Wearing contact lenses can be life-changing—until they start causing dry eyes, discomfort, or worse, an infection. October is Contact Lens Safety Month, and at Palermo Eye Care, we’re reminding patients that even minor mistakes in lens care can add up to major vision problems.
If you live in Arlington Heights, you’re probably balancing a full schedule, screen time, and seasonal weather changes that can dry out your eyes. Add contact lenses into the mix, and it becomes even more important to follow a care routine that protects your eye health.
Common Habits That Put Your Vision at Risk
We see it all the time: people reuse daily lenses, top off solution instead of replacing it, or stretch their lens wear longer than they should. These seemingly harmless choices increase the risk of eye infection, corneal damage, and even vision loss over time. Other red flags include:
- Sleeping in contacts not approved for overnight use
- Using water instead of disinfecting solution
- Not cleaning or replacing your lens case regularly
- Skipping follow-ups for your contact lens prescription
Contact Lens Materials Matter, Too
Today’s lenses are engineered with silicone hydrogels and other flexible plastics that enhance comfort and allow more oxygen to reach the surface of your eye. But even the best lenses require proper use. That means sticking to replacement schedules, using approved eye drops or artificial tears, and never wearing contacts longer than recommended.
Palermo Eye Care offers different types of contact lenses—including daily disposables, toric contact lenses, and specialty options like MiSight® for kids. But we also go the extra mile to make sure you’re not just wearing them—but wearing them right.
How to Know If Your Contacts Are Causing Problems
Redness, dryness, blurry vision, and light sensitivity aren't just annoyances—they're signals that something’s not right. Contact lenses should feel comfortable. If they don’t, it may be time to update your glasses prescription, switch lens types, or revisit your care routine with an expert.
At Palermo Eye Care in Arlington Heights, our contact lens exams go beyond a simple refit. We take the time to assess your current lens health, your tear film, your corneal shape, and your unique lifestyle. Whether you need help managing seasonal dry eye, are interested in trying extended wear contacts, or want to know if your teen is ready for lenses, we offer truly personalized care.
Here’s what you can expect during your visit:
- A complete lens fit evaluation
- Updates to your contact lens prescription
- Tips on cleaning, handling, and storage
- Guidance on lens brands that best match your vision needs
We carry trusted names like ACUVUE®, DAILIES®, and PRECISION1®, including multifocal lenses and advanced designs that improve oxygen flow and reduce dryness.
Contact Lens Safety Month: A Great Time to Start Fresh
This October, take a few minutes to check in on your lens habits. Have you replaced your case recently? Are you still following your optometrist’s original care instructions? It’s never too late to break a bad habit—and never too early to protect your sight.
Palermo Eye Care is here to help you get back on track. Whether you’re new to contacts or just haven’t had a proper exam in a while, our eye doctors will make sure your lenses are working for you—not against you.
Book a Contact Lens Check-Up in Arlington Heights
Take advantage of Contact Lens Safety Month and schedule your next exam with Palermo Eye Care. We’ll make sure your eyes stay clear, comfortable, and protected all year long.
Schedule a contact lens exam at Palermo Eye Care to get started—we’re here to keep your vision safe.k
