Many people rely on prescription contact lenses for vision correction. These lenses, unlike glasses, are less affected by weather changes, making them an ideal choice for those wondering how to effectively wear contact lenses in smog. They offer better peripheral vision and remain clear, even in foggy conditions. However, during smoggy periods, even these most dependable contact lenses can fog up and become hazy, posing a unique challenge to contact lens wearers.
In this article, we will discuss the challenge and tips for wearing contact lenses in smog.
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Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Smog, a severe type of air pollution where smoke and fog mix with toxic gases, poses serious health risks, including eye and ear allergies. As someone wearing contact lenses, you must take extra precautions to ensure clear vision and prevent potential eye infections when navigating smoggy environments.
The Challenge of Wearing Contact Lenses in Smog
The keyword here is “wear contact lenses in smog.” Smog disrupts the tear film – a protective layer composed of water, oil, and mucus that keeps your eyes comfortable. The water provides moisture, oil prevents the tears from evaporating quickly, and mucus helps spread the moisture evenly. Smog can deplete this tear film, making it uncomfortable to continue wearing prescription contacts.
Dry eyes and irritated eyes are common conditions that can lead to serious eye problems like cataracts. Using eye lubricants can help alleviate symptoms and protect the eyes from long-term damage. However, recent studies have shown that some brands could cause eye infections and vision loss due to potential bacterial contamination.
Practical Tips for Wearing Contact Lenses in Smog
Here are some practical tips to keep in mind when you need to wear contact lenses in smog:
- Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your contact lenses.
- Stay indoors as much as possible, especially during smog breakouts.
- Wear a mask to prevent inhaling air pollutants.
- Pair your prescription contact lenses with protective glasses.
- Keep your eyes lubricated with over-the-counter artificial tears and resort to redness relief eye drops when needed.
- Consider switching to daily or monthly disposable contact lenses during smoggy seasons.
- Disinfect your lenses daily with a strong multipurpose solution. Rub and rinse contacts every night to remove protein debris and pollutants.
- Remember, when in doubt, take your contacts out. Avoid rubbing your eyes when wearing contacts to prevent corneal abrasions.
Case Study: The British Olympians
In 2008, British Olympians navigated through the smog of China by wearing red contact lenses, which helped them focus better in hazy conditions. According to goal keeper Beth Storry, it was easier to see the ball with red contacts in her eyes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when planning to wear contact lenses in smog, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy tear film. Using pharmaceutical eye drops can help lubricate your eyes and clean your lenses while you’re wearing them. By staying aware and taking necessary precautions, you can prevent the detrimental impact of environmental pollution on your vision.
We’d love to hear from you if you’ve ever had to wear contact lenses in smog. What advice would you give to others who have to navigate through smoggy conditions? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
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