Is it good to wear contact lenses?

Apr 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I usually wear eyeglasses, but they are inconvenient for me. I want to switch to contact lenses instead. However, I'm concerned about potential harm to my eyes. I'd like to ask: are contact lenses safe for long-term use?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Shuai

Wearing contact lenses is generally beneficial, but they may also have certain drawbacks and are not suitable for everyone.

Contacts fit directly on the eye, providing a wider field of vision, making them convenient for studying, working, or engaging in sports. At the same time, they eliminate the inconvenience associated with wearing eyeglasses, such as lenses fogging up in winter or sliding down due to sweat in summer. Contact lenses can help patients with myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and other conditions avoid the limitations of glasses and improve visual comfort, making them especially suitable for sports, dancing, and certain occupational needs.

However, contact lenses are not entirely without disadvantages. Prolonged wear may cause dryness, eye fatigue, and even lead to eye conditions such as keratitis and conjunctivitis. This is because contact lenses cover the surface of the eyeball, reducing contact between the eye and air, which affects the normal circulation of tears and thereby increases the risk of infection. In addition, improper cleaning and maintenance can result in bacterial growth and protein deposits on the lenses, which can harm the eyes.

It is feasible to wear contact lenses properly under professional guidance, but it is essential to prioritize eye health and undergo regular eye examinations.