Even if your contacts are "extended wear", and you have been told that it is ok to sleep in them, you should know that sleeping in your contacts increases your chances of developing a serious eye infection 10 fold. Bacterial keratitis can cause scarring in the front part of the eye or lead to blindness.

When used properly, contact lenses are great instruments for vision. Just remember to take good care of them and your eyes:

- always clean contacts every night
- replace contacts as scheduled
- do not get in a swimming pool or sauna while wearing your contacts
- if your eye gets red, uncomfortable or painful, see your eye doctor as soon as possible.

Do you have questions regarding your contact lenses?  If so, the following website may be beneficial to you.  It is divided into five sections.

Section one addresses questions about replacement schedules and what could happen if they are not followed.  It also discusses what organisms are most dangerious to the eye and how to avoid complicaitons from them.

Section two clarifies the importance of rubbing lenses after removal, when to discard solutions, what lubricants are okay to use with contact lenses, and how to properly store lenses that are used on occasion. 

Section three emphasizes the proper care of cases.  Cases should be replaced every three months.

Section four describes different environments that may or may not be optimal for contact lens wear.  The effects of showering, swimming, and sleeping while wearing contacts are discussed. 

Section five addresses the issue of purchasing lenses on the internet or in drug stores. 

www.contactlenssafety.com