TOP TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME CONTACT LENS WEARERS: WHAT TO EXPECT AND HOW TO ADJUST

If you’re new to contact lenses, get ready for an exciting journey to clearer vision and newfound freedom. Whether you’re looking to enhance your style, enjoy the convenience of lens wear, or simply experience life without glasses, you’re in for a treat. As you embark on this adventure, remember that it’s perfectly normal to have questions and need a little time to adjust. With a bit of practice and the right tips, you’ll soon be navigating your daily routine with confidence. Let’s get started on making your contact lens experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

FIRST-TIME CONTACT LENS TIPS
Here are some common sense, practical contact lens tips to help you transition into the world of contact lenses:
. Practice Good Hygiene – Always wash your hands thoroughly with mild, fragrance-free soap and dry them using a lint-free towel before handling your contact lenses. Good hygiene can help prevent eye infection and irritation from germs, bacteria and debris.

. Create the Right Environment – Practice in a well-lit space in front of a mirror until you develop muscle memory for the procedure. If needed, use a magnifying mirror so you can see what you’re doing. Make sure to avoid air conditioning vents, fans, or open windows, as the moving air could dry out your lenses.

. Master the Insertion and Removal Technique – The art of inserting and removing contact lenses takes practice, so be patient with yourself. For many, the process is frustrating at first, so take breaks when you need them. Once you get into the groove, it will get quicker and easier. Here are some tips for success:

1. Start with the same eye each time to avoid mix-ups.

2. Place the lens on the tip of your index fingertip and make sure it’s not inside-out.

3. Add a drop of saline solution to the lens before insertion to help it adhere more easily.

4. Use what’s called the “monkey grip” technique: Reach over your head with the opposite hand and lift your upper eyelid as high as it will comfortably go, and use your other hand to pull down your lower lid.

5. Look up or to the side as you insert the lens, rather than staring directly at the lens. This can help reduce the reﬂex to blink. Some people are “clenchers,” meaning they have a predisposition to react to things touching their eyes. With practice, this tendency will lessen over time.

6. Place the lens on the white part of your eye first, then let it slide into place over your iris. Blink gently to center the lens.

7. To remove the lens, look upward and use your clean fingertip to slide the lens down toward the white of your eye before carefully pinching it out.
. Allow an Adjustment Period – In the beginning, it’s normal to experience some mild discomfort or awareness of your lenses. Your eyes may water, look red or feel slightly irritated. You may find your eyes feel a little dry, or you blink more often than normal. Your vision may blur occasionally. This typically improves within 1-2 weeks of consistent wear. To help you adjust, take a gradual approach:

1. Start by wearing your lenses for 2-4 hours on the first day.

2. Gradually increase wear time by 1-2 hours each day.

3. Most people can comfortably wear lenses for a full day (8-12 hours) within 1-2 weeks, though if it takes you longer, that’s perfectly okay. Go at your own pace.

4. Soft lenses are usually quicker to adapt to than rigid gas permeable lenses.

Remember, it’s normal for inserting contact lenses to feel challenging at first. If you talk to others who wear contact lenses, most will tell you it took them some adjustment. But, with consistent practice and patience, most people find it becomes much easier over time. Longtime users will likely tell you that it’s second nature to them now.

ADJUSTING TO THE FEELING OF CONTACT LENSES
For some, having a foreign object in the eye can create some discomfort. If this applies to you, these tips may help:
. Stay Hydrated – Drinking plenty of water may help ease eye dryness and irritation.

. Use Lubricating Eye Drops – Not all eye drops are compatible with all contact lenses or eye conditions. Ask your eye doctor about which lubricating drops are best for your eye health and lenses.

. Blink More Often – It may be surprising to know that people often forget to blink enough, especially if they’re staring at phone, computer or tablet screens. Make it a habit to blink often, especially while using digital devices, watching TV, reading, etc.

. Take Breaks – If your eyes feel tired or strained, remove your lenses and wear glasses for a while to give your eyes a breather.

SOME FINAL CONTACT LENS TIPS
. Don’t Overdo Wear Times – Always follow the contact lens wearing schedule recommended by your eye doctor. Don’t be tempted to sleep in your lenses or keep using them past their life cycle, as this can be a recipe for eye infection, abrasion or ulceration.
. Never Use Water on Your Lenses – Tap water is full of contaminants and should never be used to clean, moisturize or store lenses. Always use the contact lens solution recommended by your eye care professional.
. Store Your Lenses in Their Case – Always store your clean lenses inside a clean lens case. Rinse the case with sterile contact solution every night, and fill it with enough fresh solution to submerge your lenses. Gently secure the lids. Replace your lens case every three months or sooner if it becomes dirty or damaged.

WHEN TO CONTACT YOUR EYE DOCTOR
The eye doctors of Lake Eye (a US Eye company) are here to help you make a safe, smooth transition into the wonderful world of contact lens clarity and convenience. If, after two weeks, you continue to experience discomfort, irritation or vision issues, your lenses may need to be adjusted for fit or changed to a different type of lens. Any signs of eye infection, such as discharge, undue redness, or swelling, require immediate attention. We are here to help throughout your adjustment.

Count on the vision care specialists of Lake Eye to help you decide which type of contact lens will best suit your unique eyes and lifestyle needs – from soft, rigid gas-permeable and hybrid, to Rose-K and scleral for people with keratoconus and other corneal issues. We provide comprehensive eye exams, vision exams, contact lens fittings, and a full range of contact lenses, for complete, one-stop service.

Lake Eye Associates
352-632-2020

LakeEye.com