Thinking About Contact Lenses? 4 Crucial Questions to Ask BEFORE You Switch

Contact lenses are becoming an increasingly popular solution for many people these days. The convenience and ease of comfort obtain through its usage is much sought after by those looking to correct vision issues or for aesthetic appeal. Here are 4 essential aspects to know before opting for contact lenses.

Essential Things #1: Eye Consultation

When switching to contact lenses, the consultation and prescription process is crucial. This ensures both comfort and eye health before you start using lenses. The process usually begins with a comprehensive eye examination by an eye care professional. Examinations can be more detailed than a typical eye exam for glasses. This examination will assess your overall eye health, measuring your vision and determining the appropriate type and power of contact lenses that fits your needs. Accurate measurements of your eyes and its structure will be taken. This is done to make sure you obtain contact lenses that fit you perfectly. An ill-fitting lens may cause you discomfort, blurry vision or even damage to your eyes. Therefore, it is crucial for you to obtain proper details via consultation.

During the consultation, often times the eye care professional will discuss your lifestyle, daily activities, and other specific preferences you may have. You will be able to find out which lens suits your needs and preferences. Some types include soft lenses, disposable lenses or extended wear lenses. You can then decide which is your preferred type of contact lens based on the details provided during the consultation session. You can decide based on factors such as comfort, vision requirements and how often you plan to wear them.

Additionally, the eye care professional will teach you how to properly insert, remove and care for your lenses. You will be educated on proper hygiene and handling techniques to prevent infections and other complications. You will also be informed about the recommended wearing schedule and replacement frequency which are key in maintaining eye health. Additionally, you can schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your adaptation to the lenses and make necessary adjustments. These consultations ensure that your lenses fit well, provide clear vision and do not harm your eyes. By scheduling a thorough consultation and accurate prescription, you can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses with confidence and comfort.

Essential Things #2: Hygiene Considerations

When you intend to switch to contact lenses, it is important to maintain hygiene to ensure eye health and comfort. You must prioritise washing and thoroughly drying your hands before handling your lenses. This simple step helps prevent transferring dirt, oils and harmful bacteria to your eyes; thus, reducing the risk of infections. You should only use the recommended cleaning and storage solutions provided by your eye care professional. Avoid using tap water as it contains microorganisms that are harmful to your eyes. Each time you remove your lenses, clean them with fresh solution and never reuse the old solution. Additionally, the lens case itself can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. You should make it a habit to clean the case with the recommended solution and wipe it dry with a clean tissue.

You should make it a point to follow the prescribed wearing schedule. Be mindful of the environment such as air-conditioned rooms, smoky areas or windy conditions which can dry out your lenses. This may cause you some discomfort, especially during prolonged wear. In such cases, using recommended drops can help maintain moisture levels in your eyes. Furthermore, you must not sleep with lenses unless they are specifically designed for extended wear as this significantly increases the risk of eye infections.

Regularly inspect your lenses for any signs of damage or buildup that could irritate your eyes. If you experience pain or blurred vision, cease using lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional. It’s also essential to give your eyes a break by wearing glasses periodically which allows them to rest. By diligently following these hygiene practices, you can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses while ensuring your eyes remain healthy and comfortable.

Essential Things #3: Type of Lenses

When you are looking to switch to contact lenses, it’s essential to understand the different types available to find the best fit for your lifestyle and vision needs. The right lenses for you will provide sufficient oxygen to the eyes. This will help reduce the risk of complications such as dry eyes, irritation, and infections. High-quality materials and proper fitting ensure that lenses sit comfortably on your eyes, maintaining moisture and minimising discomfort.

Furthermore, the cost and maintenance of contact lenses vary significantly depending on the type you choose. Daily disposable lenses tend to be more expensive over time due to their single-use nature. These type of lenses require minimal maintenance, making them convenient and reducing the risk of infections. Monthly or bi-weekly lenses are typically cheaper per pair but you need to be diligent in cleaning and storing them. Investing in quality lens cleaning solutions and storage cases is essential to prevent complications. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of the lenses but also ensures that your eyes remain healthy and comfortable throughout their use.

Additionally, you can get contact lenses that are meant to correct a certain vision issue. For instance toric lenses are designed to address astigmatism. This helps in correcting the uneven curvature of the cornea. Apart from that, you can opt for colour contact lenses which come in both prescription and non-prescription form. This can be your choice when it comes to changing the colour of your eyes for cosmetic purposes. You should schedule a proper fitting and consultation with an eye care professional to determine the most suitable type of contact lens for your eyes and lifestyle. This helps you to achieve the best vision correction and maintain eye health and comfort.

Essential Things #4: Lifestyle and Habits

Switching to contact lenses can significantly impact your lifestyle. This change offers a blend of convenience, aesthetics and practicality. Unlike glasses, contact lenses can provide you a more natural field of vision without the obstructions of frames or the inconvenience of fogging up. This can enhance daily activities such as sports and social interactions. This allows for greater freedom and confidence. You will also eliminate the discomfort of frames pressing against your nose or ears, making physical activities more enjoyable.

Contact lenses offer unobstructed vision and provide a wider field of view by eliminating the peripheral obstructions that glasses can cause. Since lens conform to the curvature of your eye, it offers a more natural viewing experience. This allows you to see clearly without any distortions or reflections that can occur with glasses. This will be beneficial for you during activities that require precise vision such as driving, sports or reading. With contact lenses, you can enjoy a more immersive and natural visual experience, enhancing your overall quality of life

Moreover, you may find that the convenience and improved aesthetics of contact lenses contribute positively to their self-esteem and overall lifestyle despite the need for diligence,. Transitioning to lenses also means being mindful of eye health signs and avoiding wearing lenses for too long to prevent strain. With these considerations, the shift to contact lenses can lead to a more dynamic, active, and visually comfortable lifestyle, making everyday tasks and special occasions alike more enjoyable.

We are a company of optometrists & opticians. We focus on providing our customers with their preferred optical products to improve visual acuity and enhance their quality of life. At PopularLens, you will find niche and exclusive brands.