Wearing contact lenses can be a liberating experience, granting clear, natural vision and freedom from glasses. But as optometrists serving the Glendale Heights area, we see firsthand that contact lens-related infections are all too common—and often completely preventable with the right habits. At iDoctor, our mission is to empower you to enjoy your lenses safely while protecting your eye health for years to come.

Understanding the Real Risks

Most contact lens wearers are surprised to learn that eye infections can develop rapidly and, in some cases, threaten long-term vision. Conditions like microbial keratitis or corneal ulcers may be rare, but they’re almost always linked to preventable lapses in lens hygiene or improper wear. Whether you’re new to lenses or a seasoned pro, the only way to stay protected is through consistent, evidence-based habits—and those habits truly start at home.

1. Start with Spotless Hands

• Always wash your hands thoroughly for more than 20 seconds with non-cosmetic soap and warm water.
• Dry with a lint-free towel to keep fibers and contaminants away from your eyes and lenses.

We recommend forming a routine every time you handle contacts. Touching your lenses with even slightly dirty hands is a leading cause of infection.

2. Master Proper Lens Cleaning

• Rub and rinse lenses as directed: Place the lens in your palm, add fresh multipurpose solution, and gently rub for at least 10 seconds per side. Rinse thoroughly with new solution.
• Never use tap water or saliva. Microbes present in water—including acanthamoeba—are incredibly difficult to eradicate and can cause devastating corneal infections. Saliva is teeming with bacteria, even if your mouth feels clean.

3. Perfect Your Lens Case Routine

• Clean your case every day. After removing your lenses, empty the case, rinse with solution—not water—and leave open to air dry upside down.
• Replace your case every 3 months. Cases can develop biofilms, invisible to the eye but a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
• Always use new solution daily. Never “top off” or reuse old solution, as this diminishes disinfecting power and increases risk.

4. Steer Clear of Water and Overnight Wear

• Remove contact lenses before: showering, swimming, or using a hot tub. Water—even from the cleanest sources—harbors microorganisms that can adhere to lenses.
• Never sleep in your lenses unless specifically designed and prescribed for extended wear—and even then, it’s safest to remove and disinfect every night. Your corneas need oxygen to stay healthy, and closed eyes combined with a lens create an ideal environment for infection.

5. Stick to Your Replacement Schedule

• Daily disposable users: Discard lenses after each use—no exceptions.
• Two-week or monthly lenses: Track your replacement on your phone or calendar and throw away lenses right on schedule. It’s tempting to stretch their life, but doing so greatly increases your risk.

6. Choose Solutions with Care

• Use only solutions recommended by your optometrist. Not all solutions are created equal—if you have sensitive eyes, tend to develop deposits, or wear specialty lenses, we’ll help you pick the best match for your needs. Store-brand or generic options may not always offer reliable disinfection.
• Avoid mixing brands and skipping steps. Stick with one system unless directed to switch, and never substitute saline for disinfection.

7. Protect Against Cross-Contamination

• Never share lenses—not even just to try a new color or style. Microorganisms from another person’s eye can introduce aggressive infections to yours.
• If you develop redness, pain, light sensitivity, or discharge, stop wearing your contacts and get in touch with us promptly. The sooner eye infections are treated, the lower the risk of permanent scarring.

8. Schedule Regular Eye Exams

• Annual exams are your safeguard. At iDoctor, our comprehensive eye exams go far beyond a basic vision check—we use advanced imaging (like Optomap and digital slit lamp biomicroscopy) to catch early signs of irritation, dryness, or infection before they impact your sight.
• Discuss lifestyle and comfort: If your eyes often feel dry, gritty, or uncomfortable in contacts, we’ll review your lenses and fitting to optimize comfort—healthy eyes are less prone to infection.
  Our team is always reachable for quick questions between visits if you have sudden symptoms or concerns.

Contact Lens Wear: Personalized Advice for Your Lifestyle

No two pairs of eyes are exactly alike—and neither are two patients’ routines. Whether you’re a busy professional, a teen starting contacts for the first time, or someone who enjoys water sports, let us know what your days look like. We can match your unique needs with the safest products and realistic habits, from daily disposables for maximum convenience to advanced solutions for sensitive eyes or myopia control. Our goal is always to help you see clearly and safely—with as little hassle as possible.

When to Seek Immediate Help

• Stop wearing your lenses immediately if you experience sudden: redness, pain, blurry vision, discharge, or light sensitivity.
• Contact our office for urgent assessment—even mild-seeming symptoms can progress quickly if left untreated.

Infections like bacterial keratitis can cause lasting damage within as little as 24-48 hours. Better to have a false alarm than to risk your vision.

Bonus Tips for a Healthier Contact Lens Experience

• Bring your lenses and case to your appointments so we can check for wear, deposits, or case contamination.
• Avoid contact lens use during illness (such as colds or seasonal allergies), as mucus and eye rubbing increase your risk of infection.
• Keep a backup pair of glasses handy—never force yourself to wear uncomfortable contacts.

Why Partner with a Local, Boutique Practice?

At iDoctor, located right in Glendale Heights, we are committed to the health and comfort of our community. Unlike large chains, we never rush your visits. Our advanced diagnostic technology allows us to watch for subtle signs of trouble and tailor your lens choices carefully. This personalized approach has made us a trusted name for families and individuals across Glendale Heights, Bloomingdale, Glen Ellyn, and the greater Chicagoland area.

Ready for Your Best Contact Lens Experience?

Protecting your eyes while enjoying the clarity and freedom of contact lenses is possible—when you have expert guidance and a plan you can actually stick with. Our team at iDoctor is here to partner with you every step of the way, from your first fitting to ongoing tips, annual exams, and anything in between.

Have questions about contact lens hygiene, want to review your routine, or schedule a comprehensive eye exam? Contact us today—because your eyes deserve the very best in care, clarity, and comfort.