No, it is generally not okay to wear old contacts due to the increased risk of eye infections and other complications.
Wearing old contacts, whether they are past their expiration date or daily disposables reused, significantly elevates the chances of developing serious eye problems. Here's a breakdown of why:
Risks Associated with Wearing Old Contacts:
- Increased Risk of Infection: Contact lens solutions, including those used to store lenses, can become contaminated with bacteria and fungi over time, especially after the expiration date. These microorganisms can lead to severe eye infections such as bacterial keratitis, which can potentially cause vision loss.
- Material Degradation: The contact lens material itself can degrade over time, becoming brittle and less comfortable. This degradation can also lead to microscopic tears or damage to the lens, creating rough surfaces that irritate the eye and increase the risk of infection.
- Reduced Oxygen Permeability: As lenses age, their ability to allow oxygen to reach the cornea can decrease. This oxygen deprivation can lead to corneal neovascularization (growth of new blood vessels into the cornea), which can permanently impair vision.
- Accumulation of Deposits: Over time, proteins, lipids, and other debris from your tears can accumulate on the lens surface. Even with regular cleaning, these deposits can build up, causing discomfort, blurry vision, and an increased risk of allergic reactions and infections.
- Expired Solutions Harbor Bacteria: Expired contact lens solution loses its effectiveness and can actually become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and fungi.
Why You Shouldn't Reuse Daily Disposable Lenses:
Daily disposable lenses are designed for single use only. Reusing them poses significant risks because:
- Lack of Proper Cleaning: They are not designed to withstand thorough cleaning and disinfection.
- Thin Material: The thin material is more prone to tearing with extended wear, causing discomfort and potential corneal abrasions.
What to Do with Expired or Old Contacts:
- Dispose of Expired Lenses: Throw away any contact lenses that have passed their expiration date.
- Follow Your Eye Doctor's Instructions: Adhere strictly to your eye doctor's recommendations for lens replacement schedules.
- Never Reuse Daily Disposables: Always discard daily disposable lenses after a single day's use.
- Proper Cleaning & Storage: Use the correct contact lens solution and cleaning techniques as prescribed by your eye doctor.
Summary
Wearing old or expired contact lenses, or reusing daily disposables, is a risky practice that can lead to serious eye infections, discomfort, and potential vision loss. Always follow your eye doctor's instructions for lens replacement and care to maintain optimal eye health.
