If you've just had your contact lenses fitted for the first time, you may have concerns about how to use and care for them. It might not be as straightforward as putting on a pair of glasses. It may also take some time to adjust to them.
Here's what you should know if you're new to contact lenses.
1. Learn about the various types of contact lenses
It's critical to understand the type of contacts your eye doctor has prescribed for you. Soft lenses are the most usually recommended since they are more flexible and comfortable.
Gas-permeable (GP) lenses are another name for hard lenses. They are more stiff and may sharpen your eyesight more effectively than soft lenses. If you have astigmatism or allergies, an optometrist or ophthalmologist may recommend hard lenses.
Soft contacts are available in a variety of styles, including:
- Daily disposable (you throw them out every day)
- Disposable, long-wearing (replaced every 1, 2, or 4 weeks)
- The toric (when your eye is more oval than round)
- Multifocal lenses (corrects your vision for both farsightedness and nearsightedness)
Hard contacts have a longer lifespan, lasting up to several months. To avoid infection, use a dry case without contact solution if you intend to store them for an extended period of time.
2. Learn how to put on contact lenses
For first-time contact wearers, this is probably the most challenging and awkward step. How do you put on your contact lenses?
First and foremost, wash your hands. Check that you're putting the lens in correctly by placing the contact on your fingertip. The contact lens should resemble a small cup when held up to the light. Pull your top eyelid up and your lower eyelid down with one hand to prevent blinking. Bring the lens up to your eye. Look up so you're not staring down at the contact lens. Then, insert the lens into your eye. Close your eyes and let go of your eyelids to allow the touch to settle. Repeat with the other eye.
3. Learn how to take off your contact lenses
Take your lenses out on a regular basis, depending on whether they are daily or long-wearing. Firstly, your hands should be washed with soap. Then, hold your upper eyelid open with the middle finger of your non-dominant hand and hold your lower eyelid open with your dominant hand's middle finger. Remove the lens by pinching it with your index and thumb. You can also try moving the lens lower and squeezing it out. Repeat with the other eye.
4. Maintain cleaning your contact lenses
When it comes to lens cleaning, don't cut corners. Your doctor will offer you advice relevant to the lens care routine that has been prescribed for you. For example, if you are instructed to use a multipurpose solution, you should rub and clean your lenses before placing them in new solution. Don't merely add to the already-existing solution.
5. Stay hydrate
Whether you are contact lens wearers or not, it is critical to keep hydrated by drinking enough of water. Furthermore, depending on your lifestyle and surroundings, you may want to boost your fluid intake with eye rewetting drops. People who spend a lot of time on the computer, or who are exposed to dry air, heating, or air conditioning, for example, if you use contact lens, the most important basic rule is to make sure that the eye drop you use is suitable with your lenses. Consult your doctor to determine which drops are best for you.
To purchase contact lenses, you can order online through shop.malayaoptical.com or if you just nearby Petaling Jaya area you can drop by to our shop at Malaya Optical Optometrist.