Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, can be a contagious condition that affects the eyes. If you wear contact lenses and have recently had pink eye, it’s essential to properly disinfect your contacts to prevent re-infection and to ensure the health of your eyes.
To disinfect contacts after pink eye, it’s important to first throw away any disposable contacts that were worn during the infection. For reusable contacts, follow these steps:
1. Rub and rinse the contacts: Use a multi-purpose solution to gently rub the contacts with clean fingers, then rinse them thoroughly with the solution to remove any debris or residue.
2. Disinfect the contacts: Place the contacts in a clean contact lens case and fill it with fresh multi-purpose solution. Let the contacts soak in the solution for at least 4 hours or as directed by the solution’s instructions.
3. Rinse the contacts again: After disinfecting, rinse the contacts with the solution before wearing them again.
In addition to properly disinfecting your contacts, it’s essential to follow some health tips to prevent the spread of pink eye and to promote eye health in general:
– Wash your hands frequently, especially before handling your contacts.
– Avoid sharing towels or pillows with others if you have pink eye.
– Replace contact lens cases regularly to prevent contamination.
– Follow your eye doctor’s instructions for wearing and caring for your contacts.
– If you experience persistent redness, irritation, or discharge from your eyes, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
By following these steps and tips, you can effectively disinfect your contacts after pink eye and reduce the risk of re-infection or other eye-related complications. Always prioritize the health and safety of your eyes to maintain clear vision and overall wellbeing.