The Complete Guide to Contact Lenses: Types, Care, and Tips

Contact lenses offer a convenient and versatile alternative to glasses, allowing you to experience clear vision without frames on your face. At Palmetto Eye Care, we want to ensure that our patients have all the information they need to make the best decision for their vision needs. This comprehensive guide will cover the different types of contact lenses, essential care tips, and helpful advice to ensure your contacts stay comfortable and your eyes healthy.
 

Types of Contact Lenses

There are several types of contact lenses available, each designed to meet specific vision and lifestyle needs. Soft lenses are the most popular type of contact lens due to their comfort and flexibility. They are made from hydrogel or silicone hydrogel materials, allowing oxygen to pass through to the cornea for a more comfortable fit. Types of soft lenses include:
 

• Daily Disposable Lenses: These are worn once and then discarded, making them a low-maintenance and hygienic option.

• Biweekly and Monthly Lenses: Designed to be worn for a set period, these lenses require nightly cleaning and storage but can be more cost-effective than daily lenses.

• Toric Lenses: Designed for patients with astigmatism, toric lenses correct uneven curvature in the eye.
   

RGP lenses are made of more durable materials and allow for better oxygen permeability compared to older hard lenses. Although they may take longer to get used to, they offer sharper vision for certain eye conditions like keratoconus or high levels of astigmatism.
 

For patients who want to change or enhance their eye color, colored lenses are available in both prescription and non-prescription forms. While they can add a fun aesthetic, it’s important to ensure they fit properly and are cared for like regular contact lenses.
 

Contact Lens Care Tips

Proper care is crucial to prevent infections, discomfort, and other eye problems. Here are some key tips to ensure your lenses stay clean and your eyes healthy:
 

• Wash and Dry Your Hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your lenses. Dry them with a lint-free towel to prevent debris from getting on your lenses.

• Use Fresh Solution: Never reuse contact lens solution. Always use fresh, sterile solution to clean and store your lenses. Avoid using water or saliva to clean your lenses as these can introduce harmful bacteria.

• Clean Your Lens Case: Your contact lens case should be cleaned with fresh solution and left open to air dry every day. Replace your case every three months to reduce the risk of contamination.

• Follow the Wearing Schedule: Whether you’re using daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses, it’s essential to follow the prescribed wearing schedule. Over-wearing your lenses can lead to discomfort and even serious eye conditions.
   

Tips for Comfortable Wear

• Avoid Sleeping in Contacts: Unless you’re using approved extended-wear lenses, avoid sleeping with your contacts in. This reduces oxygen flow to your eyes and increases the risk of infection.

• Stay Hydrated: If you experience dry eyes while wearing contacts, consider using rewetting drops or artificial tears. Drinking plenty of water can also help keep your eyes naturally moist.

• Take Breaks from Screen Time: Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, making your contacts feel uncomfortable. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a break.
   

When to See Your Eye Doctor

It’s essential to have regular eye exams to ensure your contact lenses are fitting properly and that your prescription is up to date. If you experience any of the following, contact Palmetto Eye Care immediately:
 

• Persistent redness or irritation

• Blurred vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Pain in or around the eye
   

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam with Palmetto Eye Care Today

Are you ready to experience clear vision with contact lenses? Schedule your contact lens consultation at Palmetto Eye Care, visit our office in Columbia, South Carolina, or call (803) 732-4166 to book an appointment today.