The journey to discovering the ideal contacts for your unique eyes starts with understanding the basics. It's crucial to realize that our eyes are just as unique as our fingerprints, and what works for one person might not work for another.
The right contact lenses can make a world of difference to your visual comfort and overall eye health. They can significantly enhance your quality of life by providing clear, comfortable vision throughout the day. On the other hand, the wrong ones can cause discomfort, dryness, blurred vision, and even serious eye infections.
The right contact lenses should fit your eyes perfectly. They should not feel uncomfortable or move around too much when you blink. They should also match your lifestyle and vision needs accurately.
There's a diverse range of contact lenses available today, each designed to cater to different vision needs. Let's take a closer look at some of the most common types.
Firstly, we have soft contact lenses, which are made from flexible plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. They are typically very comfortable to wear and come in various forms, including daily disposables, extended wear, and toric lenses for astigmatism.
Secondly, there are rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses. These are more durable and resistant to deposit buildup, and tend to offer clearer, crisper vision than soft lenses. They are especially beneficial for people with keratoconus or other corneal irregularities.
Lastly, there are specialty lenses like multifocal or bifocal lenses for presbyopia, scleral lenses for severe eye conditions, and colored or cosmetic lenses to change your eye color. It's important to note that the best type of contact lens for you depends on your specific vision needs, lifestyle, and comfort preferences.
When it comes to finding the perfect contact lenses, an optometrist plays a critical role. They are the professionals who will examine your eyes, determine your vision needs, and recommend the most suitable type of contact lenses. They will also teach you how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses properly.
During an eye exam, your optometrist will check your vision and assess the health of your eyes. They will measure your eye surface to ensure a proper lens fit and ask about your lifestyle and personal preferences. Based on this, they will recommend the ideal type, brand, and wearing schedule of contact lenses for you.
Your interaction with your optometrist doesn't end when you receive your contact lenses. Regular follow-up visits are essential to ensure your contacts are still fitting correctly and not causing any discomfort or eye health issues. Ensure you maintain open communication with your optometrist throughout your journey of finding the perfect contact lenses.
Once you've found the perfect contact lenses, it's crucial to take care of them properly. This not only ensures your lenses last longer but also safeguards your eye health.
First, always wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses. This prevents any dirt or germs from getting onto your lenses and into your eyes. Next, clean, rinse, and disinfect your lenses as recommended by your optometrist. Always use fresh contact lens solution and never reuse or top off old solution.
Additionally, make sure to replace your lenses as directed. Over-wearing your lenses can lead to discomfort and eye infections. And don't forget to replace your contact lens case every three months, as it can harbor bacteria over time.
Lastly, always remove your contacts before swimming, showering, or sleeping unless your optometrist has given you the green light. These activities can expose your lenses to harmful bacteria and increase the risk of eye infections.
Finding the perfect contact lenses is a journey that involves understanding your unique vision needs, getting a comprehensive eye exam, and following proper care and maintenance practices. It's a personal and rewarding journey that can significantly enhance your vision, comfort, and confidence.
Begin your journey towards clear and healthy vision by scheduling a contact lens exam at Advanced Vision Family Eye Care in our Bellingham, Washington office. Will help you find the perfect contact lenses for your unique needs. Please call (360) 526-0075 to book an appointment.