Know the risks of decorative contact lenses Published Oct. 23, 2018 By Dr. Daniel E. Reiser, OD, FAAO Optometrist, Hanscom Air Force Base HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Halloween is all about scary: scary costumes, scary decorations, scary pumpkins; but do not let it include a scary eye infection. Each Halloween people change their natural eye color into something scary. Perfect for Halloween, right? It can be, if you follow some basic tips. The first thing to know is that all contact lenses, even the scary ones, are not cosmetics or over-the-counter merchandise; they are medical devices regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Stores, including street vendors, salons, Halloween stores and other places, selling these contact lenses as cosmetics or selling them over-the-counter are breaking the law. Since one size does not fit all, an optometrist or ophthalmologist must properly fit these lenses and provide proper follow-up care to avoid the potential for serious eye damage. You can safely buy the lenses from any seller that requires a prescription before allowing you to purchase them, whether online or in person. The risks of not getting a proper fit and follow-up can include a scratched cornea, eye infection/pink eye, decreased vision and possibly blindness. Failure to properly clean the lenses, as well as maintain and follow a wearing schedule, can lead to these problems. How do you know if you are having a problem? You may experience any of the following symptoms: eye redness, pain in the eye that does not go away after a short while, discharge from the eye or decreased vision. If you notice any of these, see your optometrist or ophthalmologist. It is important to know that a contact lens-related eye infection could lead to permanent vision loss, sometimes in less than 24 hours. Here are some “Do’s” to keep your eyes healthy and to prevent any eye problems: 1. Do get an eye exam (even if you don’t need glasses) 2. Do get a prescription 3. Do follow the recommended wear and care schedule 4. Do seek medical attention immediately and remove your contact lens with first symptoms Do not let a few days of having the perfect costume outweigh the risk of vision loss. Additional information can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/contactlenses/decorative-contacts.html. Please call the Edwards Optometry clinic at 277-5091 for any additional questions.