Avoiding a fright this Halloween

The AOP has shared tips and advice for patients who are planning to wear novelty contact lenses for Halloween.

Highlighting the importance of getting contact lenses fitted by a professional, the Association shared that contact lenses carry a risk of eye infections if they are not fitted and cared for properly.

Advice from an optometrist should be sought immediately if a patient experiences any discomfort, the AOP said, adding that danger signs include redness, pain or an aversion to light.

The AOP said that sharing contact lenses can increase the risk of infections, such as bacterial conjunctivitis, and patients should never re-use contact lenses unless they are specifically designed for repeat wear.

While novelty lenses are often available in fancy-dress shops and online, it is illegal to sell them without the supervision of a registered professional because of the risk to eye health, the AOP also noted.

The Association said that unless contact lenses are specifically designed to be worn for long periods of time, patients should never sleep with them in or wear them for more than 16 hours. Patients should never bathe or swim in their contact lenses either.

Thoroughly washing and drying hands before handling contact lenses, replacing the case and using fresh solution to store contact lenses in was also noted as a way to reduce the risk of infection.

For further information, visit the AOP website.