Contact lenses can provide a convenient and effective way to correct vision. In fact, an estimated 45 million Americans wear contact lenses. To enjoy the comfort and benefits of contact lenses, it is important that wearers maintain healthy wear and care habits.

Here are some tips to help protect your eyes:

• Always wash your hands with soap and water before touching your contact lenses or eye.
• Do not rinse or store contact lenses in water.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses while showering or swimming.
• When storing contact lenses, always use fresh contact lens solution.
• Follow the schedule recommended by your eye care provider for wearing and replacing your contact lenses.
• Do not sleep in contact lenses.

If you experience red or irritated eyes, blurred vision or pain, refrain from wearing your contact lenses and contact your eye care provider.

It is important to see your eye care provider each year for a contact lens fit/evaluation. This evaluation is necessary as your provider needs to be sure that the contact lens is resting properly on your eye and that there have been no changes in the fit.