Keeping Your Eyes Happy: Contact Lens Hygiene During Cold and Flu Season

Cold and flu season is back, and if you wear contact lenses, you might be wondering whether it’s safe to wear them when you’re feeling a little under the weather. At Martyn Kemp Opticians, we want to help you see clearly and stay comfortable all year round.

Here’s all you need to know about wearing contacts during cold and flu season, and how to keep your eyes protected from irritation and infection.

Wearing Contact Lenses When You’re Feeling Under the Weather

If you’ve got a cold, it’s usually fine to wear your contact lenses. But your eyes might appreciate a little break. When you’re not feeling your best, glasses can be a lot easier and safer.

Your eyes are one of the easiest places for germs to enter your body. If you touch or rub them without washing your hands properly, you can spread bacteria or viruses and increase your risk of developing infections such as conjunctivitis (pink eye).

Because contact lens wearers touch their eyes more often, practicing proper hygiene is extra important during cold and flu season.

Top Tips for Contact Lens Wearers During Cold and Flu Season

1. Give your eyes a rest

If you can, wear your lenses for shorter periods or switch to glasses for a few days. Your eyes will thank you for the break.

2. Wash your hands properly

Before handling your lenses, wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds, then dry them with a clean, lint-free towel. 

3. Keep your lens case clean

If you use reusable lenses, make sure you clean and disinfect your lens case regularly, and replace it every couple of months.

4. Stick to glasses if you’ve got a fever or eye infection

If you’re feeling particularly unwell or your eyes are sore, let them rest. Wearing glasses instead of lenses helps them heal and stops germs from spreading to your lens case.

5. Try daily disposables

If you often get colds or allergies, daily disposable lenses are a great option. You use a fresh pair each day, so there’s no build-up of bacteria or worry about cleaning routines when you’re not feeling your best.

6. Keep your eyes from drying out

Colds, flu, and some medicines can dry your eyes out. Use some eye drops or other dry eye products to keep them hydrated and comfortable. We have a range of dry eye products at Martyn Kemp Opticians that can help ease discomfort.

Once You’re Feeling Better

When you’ve recovered, start wearing your lenses again gradually. Your eyes might still be a bit sensitive, so ease back into your normal routine slowly.

It’s also a good idea to replace any lenses or cases you used while you were sick to make sure no germs hang around. And keeping up those good habits, such as clean hands, fresh solution, and tidy lens care, goes a long way in keeping your eyes happy and healthy.

Look After Your Eyes This Cold and Flu Season

A little extra care goes a long way when you wear contact lenses, especially during cold and flu season. If your eyes start to feel dry, irritated, or just not quite right, switch to your glasses and contact Martyn Kemp Opticians for advice or book an eye exam.