If you’re searching for a better way to correct your vision or simply want a way to change your look, then contact lenses may be just what you need. Before making the switch to contact lenses, it is important that you not only understand the process needed to obtain the lenses, but that you also know who to clean and care for the lenses properly. The information in this article can provide you with some of the basic information that you will need to become a contact lens wearer.
Eye Exam and Contact Lens Fitting
Regardless of your reasoning behind getting contact lenses, the first step to obtaining a pair is to schedule an exam and contact lens fitting with a licensed eye care practitioner. The eye exam will provide the practitioner with a clear understanding of your vision while the lens fitting will determine which lens will fit your comfortably and provide you with the best level of vision correction.
Various Types of Lenses
Today there are a wide variety of lens types available to meet the varying needs of contact lens wearers. The type of lenses that you are prescribed will be dependent upon what type of vision correction you need (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia) and whether or not you want to change or enhance the color of your eyes with colored lenses. Those two factors will determine the shape or design of the lenses, what material they are made of and how often they need to be replaced.
Understanding Your Prescription
The prescription that you receive from your eye care practitioner is very specific. It describes in detail which contact lenses will provide you with the most comfortable fit and the crispest, clearest vision. The specifications include the power, base curve, diameter, lens material and manufacturer of the prescribed lenses. Your prescription will only allow you to purchase lens that meet those specifications. If your lens needs change, your eye care practitioner will need to issue you a new prescription.
Familiarizing Yourself with Proper Lens Care
Before you begin wearing contact lenses, it is important that you understand what steps will be needed to keep your lens clean. When you receive your new lenses, your eye care practitioner will inform you of the recommending cleaning method for your lenses and will most likely provide you with a starter kit of cleaning and storing supplies. Maintaining the cleanliness of your lenses is a necessary step in safeguarding your eye health.
If you feel that contact lenses are the right choice for your vision correction, schedule an appointment with your eye care practitioner for an eye exam and contact lens fitting.