Which practice best reduces infection risk related to water exposure when handling contact lenses?

Which practice best reduces infection risk related to water exposure when handling contact lenses?

• A. Rinse lenses with tap water before insertion.
• B. Wear lenses while swimming to avoid eye irritation.
• C. Remove lenses before swimming or showering and avoid contact with tap water.
• D. Use hot water for cleaning.

Answer: (C)

Water exposure is a major infection risk with contact lenses because non-sterile water can harbor microorganisms that cling to a lens and be carried to the eye. The safest approach is to remove lenses before any water exposure, such as swimming or showering, and to avoid contact with tap water while lenses are in place. This minimizes the chance that contaminated water reaches the lens and eye.

Rinsing lenses with tap water introduces microbes directly onto the lens and into the eye, increasing infection risk. Wearing lenses while swimming submerges the lens in water for extended periods, giving microbes ample opportunity to attach and cause damage. Using hot water to clean lenses isn’t helpful either; it doesn’t disinfect and can warp or damage the lens material, making contamination easier.

So, removing lenses before swimming or showering and avoiding tap water contact while lenses are worn best reduces infection risk. If water accidentally exposes lenses, follow proper removal and cleaning/disinfection steps as recommended by your eye care professional.