Other Contact Lens Hazards You May Face During The Summer

Lens wearers need to be aware of safety hazards beyond swimming. If you want to protect your eyes from irritation and damage this summer, take note of the following dangers and take appropriate precautions.

I've found that the life of my lenses is shorter during the hot summer months than it is in the winter — they dry out, and become smaller than they initially were. The sun is one obvious culprit you can protect your lenses from by wearing sun glasses. Air conditioning doesn't do your lenses much good either, though, so make sure air co doesn't blow directly onto your face. Realize that your lenses may not last as long as they would in different weather conditions, even if you take these precautions. When your lenses become uncomfortable or look smaller, or when they simply become "distorted" in shape, don't carry on wearing them and simply open another pair of contacts.

UV rays are another hazard. Again, sun glasses are the answer. Do you hate sun glasses or simply don't want to wear them all the time? You may not know that there is such a thing as UV blocking contact lenses. Ask your optician about them if you are interested in keeping your eyes safe, and look for lenses with Class 1 UV protection. These block as much of 96 percent of UVA rays, and 100 percent of UVB rays.

While we are talking about sun screen, it is good to note that you should make sure you don't get sun screen in your eyes while you are wearing lenses. This is a painful experience that can also cause severe irritation. Wash your hands right after applying sun screen. Do make sure to use a non-dripping sun screen on your face as well, so drops of sweat don't fall into your eyes.

Finally, it is always good to note that spring and summer allergies form another potential problem for contact lens wearers, so swimming pools are not the only issue during the hotter months of the year. If this applies to you, antihistamine eye drops are a good idea. You may be able to obtain them over the counter without a prescription, but it is best to have a chat with your optician before you start using these eye drops. When they are used in the right way, they can save you from itchy and irritated eyes, and enable you to wear your lenses throughout the year when you would otherwise have been forced to wear glasses, instead.

Do you have any other questions about swimming with contacts, or other potential problems you may come across during the summer? Or do you have irritated and inflamed eyes all of a sudden? Remember that your optician is an excellent ally. Don't struggle with contact-related problems by yourself, and always ask questions if you are unsure about anything. In the meantime, remove your lenses and temporarily wear glasses if you have any discomfort whatsoever.