Contact lenses offer a less cumbersome alternative to eyeglasses for vision correction for many people. However, you must get a contact lens exam to ensure your new lenses fit comfortably and provide visual clarity. Our optometrist at EyeCare Focus & Specialties in Springfield, OR, is here to tell you about contacts and what to expect during a contact lens exam and fitting.
What Contacts Can Treat
The primary use for contacts is to correct refractive vision errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. However, your eye doctor near you can also prescribe specialty contacts to manage specific eye diseases or injuries. For example, chronic dry eye sufferers can use scleral contacts to help retain moisture in their eyes.
Understanding Contact Lens Exams
Your optometrist must determine the level of vision correction you require before prescribing contact lenses. They will begin by evaluating your eyes similarly to how they would for a general eye exam. Your optometrist will perform a vision test, eye health evaluation, and eye pressure test to determine your visual needs and if you have underlying conditions that can affect contact lens use. Afterward, your optometrist will measure your cornea to determine the lens that will fit the best. They may also check your tear production to see if dry eye is a concern while wearing contacts.
The Fitting Process
Once your optometrist determines you can wear contact lenses, they will have you undergo the fitting process to ensure your lenses fit perfectly. They will provide a set of trial lenses and show you how to put them in and take them out correctly. Your optometrist checks the fit and movement of the lenses on your eyes to ensure they are not too loose or tight. They will also have you read a vision chart to see how well the new contacts correct your vision.
Available Contact Lens Options
The most common contact lens option is soft lenses. You can choose either disposable or extended-wear contacts based on your personal preferences. Disposable lenses are worn daily and thrown away at the end of the day, while extended-wear contacts can last a few weeks to a month.
Specialty contacts are also available. Rigid gas permeable lenses are more durable than soft lenses and are especially helpful for people with astigmatism or irregular corneas. You can also get scleral lenses to help your eyes breathe more and prevent dry eyes from worsening. Talk with your optometrist to determine which contacts best suit your visual needs and lifestyle.
Visit Your Eye Doctor Near You to Regain Visual Clarity With Contact Lenses
Getting the perfect contact lenses for your visual needs can help you see clearly and comfortably again, so contact EyeCare Focus & Specialties in Springfield, OR, to schedule a contact lens exam today. Our optometrist will help you select the best contacts for your needs and lifestyle, so call us and schedule an appointment at (541) 726-5055 to restore your visual clarity.
