Dangers of Wearing Old Contact Lenses

If you wear contact lenses in Pittsburgh, PA, you need to know that wearing old or expired contacts can be risky. Old contacts can cause various eye infections and complications with serious consequences. Following are the dangers associated with wearing old or expired contact lenses.

Bacterial Infections

Wearing old contact lenses increases the risk of bacterial infections, which can be a severe threat to eye health. As contacts age, they become porous, allowing bacteria and other microorganisms to penetrate the lens material. Bacterial infections can lead to bacterial keratitis, which infects the cornea and can cause permanent vision loss if untreated.

Corneal Ulcers

Wearing old contact lenses also increases the risk of developing corneal ulcers, which are open sores on the cornea caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Corneal ulcers can be painful and lead to vision loss, requiring antibiotics or anti-fungal medication.

Eye Irritation and Dryness

Old contact lenses can cause eye irritation and dryness, as the lens material deteriorates and becomes rough and scratchy. The loss of moisture retention in the lens itself is what causes dryness and discomfort.

Inadequate Vision Correction

As old contact lenses age they become warped or damaged, leading to blurry vision and eye strain. This can make it difficult to perform daily tasks or operate machinery safely. Essentially, you’re wearing contact lenses that are not the prescription that your eye doctor in Pittsburgh, PA gave you.

Contact Lenses Have Expiration Dates

To prevent the risks associated with old contact lenses, it’s essential to replace them regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommended lifespan, which varies from one day to a month depending on the type of lens. The expiration date is located on the box and on the individual container.

By taking proper care of your eyes and following good contact lens hygiene, you can ensure clear vision and avoid potential complications associated with wearing old contact lenses. Contact us to book an appointment to have your contact lens prescription updated.