Contact Lenses: The Ultimate Guide For First-Time Users
If you're new to contact lenses, you may feel overwhelmed by all the information out there. There are so many things to learn and remember–from inserting them correctly to taking care of them properly.
But don't worry; this comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know about contact lenses, so you can feel confident and comfortable wearing them.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Eye Doctor.
Before you can start wearing contact lenses, you need to get a prescription from your eye doctor. They can conduct a thorough eye exam to determine the correct contact lens prescription for you.
During the eye exam, your doctor may discuss the different types of contact lenses available. They may consider your lifestyle, vision needs, and budget when making their recommendation.
For instance, if you have astigmatism, they may recommend toric contact lenses. These lenses are designed to correct this common refractive error. Also, say you play contact sports–in this case, your doctor may suggest lenses made from a durable material to withstand the rigors of your activity.
You should also ask your doctor about the wearing schedule for your contact lenses. Some contact lenses can be worn for several weeks, while others need to be replaced more frequently.
Daily disposable contact lenses are a good option for first-time wearers. They're easy to care for and don't require cleaning or disinfecting solutions.
Pro tip: If you're new to contact lenses, you may need to schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor. They can check whether the contact lenses still fit properly during these appointments. If your lenses are uncomfortable or you have any problems with them, let your eye doctor know. Your doctor can make the necessary adjustments to ensure that you're comfortable with your contact lenses.
Learn How to Insert and Remove Your Contact Lenses
Once you have your contact lenses, learn how to insert and remove them correctly. This process can be a little tricky at first, but with a bit of practice, you'll get the hang of it in no time.
A few things to keep in mind when inserting your contact lenses:
- Make sure your contact lenses are clean and free of trapped debris
- Wash your hands carefully with soap and water before handling your contact lenses
- Place the contact lens on your fingertip and gently place it on your eye.
Removing your contact lenses is a bit easier than inserting them. Gently pinch the contact lens with your thumb and index finger and pull it away from your eye. If the contact lens is stuck to your eye, do not pull on it. Instead, contact your doctor for assistance. Once you've removed the contact lens, place it in the contact lens case filled with a cleaning solution.
Reach out to an eye clinic like Northwest Ophthalmology to learn more about how to put in and remove contacts.