Contact lenses are a safe and convenient alternative to glasses for people with nearsightedness. However, wearing contact lenses can be challenging, especially for beginners. Here are 6 things you need to know before you start wearing contact lenses:
1. Cleanliness is key
Contact lenses come into direct contact with your eyes, so cleanliness is essential at every step. Start by washing your hands thoroughly and drying them completely before putting in or taking out your lenses. After you wear your lenses, be sure to clean and dry your lens case before storing your lenses. Also, don't forget to replace your lens case every 3 months to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
2. Check the orientation of your lenses before putting them in
Contact lenses are designed to fit snugly over your corneas to correct your vision. Before putting your lenses in, make sure they are the right way up by looking at the edges. The edges should curve inward into a circle, not outward. If you're not sure which side is up, hold the lens up to the light and look for the manufacturer's logo or other identifying mark.
3. Contact lenses have a shelf life
Contact lenses have a shelf life that starts from the day they are first opened. Monthly contact lenses should be discarded and replaced after 1 month, even if you don't wear them every day. Daily disposable contact lenses should not be worn for more than 8 hours at a time to prevent eye irritation.
4 Clean your lenses properly
You can't use tap water to clean your contact lenses! Tap water can contain harmful bacteria and other contaminants. Use only contact lens solution to clean and disinfect your lenses. Also, be sure to dry your hands and lens case before handling your lenses.
5. Don't forget to remove your contact lenses before getting an eye exam
Contact lenses can change the shape of your cornea, so it's important to remove them before getting an eye exam. This will allow your eye doctor to accurately measure your vision.
6. Your contact lens prescription may be different from your glasses prescription
If you're switching from glasses to contact lenses, your contact lens prescription may be slightly different from your glasses prescription. This is because contact lenses sit directly on your cornea, while glasses sit further away. To get the most comfortable fit, consult with an eye care professional to determine the correct contact lens prescription for your eyes.
Wearing contact lenses can be challenging for beginners, but it's definitely possible with the right knowledge and care. If you're a beginner, it's a good idea to consult with a BVAX Master, an eye care professional who specializes in contact lenses. They can help you find the right type of contact lenses for your needs and fit.
