There are a few alternatives to contact lens solution. While it is always necessary to store contacts in the prescribed lens solution, there might arise a few situations where you would want to look at other available alternatives.
While the best contact solutions are either multi-purpose solutions are contact lens solutions themselves, there are a few other options available in the market if the situation demands.
Alternatives to Contact Lens Solution: There are various alternatives available in the market and some solutions may be better than the other. Let us look at the options available.
Saline Solution: Do not mistake saline solution for the home-made one(where you dissolve table salt or salt tablets into water).
- Saline solution would mean the commercial one that often is prescribed by practitioners. The commercial saline solution is a salt water solution which is either available in pressurised cans or bottles.
- In many ways it is similar to a contact lens solution. Saline solution is a disinfectant and does not harm your contacts. The commercial saline solutions are just a mix of sodium and water. But, the solution under pressure which is usually sterilised, cleanses the lens effectively.
- Not recommended for long-term storage and frequent usage though. It is essential that the lens are properly rinsed in the appropriate lens solution as soon as possible.
Distilled Water: Never ever can contact lens be stored in tap water.
- Tap water is a carrier of a threatening virus which can cause some severe eye infections and might also lead to blindness. In some extreme cases corneal transplants are also a requirement.
- Distilled water by no means is germ-free but is safer when compared to plain tap water. But again, not recommended for long term use.
Salt Water: Only in an emergency, you need to use salt water. Since water is the carrier of a potential virus that can have harmful affect on your eyes, adding a little table salt can help get rid of many bacteria.
But again, this is not recommended except in an emergency and can only be used for a short duration. Rinse your lens well with the appropriate solution as soon as possible.
Alternatives to contact lens solution are only to be used in an emergency and if the situation demands. Contact lens solutions and multi-purpose solutions are still the best for long-term storage.
