How To Get Used To Contacts

Ever felt envious of friends who effortlessly pop in their contacts and enjoy a life free from glasses sliding down their nose? Switching to contact lenses can seem daunting, but it opens up a whole new world of vision correction, offering improved peripheral vision, greater freedom during activities, and a more natural appearance. For many, the initial discomfort and learning curve are well worth the numerous benefits.

Mastering contact lens insertion, removal, and care is a skill that improves with practice and patience. Proper technique and hygiene are critical not only for comfort but also for maintaining healthy eyes and preventing potential complications like infections. By learning the correct procedures and understanding common challenges, you can significantly reduce your adjustment period and enjoy the convenience and advantages that contacts offer.

What are some frequently asked questions about adjusting to contact lenses?

How long does it typically take to adjust to wearing contacts?

The adjustment period for wearing contact lenses varies from person to person, but most new wearers typically adapt within a few days to a couple of weeks. Some individuals might feel comfortable almost immediately, while others may require a bit more time to get used to the sensation of having something on their eyes.

The initial discomfort often stems from the feeling of the lens on the eye, increased awareness of blinking, and potentially some mild dryness or irritation. During this period, it’s crucial to follow your eye care professional's instructions regarding wear time. Starting with shorter periods, such as a few hours each day, and gradually increasing the duration as your eyes adjust, is a common recommendation. This allows your eyes to slowly adapt to the lenses and minimizes potential discomfort. Several factors can influence the adjustment period. These include the type of contact lens (soft or rigid gas permeable), your individual eye sensitivity, and whether you have any pre-existing eye conditions like dry eye. Proper lens care, including thorough cleaning and disinfection, is also essential to prevent irritation and promote comfortable wear. If you experience persistent discomfort, redness, or vision changes, it’s important to consult with your eye doctor to rule out any underlying issues and ensure a successful contact lens experience.

What's the best way to handle dry eyes when wearing contacts?

The best way to handle dry eyes while wearing contacts is to proactively manage moisture levels and minimize irritation through lubricating eye drops specifically designed for contact lens wear, shorter wear times, proper contact lens hygiene, and considering different contact lens materials or modalities, such as daily disposables. It's also crucial to consult with your eye care professional to rule out underlying causes and tailor a personalized management plan.

Dry eyes are a common complaint among contact lens wearers. Contact lenses can disrupt the natural tear film, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, and a gritty sensation. Using lubricating eye drops formulated for contact lenses throughout the day is crucial. These drops rehydrate the lenses and provide a barrier between the lens and the eye, reducing friction and irritation. Look for preservative-free options to minimize potential allergic reactions or further irritation. Beyond eye drops, consider the type of contact lens you're using. Silicone hydrogel lenses generally allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, which can reduce dryness compared to older hydrogel lenses. Daily disposable lenses are often a good option, as they eliminate the buildup of protein and debris that can contribute to dryness. Proper contact lens hygiene is also essential. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses, and clean and store them according to your eye care professional's instructions. Replace your lens case regularly to prevent bacterial contamination. If dryness persists despite these measures, discuss switching to a different lens type or modality with your eye doctor. They may also recommend prescription eye drops or other treatments to address underlying dry eye issues.

How do I properly clean my contacts to avoid irritation?

Proper contact lens cleaning is paramount to prevent irritation and potential infections. Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses. Rub and rinse your lenses with the recommended multi-purpose solution after each use, regardless of whether you wore them all day or just for a few hours.

Cleaning removes accumulated debris like proteins, lipids, and environmental contaminants that can cause discomfort and blurry vision. Never use tap water, saliva, or homemade solutions to clean your lenses, as these can introduce harmful microorganisms that can lead to serious eye infections. Rubbing the lenses gently dislodges debris more effectively than simply rinsing.

Here’s why a multi-purpose solution is essential:

Replace your lens case regularly, at least every three months, and clean it frequently with contact lens solution, never water. Let the case air dry upside down on a clean towel after cleaning. Follow your eye care provider's specific instructions for lens cleaning and care, as they are tailored to your specific lens type and eye health needs. Failure to adhere to a strict cleaning routine can significantly increase the risk of complications.

What if I can't seem to insert or remove my contacts easily?

Don't panic; difficulty inserting or removing contacts is a very common experience for new wearers. Practice is key, but if you're struggling, review your technique, ensure your hands and lenses are clean, and consider using lubricating drops to ease insertion. If problems persist, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor; they can assess your technique, check for any underlying eye conditions contributing to the difficulty, and offer personalized solutions.

There are several reasons why you might be having trouble. You might be blinking reflexively as the lens approaches your eye. To combat this, try looking slightly away while inserting, focusing on a distant point, and holding your eyelids wide open. Using a mirror can also be incredibly helpful, especially when you're starting out. Ensure the lens is properly oriented – it should look like a small bowl, not a saucer with a lip. If it's inside out, it won't sit correctly and can cause discomfort. Also, dryness can significantly hinder both insertion and removal. Always use fresh contact lens solution and consider rewetting drops approved for contact lens use, especially before removing the lenses.

