Rather than wearing glasses, many individuals opt for the use of contact lenses. Common problems associated with their use include irritation to the eyelid, the cornea and may even include tearing the film that covers the eye’s outer surface. The best way to lessen the likelihood of any of these conditions appearing is to avoid excessive wear of contact lenses, including overnight wear. Many people choose to wear disposable contact lenses because they require no cleaning and do not carry the potential for bacteria presence, which is a common problem with reusable contact lenses. In an effort to prevent this occurrence, wearers must regularly clean and disinfect their contact lenses in order to maintain both a sanitary surface and clear vision. Along with most prescriptions, an optometrist will provide advice on cleaning, wear time and maintenance. The reason is because some cleansers are to be used exclusively with certain types of contact lenses, which makes it very important that the wearer read the labeling on any solution prior to applying it to his/her contact lenses. One thing that all solutions have in common is that their container should remain closed while not being used.A number of individuals may be sensitive to certain ingredients, which are sometimes included in cleansers used on contact lenses. If an individual suspects that they must have any such sensitivity, they should inform their doctor in order to avoid possible complications. Just as medication is prescribed individually, contact lenses are no different. Therefore, individuals should not share their lenses or use the lense of another wearer. As one may expect, this can cause serious damage and possible infection. In severe cases, the contact lenses may have to be professionally removed if they are inserted into the eye of anyone other than the intended wearer. Severe swelling, infection and eye damage are all possibilities of this action. As a final thought to caring for contact lenses, wearers should wash their hands thoroughly prior to touching the lense or their eyes. The soap should be free of moisturizers or allergens, both of which may cause complications with contact lenses and sensitivity to the eye. The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as, or used in place of, medical advice or professional recommendations for the intended use of contact lenses. If necessary, individuals should consult a optometrist or qualified physician for a proper fitting for contact lenses and additional information on their use and benefits.