Contact lenses for vision correction have revolutionized the world of optometry, offering an effective alternative to glasses. They have become a popular choice for people who lead active lifestyles or simply prefer the aesthetic appeal of not wearing glasses. As a first-time contact lens wearer, you might have a flurry of questions and concerns about using them.
As a first-time contact lens wearer, it's normal to experience a mix of excitement and nervousness. You might wonder about the comfort of wearing them, the process of putting them on and taking them off, and the maintenance they require.
During your initial fitting, your eye doctor will measure your eyes to determine the right size and type of lenses for you. You might feel a slight discomfort when you first wear your contact lenses, but this will quickly subside as your eyes adapt.
A crucial aspect of wearing contact lenses is maintaining good eye hygiene. You'll need to clean and store your lenses properly to keep them free from harmful bacteria and debris.
First-time contact lens wearers often have common concerns about using lenses.
• "Will contact lenses hurt my eyes?" Initially, you might feel a slight discomfort, but your eyes will soon adapt. If you experience persistent discomfort, consult your eye doctor.
• "Can contact lenses get lost behind my eyes?" No, it's impossible for contact lenses to get lost behind your eyes due to the structure of your eye.
• "Can I sleep with my contact lenses in?" Unless prescribed by your doctor, you should not sleep with your contact lenses in, as it increases the risk of eye infections.
Choosing the right contact lenses for vision correction is a crucial decision that should be made in consultation with your eye doctor. Here, we address some of the frequently asked questions about selecting the right lenses.
• "What type of contact lenses should I choose?" This question is best answered by your eye doctor, who will consider your vision correction needs, lifestyle, and comfort. Soft lenses are a popular choice due to their comfort and flexibility, while rigid gas-permeable lenses provide sharper vision and are more durable.
• "Can I wear contact lenses if I have astigmatism?" Yes, you can. Toric lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism. They have different powers in different meridians of the lens to correct the uneven curvature of the cornea.
• "Can I wear contact lenses if I need bifocals?" Yes, there are multifocal contact lenses designed for people with presbyopia, a condition that affects your ability to focus on near objects as you age.
Applying and removing contact lenses can seem intimidating to first-time contact lens wearers. With practice, it becomes a straightforward process.
• "How do I apply my contact lenses?" Start by washing your hands thoroughly. Then, take the lens out of its storage case and place it on the tip of your index finger. Pull down your lower eyelid with your middle finger and look upward. Gently place the lens on your eye and release your eyelid.
• "How do I remove my contact lenses?" Again, start by washing your hands. Look up and pull down your lower eyelid. Touch the lower edge of the lens with your index finger and slide it down to the lower white part of your eye. Gently squeeze the lens between your thumb and index finger to remove it.
Proper cleaning and maintenance of your contact lenses are essential to protect your eyes from infection and ensure the longevity of your lenses.
• "How should I clean my contact lenses?" Use a contact lens solution to clean your lenses. Place the lens in the palm of your hand, apply the solution, and gently rub the lens with your index finger. Rinse the lens thoroughly before placing it in the lens case filled with fresh solution.
• "Do I need to clean my contact lens case?" Yes, you should clean and air-dry your lens case every day. Replace it at least every three months to prevent bacterial growth.
Becoming a contact lens wearer is a journey that requires patience, practice, and proper care. It's normal to have questions and concerns. Remember, your eye doctor is your best resource for any queries related to your eye health. Embrace the freedom that contact lenses offer, and enjoy the clear, uninterrupted vision they provide.
If you have any questions or need further assistance on contact lenses, walk-in today at Luck Optical in our Fort Worth, Texas, office. We are here to help you on your journey to better vision.