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Contact lenses are extremely popular world over as fashion statements and to improve eye sight. The lens when wearing a contact lens is placed right over the cornea. The cornea is defined as the clear front portion of the eye where light rays are bent and focusing occurs. The cornea has no blood supply and derives oxygen directly from the air itself.

According to ophthalmologists and other doctors who specialize in diseases of the eyes, those who wear contact lenses must protect the cornea from problems like the abnormal growth of blood vessels and irritations caused by lack of oxygen and chemicals.

Contact lens wearers must be aware of safety procedures and be sure to observe them:

1.Avoid the temptation to wear colored contact lenses. Studies have shown that colored lenses worn in the eyes reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches the cornea. The FDA has reported that decorative colored contact lenses can cause: conjunctivitis, corneal edema, allergic reactions, corneal abrasions, reduction in vision, sensitivity such as inability to contrast and so on. Details are at: http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2003/NEW00955.html.

2.Contact lens wearers must follow the rules of hygiene recommended by the contact lens manufacturer and doctor. The lenses must be stored correctly and never worn beyond the stipulated time.

3.Protect your eyes against infections by never using saliva, strange soaps, and un-sterilized water or solutions to clean the lenses.

4.Always consult a doctor if there is any eye redness or irritations.

5.Buy contact lenses from reputable manufacturers and follow the instructions given by the doctor about wear and tear.

6.If you wear make up follow strictly the rules and never allow eye make up or creams to get on to the contact lenses. Isert lens before applying eye make up and remove lenses before removing the make up. Try and use only water based cosmetic formulations.

7.The lens solutions must be recommended by a doctor. Keep the tip of the lens solution bottles clean and never use expired solutions.

Before you buy contact lenses consult an eye doctor about the suitability of your wearing lenses. Never buy contact lenses over the counter. Always follow the recommended guidelines for daily wear of contact lenses. When you begin wearing lenses follow the guidelines the eye specialist gives regarding wear and the cleaning schedule. In case you swim or play a contact sport find out whether wearing contact lenses is suitable for such activities. Different lenses are made for different uses, so never wear any contact lenses beyond its recommended wearing period. Store contact lenses correctly to prevent growth of fungi and other bacteria which will harm the eyes.

Know what the pros and cons of wearing contact lenses are and determine whether you are a suitable candidate for wearing lenses.