As part of Healthy Vision Month (May), Community Health and Dental Care in Pottstown has compiled a list of eye-protection reminders for contact wearers.

The advice is particularly timely, as it applies to the summer season, when wearers are physically more active and outdoor time generally increases.

Before drilling down into specifics, the organization offers a general reminder to have a routine eye exam.

The Mayo Clinic recommends that children get routine eye exams and that adults without vision issues commit to regular exams starting at age 40. By age 60, vision checks are advised every year or two.

For contact lens wearers heading into summer 2023, Community Health and Dental Care offers the following advice:

• Wear sunglasses. The habit of protecting eyes from the sun’s glare is one targeted at people who don’t wear prescriptive lenses of any kind. But for contact lens-wearing individuals, sunglasses can offer additional benefits of reducing scratches from wind-blown particles such as sand, which can be more prominent in summer.
• Remove lenses when swimming. Whether it’s a jump in the waves at the Jersey Shore or a dip in a backyard pool or swim club, it’s always a good idea to remove and store contact lenses before entering the water. Water can enter the eye and cause infection when settling between the lens and the eye surface. Water-tight goggles offer some protection, but they still represent some risk. If pool, ocean, or lake water comes in contact with a lens, it’s best to dispose of it.
• Apply sunscreen for skin protection but keep it away from the eyes. Sun lotion is a universal eye irritant, but for contact lens patients, it can be a contaminant. It’s important to apply sunscreen liberally on the face — including sensitive eyelids — to avoid burning. Extra care, however, can prevent mishaps and discomfort.
• Switch occasionally to traditional eyeglasses. Replacing lenses with frames gives eyes a beneficial rest, even just for a day or weekend.
• Schedule routine exams and, as appropriate, appointments for contact-lens and/or glasses fittings.

Community Health and Dental is ready to help contact wearers and patients with glasses alike with its last piece of summer eye-carer advice. To schedule an appointment, call the Pottstown professionals (610-326-9460) or go to the CHDC website.

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The Community Health and Dental professionals aren’t the only ones advising against wearing contact lenses while swimming.