According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, over 36 million Americans wear contact lenses, and those numbers keep growing each day. Contact lenses are a safe and convenient method of vision correction, but they can also pose harmful risks to one’s ocular health if not properly cared for.

The eye doctors of Edwin Y. Endo, O.D. & Associates educate each patient who receives contact lenses for the first time to ensure they are well versed in the proper care techniques. By taking a few quick and easy steps, you can protect your eyes and wear your contact lenses comfortably:

• Always wash your hands with mild soap and water before touching your contact lenses or putting your fingers to your eye.
• Rinse and rub your contacts every day. Always use a specialized contact lens solution to clean your contacts, and never use water. Contact lens solution safely disinfects lenses and removes protein build-up.
• Wash out your contact lens container each day to ensure it is clean and free of debris.
• Do not wear your contact lenses for longer than the prescribed time. For example, if your contact lenses are daily disposable lenses, never wear them for longer than one day.
• Immediately remove contact lenses if they itch or irritate the eyes.

Perhaps most important, visit the Oahu optometrists of Edwin Y. Endo, O.D. & Associates each year to ensure your contact lenses are not damaging your eyes. An annual exam will not only ensure you are using the right prescription, but that you're taking the proper contact lens care and hygiene steps. For more tips about caring for your contact lenses or to schedule an annual eye exam, visit the office of Edwin Y. Endo, OD & Associates at 98-1247 Kaahumanu St, Suite 105.