How NOT to Take Care of Your Ortho-K Lenses

Ortho-K lenses, or orthokeratology lenses, are specialized contact lenses designed to reshape your cornea overnight, providing clear vision during the day without the need for glasses or regular contact lenses. Proper care and maintenance are crucial for their effectiveness and longevity. However, there are several common mistakes that can harm your lenses and potentially your eyes. Here's a quick guide on what NOT to do when taking care of your Ortho-K lenses.

1. Skipping the Cleaning Routine
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is neglecting to clean your lenses properly. Ortho-K lenses need thorough cleaning every day to remove debris and protein deposits. Skipping this step can lead to lens damage and increase the risk of eye infections.

2. Using Tap Water
Never use tap water to rinse or store your Ortho-K lenses. Tap water contains microorganisms and minerals that can adhere to the lenses, causing eye infections or lens damage. Always use the recommended saline solution or multipurpose contact lens solution.

3. Ignoring the Case
Your lens case needs regular cleaning and replacement. Using a dirty case can contaminate your lenses, leading to eye infections. Clean your case with lens solution (not water) and replace it every three months.

4. Overwearing Your Lenses
Ortho-K lenses are designed to be worn overnight and removed in the morning. Wearing them longer than recommended can reduce their effectiveness and increase the risk of complications such as corneal damage or infection.

5. Not Replacing Solution Daily
Reusing the same solution in your lens case is a big no-no. Always discard the old solution, rinse the case with fresh solution, and fill it with new solution each day. This helps maintain a sterile environment for your lenses.

6. Skipping Follow-Up Appointments
Regular check-ups with your optometrist are essential to monitor the health of your eyes and the fit of your Ortho-K lenses. Skipping these appointments can lead to undetected issues that could compromise your vision and eye health.

7. Ignoring Discomfort
If your lenses cause discomfort, redness, or any unusual symptoms, don’t ignore them. Continuing to wear uncomfortable lenses can cause serious eye problems. Remove your lenses and contact your optometrist immediately.

Final Thoughts
Taking proper care of your Ortho-K lenses is crucial for maintaining clear vision and healthy eyes. Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your lenses work effectively and last as long as possible. Always follow your optometrist’s instructions and prioritize hygiene to enjoy the full benefits of Ortho-K lenses.