From August 21 to 25, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will be organizing the fourth Contact Lens Health Week. The purpose of the event is not only to celebrate such a wonderful technology but also to raise awareness about the proper usage and care for contact lenses.
This year, the CDC reinforces its campaign towards healthier eyes. The theme of the event is “Healthy habits mean healthy eyes.” The organization’s goal is to encourage younger generations to adopt the habit of caring for their eyes as early as they can. The health messages use by the group is focused on three key areas:
Healthy contact lens hygiene habits.
The CDC wants the youth to realize that good hygiene is one of the most important factors leading to healthy eyes. More than using the right contact lens solution, this area covers different habits, such as washing your hands before you handle your lenses. Many eye problems, often in the form of infections, originate from poor contact lens hygiene and can be avoided by placing due emphasis on cleanliness.
Proper use, care, and storage of contact lenses and supplies.
More than anything, contact lenses are medical tools and caring and maintaining for them should be a given. They are in direct contact with the eyes, so you should take the right precautions to ensure that they are safe for use. Keep them clean at all times by using the appropriate disinfectant and store them in proper containers. Additionally, do not wear them far longer than you should.
Regular visits to an eye care provider.
The eyes are always coping with various demands, and contact lenses must be able to meet the needs of your eyes. There may be times when you feel discomfort while wearing your lenses. Or you may find that they don’t seem to be as effective as they were. Regularly visiting a doctor means you are able to find lenses that meet your needs and that you detect any problem related to your eyes. This is also important considering how many eye conditions, even those that originate from faulty and misused contact lenses, often do not have readily perceivable symptoms.
One of the infographics launched by the CDC for the celebration accurately reflects the proper behavior towards contact lenses. Called “Contact Lenses Are Like Underwear,” it explains the essential dos and donts of contact lens use in a cheeky manner. The CDC has also launched a variety of other content and materials to be employed in the event.
Contact lenses have become so prevalent that many of their users forget what they actually are. Even their cosmetic versions need to be handled with care as they can have a tremendous impact on the eyes. Used appropriately, contact lenses are wondrous inventions indeed, but when misappropriated, they can cause irreversible damage. The CDC’s campaign is a great step as it addresses a common problem, especially among the youth, many of whom take contact lenses and their eyes for granted.
