Now that Halloween is almost here, kids will no doubt be excited to try on different costumes. And while shopping at your local costume store, you might have noticed some contact lenses on display. Are they safe? The short answer is no. I See Vision Care elaborates on why no one should wear them below.
The Problem With Over-the-Counter Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are custom-made according to your eye’s measurements. Look at the lenses’ labels closely—you’ll most likely find a claim saying “one size fits all,” which is a red flag in itself. Wearing the wrong contact lenses can cause eye strain and anxiety on top of declining vision. That’s why the FDA requires clinics and eyewear stores to ask for a prescription before selling contact lenses.
Other Complications
Besides, no one buys their contact lenses from toy stores, salons, and other establishments not related to the medical profession for one simple reason: they don’t have the necessary expertise. Salons and toy stores can’t give you instructions on how to clean them. You’re not even sure if those costume lenses are clean or were approved by the FDA.
Headaches and dizziness are the mildest symptoms you can expect from wearing costume lenses.
If these lenses are also infected with bacteria, you’ll most likely suffer more severe conditions, like:
- A scratched or infected cornea
- Pink eye or conjunctivitis
- Impaired vision
Keep in mind that bacterial infections spread rapidly. If you experience any of the following conditions and fail to seek treatment within 24 hours, you risk permanently damaging your vision. Remember, always buy your contact lenses, or any eyewear for that matter, from establishments that require prescriptions. If you experience double vision or headaches after putting on your lenses, see your eye doctor immediately.
One more thing: it’d be a good idea to schedule routine eye exams for your kids. Their eyes, and consequently, the prescription for their lenses, change as they age.
Looking for optometrists in your neighborhood? I See Vision Care offers a wide range of professional eye care services. To set up an appointment with our highly trained specialists, call us at (561) 733-9008 or leave us a message here. Talk to us today!
Dr. Erin Sonneberg
Dr. Erin Sonneberg, OD, received her Doctor of Optometry degree from New England School of Optometry in Boston, Massachusetts in 2004. She completed her undergraduate studies at City University of New York, Queens College in 2000, where she graduated with honors in business. Dr. Sonneberg relocated to Boynton Beach, Florida, in 2006, and has been practicing alongside prestigious ophthalmologists in the area since that time.
