What Happens If You Do Not Change Contact Lenses Regularly?

The more often you change your contacts, the more you reduce the risk of vision problems or eye infections. Disposable contact lenses--often worn for only a few days or weeks--are an invention of the 1980s to keep eyes free from bacterial build-up. Easier to clean and posing a lower threat of infection, disposable contacts are a health benefit as long as you change them appropriately.

Protein Build-Up

• Contact lenses have the potential for protein build-up, which increases harmful germs that can cause eye infections. Changing your contact lenses frequently will help avoid this build-up.

Breathability

• Eyes need oxygen, but deposits on contact lenses block the oxygen supply. Even with thorough cleaning, some deposits remain and grow with time--making a frequent replacement cycle essential.

Comfort

• The build-up of protein, lipids, and calcium on contact lenses makes them increasingly uncomfortable to wear.

Vision Problems

• When you don't replace your contact lenses on time, dirt, wear, and tear cause their performance to suffer.

When to Change Them

• If your vision is blurry or your contacts feel oddly dry, or if your eyes have become red or infected, your contacts are probably due for a replacement. Talk to your optometrist to find out how often you should replace your lenses for optimal performance and eye health.