A VISION expert has issued a major health warning over a common Halloween costume accessory that is “incredibly dangerous”.
As Halloween veers closer, those prepping the perfect costume for their night of trick or treating, may be tempted to turn to this accessory to complete their look.
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Colour contact lenses have become increasingly popular but one optometry expert has warned that improper use of them result in serious consequences.
Although they can be a stunning addition to any outfit, Stephen Hannan, the Clinical Services Director at Optical Express, has issued a “serious” warning about the dangers of non-prescription contact lenses.
These non-prescription colour contact lenses are often used as part of spooky costumes, but unregulated or ill-fitted lenses can cause major long-term damage to your eyesight.
According to research conducted by the American Academy of Opthalmology, improperly fitted lenses can lead to eye infections, corneal scratches and permanent vision loss.
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The Optical Express expert also warned that those who do not commonly wear lenses can be unaware of the hygiene practices required to keep lenses safe.
Hannan said: “Wearing contact lenses that haven’t been prescribed by a qualified eye care professional can be incredibly dangerous.
“Poorly fitted lenses can cause a number of issues such as restricting oxygen flow to the cornea and can cause irritation or infection, potentially leading to severe outcomes such as corneal ulcers or vision impairment.
“Many of the risks stem from the fact that these lenses are often made from materials not intended for contact with the eye.
“Additionally, people who don’t regularly wear lenses may not be aware of the handling or hygiene practices required to avoid complications.
“Some of the common complications that are linked to costume lenses include allergic reactions from lenses containing dye, corneal abrasions from poorly fitted lenses and reduced vision.”
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The optometrist warned against purchasing coloured contact lenses from unregulated sources and instead advised that people head to a qualified optometrist to obtain lenses suited to their eyes.
He added: “Halloween should be fun and exciting, but it’s crucial to protect your eyes while enjoying the festivities.
“Just one night of using unsuitable lenses could result in lasting lifelong damage to your vision.”
For more advice on how to look after your vision health, visit opticalexpress.ie.
Tips for wearing contact lenses
DO:
- Wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses or touching your eye.
- Stop wearing your lenses if your eyes become red or sore – contact us for advice.
- Clean your lens case regularly and allow it to air dry.
- Check that the prescription on the lens packaging is correct.
- Check your contact lens solution instructions before use.
- Insert your lenses before applying eye make-up.
- Return for all the aftercare visits recommended by your optician.
- Contact us if you have any concerns or queries, however trivial they may seem.
- Throw away your lenses after the recommended period.
- Replace your lens case regularly.
- Replace the tops of solution bottles after use.
- Use fresh solution to store your lenses.
- Dispose of solution bottles after the recommended period.
DON’T:
- Use tap water to store, clean or rinse your contact lenses or case.
- Ignore problems or discomfort with your lenses.
- Reuse the solutions of saline in your lens case.
- Wear your lenses longer than advised.
- Ignore problems or discomfort with your lenses.
- Hesitate to contact us if you have a problem.
- Handle your lenses with sharp nails as they can easily tear.
- Use your lenses for swimming, hot tubs or water sports, unless wearing goggles.
- Wear your lenses when showering unless you keep your eyes firmly closed.
- Lick your lenses.
- Sleep in your lenses (unless advised by your optician, as this can increase the risk of infection).
- Wear your lenses if you are using eye drops prescribed by your doctor.
- Change your cleaning regime without contacting us for professional advice.
Aoife Horan
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