Can You Rinse Rigid Contact Lenses with Tap Water?

Can rigid gas permeable contact lenses be washed with tap water?

Can hard contact lenses be washed with tap water? Thank you.

Yifang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/05/12

Dr. Chen Xuan reply Ophthalmology

Both soft and hard contact lenses should be cleaned with sterile saline solution, and not with tap water.
This is because tap water can sometimes contain amoebic protozoa due to contamination from soil or feces during transportation, which can lead to corneal infections.
Dr.
Hsuan Chen, Director of the Cornea Department.

Reply Date: 2003/05/12

More Info

Rinsing rigid contact lenses with tap water is not recommended due to the potential risks associated with contamination and infection. Tap water, while seemingly clean, can harbor various microorganisms, including bacteria and protozoa, that can lead to serious eye infections. One of the most concerning pathogens is Acanthamoeba, a type of amoeba that can cause Acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful and potentially sight-threatening infection of the cornea.

When it comes to contact lens care, the primary goal is to maintain the cleanliness and safety of the lenses to prevent infections. Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, like soft lenses, require proper cleaning and disinfection. Here are some important points to consider regarding the use of tap water for rinsing RGP lenses:
1. Microbial Contamination: Tap water can contain bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can adhere to the surface of the lenses. When these contaminated lenses are placed on the eye, they can introduce these pathogens, leading to infections.

2. Acanthamoeba Risk: Acanthamoeba is commonly found in natural water sources, including tap water. This organism can cause severe keratitis, particularly in contact lens wearers. The risk is significantly higher if lenses are rinsed with tap water, as the amoeba can easily attach to the lenses.

3. Lens Care Solutions: It is crucial to use appropriate contact lens solutions specifically designed for cleaning and disinfecting lenses. These solutions are formulated to effectively remove debris, kill pathogens, and ensure the lenses remain safe for use. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and storing your lenses.

4. Alternative Rinsing Options: If you do not have access to the recommended lens care solutions, it is better to avoid rinsing your lenses altogether rather than using tap water. If you must rinse your lenses, consider using sterile saline solution or a multipurpose contact lens solution that is safe for your specific type of lenses.

5. Consult Your Eye Care Professional: If you have any concerns about lens care or if you experience any discomfort or changes in vision, it is essential to consult with your eye care professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and eye health.

In summary, rinsing rigid contact lenses with tap water is not advisable due to the risk of contamination and potential eye infections. Always use appropriate lens care solutions to ensure the safety and health of your eyes. If you have further questions or concerns about your contact lens care routine, please reach out to your eye care provider for guidance.

Similar Q&A

Essential Care Tips for Rigid Contact Lenses to Prevent Infections

Hello... I saw that due to infrequent cleaning of contact lenses, there can be an invasion by amoebas. I read in the newspaper that they can also thrive in water, so it's advised not to wash them with water. However, I have rigid gas permeable lenses, and I clean them with t...

Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology
Hello! Amoebas can exist in tap water and even in distilled water, so it is advisable not to wear contact lenses while swimming or bathing. Best wishes for health from Dr. Wang Zhang-ji, Ophthalmologist, Taoyuan City Health Bureau.

Essential Tips for Wearing Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses

Hello Dr. Feng, I am a wearer of rigid gas permeable contact lenses. May I ask if it is okay to rinse the lenses with regular tap water before wearing them? Or can I use saline solution? (I recall that saline solution is specifically for soft lenses.) The optical shop previousl...

Dr. Feng Jiefan reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Hard contact lenses should not be rinsed with tap water, as it may contain amoebic protozoa and other pathogens that can cause corneal ulcers. Saline solution can be used to rinse the lenses, but it is prone to contamination and may carry viruses. Using a preservative solu...

Can I Use Preservative-Free Contact Lens Solution for Rinsing?

I would like to ask the doctor, when taking contact lenses out of the solution, is it acceptable to rinse them with a preservative-free saline solution that contains no mercury before putting them in the eyes? Could the preservatives harm the eyes, or should I use regular saline ...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello YT: Preservative-free, mercury-free contact lens cleaning solution can be used; however, there is a certain shelf life after opening the bottle, and it should not be used beyond that period. Online answers can only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek...

Common Household Liquids and Their Effects on Eye Health

Hello, I would like to ask a few questions. In daily life, various liquids may come into contact with the eyes. For example, my eyes have come into contact with shampoo, water containing laundry soap, water containing laundry detergent, water containing salad dressing, water cont...

Dr. Hu Yusheng reply Ophthalmology
Hello: 1. Please rinse immediately with clean water. 2. It depends on the individual's corneal and cellular tolerance. 3. I believe that once a chemical substance enters the eye, it can still cause degeneration of the cornea and ocular tissues. Wishing you peace and health.