7 Things You Need To Know Before Wearing Contact Lenses Everyday

So you hate your glasses and want to wear contact lenses everyday. Is it safe? What could possibly go wrong? In this post I will go through some of the issues to consider.

1. Cost to consider

Number one on the list, is the cost. Most of the time reusable lenses (monthly/fortnightly) are much more cost effective than daily wear lenses. However, don't forget to factor in the cost of cases and cleaning solution, which can range from an additional $20 -$50 depending on the solution every three months. Contact lens cases cannot be used indefinitely due to the potential for debris and bacteria build up, so this also needs to be replaced. And also consider the time spent every night cleaning the lenses taking care of them. If you get lazy, the risk of infection increases significantly.

2. Your eye still needs to breathe

Contact lenses are a physical barrier that sits on your eye. Of course as technology improves different lenses will have different breathability and water retention. However it is still a barrier. The maximum we recommended for reusable wear contact lenses is six days, with one day rest, per week. This will allow the eye to breathe again and naturally heal if there is any damage done by the contact lenses. What we don't want is conditions like neovascularization or corneal ulcers. These can be easily avoided by letting the eye rest. Good practice will allow you to successfully wear contact lenses for many years to come.

3. Listen to your eye

Redness? Itchy? Uncomfortable? Be aware of the potential signs that you are wearing contact lenses too much. Contact lenses should feel comfortable and provide optimal vision. In the even it doesn't feel quite right, its likely the lens is dirty and requires cleaning. Additionally, look out for tears and rips in the lenses. If this is the case, there is no choice but to throw it out and get a new one. Sometimes drops can be used to help alleviate the symptoms, but always check with your optometrist before proceeding. This will ensure you get the best patient care possible.

4. You need a backup

Throwing out your glasses seems like a good idea, but what happens if you forget to order and down to your last pair? The correct way to think about contact lenses is as a supplement to your glasses. It is always better to have the option between the two, than to swing one way of the other. Active lifestyle? Choose contacts. Office work and screen time? Choose glasses. Optical products are optical solutions, tailored for each activity. Having a one product solution for all activities won't always yield the best results.

5. Know the limits of the contact lenses

Have an idea of your lifestyle and what you want the contact lenses for. Love dancing? Rock climbing? Got a pair of amazing non script sunglasses? Then contact lenses will work. Avid fan of watersports? Maybe not as the bacteria in the water can cause infection. If you are an avid swimmer, why put yourself with unnecessary risk? Prescription goggles would be a potential Not all lenses are designed the same. Different material, different shape, different breathability, all makes contact lenses a hard choice. Good thing your optometrist will know which will suit you best.

6. Your motivation

Extended wear contact lenses require a dedication to hygiene and upkeep. Cleaning them every night requires diligence and discipline. If this is you, then yes you will enjoy the benefits of extended wear contacts, but if not, daily wear is a far better option.

7. If in doubt check with your optometrist

Not sure if the contact lens feels right? Or the vision isn't optimal? Get yourself an appointment with an optometrist. If you do decide to wear contact lenses more often, it is very important to do regular checks with your optometrist. Minimally, every 12 months. As you will be placing a physical barrier on the lenses, it is important to always check the eye health - sooner if there are any signs of discomfort. Optometrists are well equipped to solve these issues to ensure success with contact lenses long term.

Conclusion

Everyone is different when it comes to contact lenses. Its important to identify what you want them for and see if it fits your lifestyle. In some circumstances, contacts will be ideal, but glasses will also be ideal in other. Ultimately, it is always good to have a choice between the two and stay flexible. Regardless though, for any contact lens wearer it is paramount to have regular checks with your optometrist to ensure your eye health is not compromised.