Contact lenses are prescription medical devices that must be obtained through a licensed eye doctor. There are many types of contact lens designs to address different vision needs and preferences. Before your visit to University Eye Associates in Charlotte or Davidson, NC, take a look at these frequently asked questions about contact lenses:
What are the different types of contact lenses?
Contact lenses differ in material, replacement schedules, wear duration, and design, particularly for specialized lenses. Many people consider disposable and extended-wear contacts to be the most convenient, these are also called soft contact lenses. There are also hard contact lenses that are extended wear and can help treat underlying medical conditions. Not only are there different modalities to contact lenses, but there are different types of lenses that can help improve day to day activities: distance only, distance and reading together, as well as contact lenses to help dry eye and cornea diseases.
What are the steps to obtaining contact lenses?
The first step in acquiring contact lenses is scheduling an eye exam with an optometrist near you. The comprehensive eye exam includes a glasses prescription, but since contact lenses are medical devices that are placed inside the eye, a contact lens fitting and evaluation is separate. If you are new to contact lenses, the contact lens exam does include an insertion and removal class to ensure you feel comfortable putting your contact lenses in and removing them from your eye before you take the lenses home. If your optometrist thinks you are a candidate for contact lenses, the exam will include detailed measurements of the shape of your eyes to ensure the proper contact lens is fitted specifically for you. After choosing a lens type, you will try these lenses for several days to assess their comfort and clarity. After completing the contact lens fitting, you will learn how to handle, use, and care for your lenses before going home with a trial pair. If they work well for one or two weeks, your contact lens prescription will be finalized so you can order for the next several months to a full year.
Are disposable contact lenses worth the extra cost?
Disposable contact lenses are often worth the extra cost, as many eye doctors recommend them for their convenience, improvement for dry eye symptoms, and lower risk of infection. Daily disposable lenses, in particular, eliminate the need for cleaning or disinfecting, making them a hassle-free option. They are also helpful in minimizing the cost of contact lens solutions and cases. If you do not wear your contact lenses every day or take a break one day or two throughout the week, the daily lenses will last longer than your extended wear.
Is it okay to sleep while wearing contact lenses?
You should never wear contact lenses while sleeping, unless they are FDA approved. Sleeping in contact lenses increases the risk of corneal infections. Only AirOptix Night & Day soft contact lenses and specialized Ortho-K lenses, designed to reshape the cornea, should be worn overnight. Even the soft Night & Day lenses can not be worn every night, they must be replaced and worn as the FDA and your eye doctor recommends.
Should you shower or swim in your contact lenses?
You should never wear contact lenses while swimming, showering, or in a hot tub. These situations significantly increase the risk of infection and possibly permanent vision loss. There are several microorganisms, bacteria, and debris in the water that can cause serious ocular problems. We never want to wear our contact lenses in these conditions to ensure our eyes stay healthy and visually seeing well.
Is there a minimum age for wearing contact lenses?
There is no set minimum age for wearing contact lenses. Children and teens can wear them as long as they show the maturity and responsibility needed to properly care for their lenses.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today!
If you are considering contact lenses for hyperopia, astigmatism or myopia, our team at University Eye Associates in Charlotte or Davidson, NC, can help. To learn more about our selection and to schedule an appointment, contact our office today. When you need an optometrist near you, we are happy to assist!