your contact lenses.
· Never swap or share contact lenses with anyone.
· Never sleep while wearing contact lenses, unless they are extended-wear lenses specifically designed for that purpose.
· Never swim while wearing contact lenses. There is a risk of eye infection when contact lenses come into contact with bacteria in swimming pool water.
For more information from the AOA about contact lens hygiene and compliance, please visit aoa.org.
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