If insertion is still problematic, ask your eye doctor about insertion and removal tools. These small, plastic devices can help hold the lens steady and make insertion less intimidating. For removal, ensuring your hands are completely dry provides a better grip. Look up and gently pull down your lower eyelid. Then, use your index finger to gently slide the lens down onto the white part of your eye. Gently pinch the lens between your thumb and index finger to remove it. Avoid using your fingernails, as they can damage the lens and irritate your eye. Remember to always follow your eye doctor's specific instructions and maintain a strict hygiene routine to prevent infections and ensure comfortable contact lens wear.

Can I wear contacts while sleeping or swimming?

Generally, it's not recommended to wear contacts while sleeping or swimming. Sleeping in contacts, unless specifically prescribed for overnight wear by your eye doctor, significantly increases the risk of eye infections. Swimming with contacts also poses a risk due to the presence of microorganisms in water that can adhere to the lenses and cause serious infections and irritation.

Extended wear contacts, specifically designed and prescribed by an eye doctor, are the exception to the rule about sleeping in contacts. These lenses are made of materials that allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, reducing the risk of infection associated with overnight wear. However, even with extended wear lenses, it's crucial to follow your eye doctor's instructions carefully regarding cleaning and replacement schedules. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor your eye health and ensure the continued suitability of extended wear. When swimming, whether in a pool, lake, or ocean, water can introduce bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms to your contact lenses. These organisms can lead to painful and potentially sight-threatening infections such as Acanthamoeba keratitis. If you must wear contacts while swimming, daily disposable lenses are the safest option, as they can be discarded immediately after swimming, minimizing the risk of infection. Alternatively, consider wearing prescription goggles for clear vision underwater without the risks associated with contact lens wear. Always consult with your eye doctor for personalized advice regarding contact lens wear in various situations.

What kind of eye makeup is safe to use with contacts?

Water-based or gel-based eye makeup products are generally safer to use with contacts compared to oil-based or powder-based products. Specifically, hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist-tested, and non-comedogenic options are best to minimize irritation and reduce the risk of infection or lens contamination. Always prioritize application techniques that avoid getting makeup directly into the eye.

When choosing eye makeup, meticulously reviewing labels is key. Opt for products explicitly labeled as "safe for contact lens wearers" or "ophthalmologist tested." These formulations are typically designed to be less irritating and less likely to deposit onto the lenses. Cream eyeshadows or gel eyeliners are preferable over powdered alternatives, as powders have a higher chance of flaking and getting trapped under the contact lens, causing discomfort or scratching. Moreover, consider the application method. Apply eye makeup after inserting your contact lenses to avoid transferring oils or particles from your hands onto the lens surface. Similarly, remove your contacts before removing your makeup. When applying eyeliner, avoid the waterline (the inner rim of the eyelid) as this area directly contacts the lens and can easily transfer product. Using disposable applicators, such as mascara wands or eyeliner brushes, can also reduce the risk of bacterial contamination. Regular cleaning of makeup brushes is paramount to prevent the build-up of bacteria, which can then be transferred to your eyes.

How often should I get my eyes checked after starting to wear contacts?

After starting to wear contact lenses, you should typically get your eyes checked 1-2 weeks after your initial fitting and dispensing appointment, and then every 6 months or annually thereafter, as advised by your eye care professional. This frequency allows your doctor to monitor the health of your cornea and eyelids, ensure the lenses fit correctly, and confirm your vision hasn't changed and that you are using and cleaning your lenses properly.

More frequent follow-up appointments are often necessary in the initial stages of contact lens wear. The first follow-up visit, usually scheduled within a week or two of receiving your lenses, is crucial for assessing how your eyes are adapting. Your eye doctor will examine your cornea for any signs of irritation, dryness, or infection. They’ll also confirm that the lens is moving properly on your eye and that your vision is clear and comfortable. Any necessary adjustments to the fit, lens type, or wearing schedule can be made at this stage to optimize your experience and prevent potential problems. Once you've established a comfortable and healthy contact lens routine, the frequency of eye exams can often be reduced to every 6 months to a year. However, certain factors may necessitate more frequent check-ups. These include a history of dry eye, allergies, giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC), or other eye conditions. Similarly, if you experience any discomfort, redness, blurry vision, or other unusual symptoms while wearing your contacts, you should schedule an appointment with your eye doctor immediately, regardless of when your last check-up was. Remember, diligent follow-up care is essential for maintaining healthy vision and comfortable contact lens wear long-term.

And that's it! Getting used to contacts can take a little patience, but stick with it, and you'll be seeing clearly in no time. Thanks for reading, and don't hesitate to come back if you have any more questions – we're always happy to help you see the world a little more clearly!