General tips about contact lenses
Under Irish law, contact lenses can only be fitted by optometrists, contact lens dispensing opticians and medical practitioners. It’s important that contact lenses aren’t purchased without first getting professional advice.Contact lenses, while not medical devices, can still pose a risk to your child’s health if not bought under professional supervision.Contact lens prescriptions are valid for a maximum of 12 months. It’s important that your teen visits the eye care specialist regularly and always follows their advice.Always ensure that your teen follows the instructions that come with lenses and that they speak to you or an optician if there are any concerns.Retain the product packaging from the lenses, as you may need the lot (batch) number if your teen develops a bad reaction.If your teen is experiencing eye pain, blurred vision, swelling or unusual redness, they should remove the lenses. A combination or any of these symptoms may signify an eye infection. It’s a good idea if they bring their contact lenses, lens case and solution with them to their eye appointment.If your teen plays sports, ensure that they speak to their eye care practitioner in order to prevent injury and infection.It’s also advisable that your teen carries a back-up pair of glasses with a current prescription in case there are problems with the contact lenses.
 
Top tips for lens wearers
Your teen should only wear his lenses as prescribed. The eye care specialist will recommend a wearing schedule that is specific to your child’s needs. He should only wear contact lenses for the recommended time.
It’s so important that your teen washes their hands with warm water and soap before touching their contact lenses as this reduces the risk of eye infections.
To prevent any discomfort or irritation, it’s important to ensure that the lens is facing the right way before insertion.
If your teen wears make-up, she should put her lenses in before putting make-up on and take them out before removing it. Aerosol sprays such as hairspray and deodorant should also be used before putting lenses in as these can coat them and cause irritation.Face creams should be used with care around the eyes as they can irritate them and the contact lens.Your teen should not put their lens back in their eye if the lens looks damaged, torn or ripped.Lenses should never be put in the mouth to moisten them as saliva is not sterile and could cause infection.
Never wear another person’s contact lenses.Your teen should not sleep in contacts unless advised by a specialist.
 
Top tips for lens solution and storage
Contact lenses should be cleaned and stored as prescribed. Different types of lenses require special care and certain products. Always use the products that have been advised by the eye care specialist.Only use fresh solution to clean and store lenses. Never re-use old solution.Change the lens solution when the manufacturer recommends, even if you do not use your lenses every day.
 

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