7
Nov

Changing from glasses to contact lenses can be a freeing experience: you can enjoy your favorite activities without the inconvenience of wearing glasses. If you’ve recently been fitted with contacts, it’s important to understand that there is a learning curve. Most people need a little bit of time to get used to wearing contact lenses. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

What Type of Contacts Are You Wearing?

The type of contact lens matters because it determines how long you can wear the lenses and how they need to be cleaned. Soft contact lenses come in several types, including:

• Daily disposable – you wear them 1 day and then throw them away
• Extended-wear disposable – you wear the same contacts for 1 – 4 weeks, depending on the type of lens
• Toric lenses for patients with astigmatism – can usually be worn for 2 – 4 weeks
• Hard contact lenses – with proper care and cleaning, these contacts can be used for several months

Contact Lens Cleaning and Maintenance

It is important that you only use cleaning solutions designed for contact lenses. Any other cleaning products could damage the lenses or harm your eyes. Never use tap water, rewetting eye drops, or saliva on your contact lenses because they could cause an infection in your eye.

Two types of contact lens cleaners can be used, depending on the type of lenses you are wearing:

• Multipurpose Cleaning Solution: This is the most common type of cleaner. Not only does the solution disinfect and clean the lenses, but you can keep the lenses in the solution overnight. Multipurpose cleaners can be used for both soft and hard contact lenses.
• Solutions with Hydrogen Peroxide: A peroxide-based solution is an option for patients with sensitivities or allergies. With these solutions, you soak the lens in the solution, and the case has a built-in neutralizing disc that turns the cleaning solution into saline.

One important thing that everyone should know about contact lenses: you shouldn’t swim or shower while wearing your contact lenses. It’s better to remove the contacts before these activities.

Do You Need a Contact Lens Fitting?

Not only is it important to determine the right prescription for your contact lenses, but it’s also necessary to choose the ideal type of lenses for your unique needs. If you want to start wearing contact lenses or need new ones, we invite you to schedule an examination at our office.

We offer full-service eyecare solutions, including check-ups, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. If you have questions or need assistance with your eye health, then contact our team at Temecula Creek Optometry at your convenience: (951) 302 -1331.