Unfortunately, many contact lens wearers follow the "if it isn’t’ broken, don’t fix it," regimen of care, eventually causing themselves problems. According to Frank Weinstock, M.D., it’s up to you, the fitter, to prevent this situation. Here’s what he recommends:

• Teach patients that comfort doesn’t equal safety.
Even if they’re comfortable in their lenses, they need regular checkups to check for asymptomatic problems.
• Explain care regimens.
Explain rinsing, soaking and disinfection in detail so that patients understand what’s required.
• Tell patients that red eyes, photophobia and blurred vision aren’t normal.
Patients who develop any of these symptoms should stop wearing their lenses and contact your office for advice.