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Contact lenses allow people to see with incredible clarity without the limitations of glasses. However, ongoing contact lens use can lead to minor complications like dry eye and eyelid inflammation to more serious ones, such as keratitis (infection) and corneal abrasion. That’s why regular contact lens check-ups are essential for maintaining optimal eye health and vision. These routine examinations play a vital role in ensuring your lenses are functioning effectively, fitting comfortably, and not posing any risks to your eye health and vision.
BENEFITS OF REGULAR CONTACT LENS EXAMS
Routine contact lens exams provide and are designed to:
1. Preserve Eye Health
Regular check-ups greatly reduce the risk of various eye complications through:
. Early Detection of Problems – Your eye doctor can identify early signs of potential disease processes, well before symptoms become noticeable. Early detection allows for timely intervention and prevention of more severe conditions, such as corneal neovascularization, corneal abrasion, hypoxia, and other problems that, left undiagnosed and untreated, can seriously damage
vision.
. Prevention of Infection – Even with diligent cleaning and care, contact lenses can harbor harmful bacteria and microorganisms. Regular check-ups help minimize the risk of eye infections like infectious keratitis, bacterial keratitis and fungal keratitis and other hazards.
. Detection of Systemic Issues – Believe it or not, your eyes can reveal other problems throughout the body. Regular contact lens exams can uncover signs
of systemic diseases that also affect eye health, such as diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune disorders.
2. Promote Clear, Comfortable Vision
Routine contact lens exams ensure that your contact lenses continue to provide you with total comfort. Your exam will include:
. Fit Assessment – Your eye doctor will evaluate the fit of your lenses to confirm they’re not causing any discomfort or damage to your eyes.
. Prescription Updates – Eyes and vision change over time, making regular exams the key to ensuring your prescription remains up-to-date. Updated vision correction helps prevent problems like eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, even accidents.
. Lens Material Evaluation – New technologies mean there are more contact lens types than ever before. From rigid gas permeable and soft lenses to hybrid, scleral and silicone hydrogel, there’s a contact lens for almost everyone. Your eye doctor can assess whether your current lens material is still suitable for your eyes or if a switch to a different type might provide
enhancements to your comfort and lifestyle.
HOW OFTEN DO I NEED A REGULAR CONTACT LENS EXAM?
Your eye doctor will take into account your age, health profile and other factors to customize your exam schedule. In general, the recommended frequency of contact lens exams depends on the following:
. Age – Teenagers and young adults, who often experience more rapid changes in their eyes, should have annual exams. As we move deeper into our 20s and 30s, exams every two years may be sufficient, assuming no complications arise. For people ages 40 and up, annual or twice-yearly exams are typically recommended due to the increased risk of age-related eye conditions.
. Eye Health – Individuals with a history of eye infections, corneal ulcers, or chronic dry eye, or conditions like diabetes, may require exams every six months or more. By keeping a close watch on eye health and any changes that may be developing, your eye doctor can take steps to halt problems before they become serious.
. Lens Type – The type of contact lenses you wear can influence exam frequency. Daily disposable lenses may require less frequent check-ups compared to extended wear or specialty lenses. It is particularly important to receive regular check-ups if you wear extended-wear lenses, which can leave you more prone to infection and other problems.
SIGNS YOU NEED A CONTACT LENS CHECK-UP IMMEDIATELY
See your eye doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
. Eye Pain or Discomfort – Serious, persistent or worsening eye pain or irritation could indicate ill-fitting lenses, which should not be ignored. These symptoms could also indicate corneal abrasion, or another problem requiring prompt attention.
. Signs of Infection – Symptoms may include swollen, itchy, or red eyelids; discoloration of the whites of the eyes (particularly if they appear pink); or milky or
yellowish discharge from the eyes.
. Vision Changes – Sudden blurry vision, double vision, halos, flashes of light, difficulty focusing or a curtain-like effect over part of your vision necessitate immediate
attention. If your eye doctor isn’t able to see you immediately, have someone take you to the ER.
. Persistent Dryness or Excessive Tearing – Persistent dryness or excessive tearing that doesn’t improve with artificial tears or your usual care routine means it’s time for an immediate check-up.
. Extreme Light Sensitivity – Sudden, severe sensitivity to light may indicate a serious eye condition demanding prompt evaluation.
. Foreign Objects in Eyes – If you get anything in your eyes such as debris, chemicals, or a larger object, seek immediate medical attention.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A CHECK-UP
Your eye doctor may recommend that you wear your lenses as normal throughout the day and keep them in for your appointment. This allows your doctor to assess how your lenses are performing and how your eyes are reacting to them.
During a contact lens check-up, your eye doctor will:
1. Evaluate your eye health – This includes an eye health assessment, tear film evaluation, and standard eye and vision tests.
2. Assess the comfort and fit of your lenses – A slit lamp microscope evaluation allows your doctor to check lens alignment and movement.
3. Check for signs of lens wear and tear – Cracked or torn contact lenses should be disposed of and replaced.
4. Make any necessary adjustments to how your lenses fit, how you care for them, and how long you wear them.
5. Discuss any issues or discomfort you may be experiencing, and, if needed, make recommendations for different lens types you may want to try.
6. Provide education you may need about using, cleaning and storing your contacts.
CONTACT LAKE EYE FOR ALL YOUR CONTACT LENS NEEDS
Regular contact lens check-ups are more than just a suggestion; they are an essential part of maintaining your eye health and safeguarding comfortable, clear vision. The caring professionals of Lake Eye (a US Eye company) are here to help you enjoy all the benefits of contact lenses while minimizing any related risks to your eye health and vision.
Our experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists conduct comprehensive, state-of-the-art eye exams specifically designed for contact lens wearers. We also provide customized fitting services to ensure your lenses are the right fit and type to deliver maximum comfort and wearability.
Every Lake Eye location also includes a full-service optical department featuring the latest in contact lenses, including specialty lenses for people living with chronic dry eye and corneal conditions like keratoconus, so nearly everyone can enjoy the clarity and convenience of contact lenses!
If you’re ready to begin your next chapter with contact lenses, or you haven’t had a contact lens check-up in a while, contact your local Lake Eye. We’re here to help keep you looking great and seeing brilliantly.
352-632-2020
