Choosing to wear prescription contacts is a big step in taking control of one's vision. Contacts provide an excellent opportunity to see clearly and to see more of the world. This makes things like driving a little bit easier since it is possible to see objects in a person's peripheral vision without needing to turn the head as is common with glasses. Anyone who is ready to make this switch should visit our office for a contacts eye exam and then discuss the various types of contacts that are available.
Types of prescription contact lenses
Patients have several options to choose from and should select one that is going to feel most comfortable and convenient.
Daily wear soft contact lenses
These contacts can be worn for set periods of time, anything from a day or two to a month. The material will determine how long they should be worn. If the contacts are only supposed to be worn for one day, they should be replaced the following morning. However, contacts that last for several days to a month will need to be cleaned daily. It is important to follow the directions for cleaning and soaking them. It is also necessary to replace them as directed.
Extended wear contact lenses
These soft contacts can be worn while a person is sleeping. They are designed to allow for improved oxygen flow which makes it possible to keep them in for longer. We still recommend cleaning them daily and the giving eyes a break. However, for patients who have a very busy lifestyle or work odd hours, these extended wear prescription contacts can be incredibly convenient.
Bifocal or multifocal contact lenses
Some people need assistance with more than one aspect of their vision. This is especially true as people age, and it becomes common to have difficulty seeing far away and up close. In this case, it is necessary to wear contacts that allow for adjusting depending on where a person is looking. Bifocal or multifocal contact lenses do this.
Monovision contact lenses
Another way we can address a patient's need to have one prescription for seeing far away and another for up close is to provide them with monovision contacts. In this case, one eye is used to see up close while the other eye is used to see far away. It may sound strange, but the brain can adjust. In time, vision becomes smooth and seamless.
Hard contact lenses
The first type of contacts were hard lenses. Most people do not choose this type of contact lens because disposables are more comfortable and easier to use. However, with more than 70 years of history, they are reliable, durable and still the choice of patients looking for something that has stood the test of time.
Colored contact lenses
Prescription contacts can also be used to change the appearance of the eye, enhancing a shade or changing it completely. Some patients choose these even if they have clear vision.
Choosing the right prescription contacts
After conducting an examination, the eye doctor will ask some basic questions to learn about the patient's lifestyle and what he or she is looking for out of the contacts. This allows the doctor to make a recommendation for what is going to be the easiest solution for the patient to wear.
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Call (618) 374-0513 today to reach Carmi Eye Care.
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