The Art of Wearing Contact Lenses

Contact lenses come in an astonishing variety today. Markets have colored contact lenses, bifocal contact lenses, and disposable contact lens, all of which provide a high level of comfort to the wearer. The user’s duty is to use them correctly.

Eye examination methods have been so perfected that your doctor will be able to give you the most accurate lens prescription and will also advise you to get either a disposable contact lens or extended wear contact lenses based on your eye health and eye characteristics.

Soft contact lenses are very fine and the user would get adjusted to it easily. As against this, contact lenses that are RGP are harder and so adjustment time may be lengthier. But even for that, there is a prescribed time necessary for the adjustment. If the user does not feel comfortable with the contact lens within that period he or she should consult back with the doctor.

During the adjustment period the wearer of the contact lenses should ensure that he is using it correctly. Certain types of contact lenses, for example, toric lens worn for astigmatism, can be inserted only in a particular way as they are a combination of different shapes. So are bifocal contact lenses also.

Then there is the difference between the contact lenses for the right eye and the left eye. For some, the difference may be minimal and may not be obvious. Even for them it is mandatory that they do not mix up the contact lens of one eye with the other. Some contact lens models have the L or R marked on the lens to ensure that the wearer do not confuse between the right side and left side. Toric lens, for example, has got the markings. When the direction is not marked, the user has to carefully judge and insert.

As important as the insertion angle and position of the contact lenses are the hygiene and cleanliness of the whole process. Both the lens and your hands should be cleaned perfectly before inserting the contact lens. As far as contact lenses are concerned, even the presence of the smallest dust particle can cloud the vision or create a situation conducive to the breeding of bacteria or building up of protein.

Further, the user should always differentiate between daily wear contact lenses, disposable contact lenses, extended wear contact lenses etc. And it is safer never to fall asleep with contact lenses within the eye. If it accidentally happens, eyes should be given time to become moisturized before the contact lenses are removed, since closed eyes tend to be dry.

Sometimes soft contact lenses may turn inside out accidentally. So, before inserting, the lens should be carefully checked for any tiny lip or ridge, which could be an indication that it has flipped. Such a lip or ridge would be more visible in the case of RGP contact lenses. And it is always safer to have a regular pair of eye glasses handy to check the contact lenses properly.

If properly worn and properly cleaned, a pair of contact lenses is unlikely to give any problem. On the other hand, considering the delicate nature of the eye, even if there is the slightest discomfort with a contact lens, a doctor should be immediately consulted.