Ask Dr. Klute | I use tap water to store my contact lenses when I run out of solution. Is that okay?
I use tap water to store my contact lenses when I run out of solution. Is that okay?
This is a big no-no.
Tap water, while safe to drink in most cases, can contain microbes that can attach to contact lenses and infect the eye.
The most common microbe originating from tap water that infects the eye is called acanthamoeba. Acanthamoeba infections, although rare, are painful, difficult to treat, and often result in permanent vision loss. Steer clear!
The good news is that you can prevent this from happening to you. Always use contact lens solution to clean and store your lenses. If you don’t, throw the lenses away. Even better, switch to a daily disposable lens so that you never have to store your lenses again and have a new, clean lens everyday. Or if you are the right candidate, consider LASIK surgery to become free of contact lenses.
If you are interested in hearing more about these options and many more, schedule an appointment with us at www.GoodLifeEyecare.com.