Proper Contact Lens Care Can Save Eyes

By Ima Aimi Nadia Ibrahim ALOR SETAR (Kedah, Malaysia), Nov 4 (Bernama) -- Contact lenses are all the rage among teenagers today, who use them not only for corrective but cosmetic purposes as well. Some don coloured contact lenses in the hopes of mimicking the look of their favourite celebrities while others wear lenses to make the iris appear larger, giving them a more doe-eyed look. These fashion contact lenses come in three types namely hard, silicone and soft (disposable). Soft contact lenses are popular among wearers as they are safe and easy to use, are low in maintenance costs and have a reduced risk of infection. However, hectic schedules leave wearers with little time to properly care for their lenses and this can be detrimental to the health of their eyes. A recent case sparked social media uproar in which a user almost lost her vision after doctors confirmed her cornea was torn due to the usage of contact lenses, despite proper care. Optometris Wan Sdn Bhd director Wan Nor Zaharah Wan Osman, an optometrist of 20 years, said that contact lenses were not suited for everyone. Therefore, it was best for those intended to wear it to get their eyes checked by a certified optometrist first. PROPER LENS CARE The right kind of lenses can help users see more clearly and comfortably, and to achieve this, potential users need to have their eyes checked first. "Before opting for contact lenses, one should undergo an eye check to gauge the health of their eyes and so that they could select the right type of lenses for their needs. “Users are also advised to buy contact lenses from certified optometrists to ensure that it is of quality," she said. When using contact lenses, due care needs to be given to avoid damage to the eyes. "Only clean hands should touch the c ontact lenses to prevent bacterial infection and lenses should be taken out before bed. Contact lens cases must be kept clean. "If users experience watery or red eyes, they are advised to stop wearing the lenses and immediately get their eyes checked. Some users may still experience problems despite proper lens care," she added. Wan Nor Zaharah said this could happen if a user has been wearing contact lenses from an early age but failed to have their eyes checked periodically. Users need to get their eyes examined at least once every three months, she said. IMPORTANCE OF EYE CARE A person can sustain loss of vision or reduced vision because of an accident, the aging process or health problems such as diabetes and obesity. Secondary blindness caused by an unhealthy lifestyle and diet has also contributed to the rise in the number of Malaysians with this problem. "Cases of secondary blindness among youths used to be rare, but today those as young as in their 30s can be afflicted with it, due to poor lifestyle and dietary habits," he said. Wan Nor Zaharah said it was important for Malaysians to take care of their health and adopt a healthy diet. They also need to check their eyes as early and frequently as possible to catch problems early. LOVE YOUR EYES CAMPAIGN In conjunction with the World Sight Day on Oct 8, Optometris Wan Sdn Bhd conducted the “Love Your Eyes” campaign which provides for the people of Kedah free screening to detect eye problems like cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration and computer vision syndrome. The campaign was held to raise awareness among the public on the importance of eye care by catching problems early through regular examinations. Those interested in a screening can visit Optometris Zaharah located on Jalan Tunku Ibrahim, here, -- BERNAMA