Contact Lenses: 9 Things to Know Before Making the Switch

Contact lenses offer a convenient way to correct your vision and can be a great addition to your everyday eyewear options. They provide flexibility for different activities and lifestyles, giving you another way to enjoy clear, comfortable vision.

If you're considering contact lenses for the first time or returning to them after a break, you may have questions about comfort, safety, and daily care. Here are nine things to know before getting started.

Tips to Get Started with Contact Lenses

1. Schedule a Contact Lens Exam and Fitting in Midvale, UT

Contact lenses sit directly on your eyes, so they require a separate fitting in addition to your regular vision exam.

During a contact lens exam, your eye doctor will evaluate your prescription, measure your eyes, and check how the lenses fit and move when you blink. They'll also assess your eye health and tear film to help determine which lenses may be comfortable and suitable for you.

Regular follow-up exams are important, even if you've worn contacts for years. Your eye doctor can check for changes in your vision, lens fit, and signs of irritation or other complications.

2. There is a Difference Between Glasses and Contact Lens Prescriptions

Glasses and contact lens prescriptions aren't interchangeable because the lenses sit at different distances from your eyes.

A contact lens prescription includes additional information, such as the lens brand or material, base curve, and diameter. These details help ensure your contacts fit properly and provide the intended vision correction.

Even if your glasses prescription hasn't changed, you'll still need a valid contact lens prescription to order new lenses.

Contact Lens Safety: Everyday Habits That Matter

Know The Risks of Sleeping in Contact Lenses

Sleeping in contact lenses overnight increases the risk of serious eye infections, even if the lenses are approved for extended wear.

Some specialty and extended-wear contact lenses are designed for overnight use, but wear them overnight only if your eye doctor specifically prescribes them.

If you accidentally fall asleep in your contacts, don't force them out if they feel stuck. If needed, use contact lens-compatible lubricating drops, let the lenses move freely, and remove them gently. Contact your eye doctor promptly if you develop redness, pain, light sensitivity, or blurry vision.

Swimming and Showering with Contacts Can Harm Your Eyes

Keep contact lenses away from water, including tap water, swimming pools, lakes, and hot tubs.

Water can introduce harmful microorganisms to your lenses, including Acanthamoeba, which can cause a rare but serious eye infection.

Remove your contacts before swimming or showering. If you need vision correction while swimming, prescription swim goggles are a safer option.

If water gets into your eyes while wearing contacts, remove the lenses as soon as possible. Discard daily disposable lenses, or clean and disinfect reusable lenses as your eye doctor instructs.

Choose Eye Drops That Are Safe for Contact Lenses

Some eye drops are safe to use with contacts, but others require you to remove your lenses first.

Rewetting drops specifically labeled for contact lens use can help relieve occasional dryness. However, certain allergy medications, redness-relief drops, and prescription eye drops may not be suitable for use while contacts are in your eyes.

Always check the product instructions or ask your eye doctor before using drops with contact lenses. If you experience frequent dryness, your lenses or wearing schedule may need to be reassessed, so it is worth bringing up at your next visit.