What To Expect Your First TimeWearing Contacts
Getting your first pair of contact lenses is exciting because you have more freedom with your vision. Now, you can alternate between wearing contact lenses and eyeglasses. However, sometimes contacts take a little time to get used to. Read on to find out what you can expect the first time wearing contacts and some helpful tips for putting them in, taking them out, and cleaning them properly.
7 Things to Know About Wearing Contact Lenses
Many patients have questions when getting their first pair of contact lenses, like, “Do contacts feel weird at first?” It’s completely normal to experience an adjustment period when trying something new, and first-time contact lenses are no different.
Yes, they will likely feel weird when wearing them for the first few times. It can also feel frustrating when you’re learning how to put them in, but just like anything else, practice makes perfect. Here’s the lowdown on all things contacts.
1. How to Get Contacts for the First Time
Getting contact lenses for the first time starts with a comprehensive eye exam. During your appointment, let your optometrist know you’re interested in switching to contact lenses. The eye doctor will assess your vision and discuss your lifestyle needs to determine the best type of contact lenses for you.
During the exam, your eye doctor will measure the curvature of your eye to ensure contact lenses will sit comfortably and provide clear vision. The optometrist will also explain how to insert, remove, and care for your new contacts. Remember to ask any questions you might have to ensure you feel confident in your decision.
Reusable Contacts vs. Daily Disposable Contacts
You must choose between reusable and daily disposable contacts when choosing contact lenses. Reusable contacts can be worn for a certain number of days before needing to be replaced, but they require a daily cleaning regimen. On the other hand, daily disposable contacts are designed to be used once and then discarded, making them a convenient option if you prefer not to deal with the hassle of cleaning. Daily disposable contacts can also reduce the risk of irritation and infection. Talk with your local optometrist to see if this is the right choice for you.
2. How to Put in Contact Lenses for the First Time
Putting your contacts in for the very first time is awkward, but it gets easier with practice. Many first-timers worry that the lens will get sucked into the back of the socket with no chance of recovering it. This is a myth! Your eyelid connects to the back of your eye, so the contact lens cannot slip back there.
To help you feel more confident about your first time wearing contacts, follow these simple steps:
- Read the Manufacturer's Directions: Before you begin, read and follow the directions provided by the contact lens manufacturer. These instructions are crucial for ensuring your lenses are used safely and effectively.
- Wash Your Hands: Before handling your lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent irritation from any particles or germs on your hands. Dry your hands with a towel that won’t leave behind fluff or fabric pieces, which could lodge in your eye and cause further irritation.
- Gently Inspect Your Lenses: Contact lenses can tear easily, so be gentle when handling them. Carefully inspect the lens to ensure it’s clean and free of tears. If the edges flare outward, the lens is inside-out. Gently flip it over so it’s in the correct position.
- Hold Your Eye Open: Your natural reflex is to squint and close your eye, so use one hand to hold your upper and lower eyelids open. This helps prevent your eye from closing down on the lens. Focusing on a single object can be helpful as you slowly bring the lens to your eye.
- Gently Place the Lens: Once the lens is in, blink a few times to help it settle. If the lens feels uncomfortable or your vision is blurry, remove it, check for any debris, and try again. Your eyes may water slightly as they adjust to the lens, but this sensation should quickly pass.
3. Expect an Adjustment Period
If it’s your first time wearing contacts, it’s completely normal for them to feel a bit strange. Your eyes will need some time to adjust to the sensation of having lenses in place. Over the next few days (or even hours), the initial discomfort will gradually lessen, and soon you won’t even notice that you’re wearing them—except that you’ll see better than you do without them.
How Long Can You Wear Contacts for the First Time?
For your first time wearing contacts, it’s important to ease into it. Typically, you should wear them for a few hours on the first day—around four to six hours is ideal. Gradually increase the wear time each day as your eyes adjust. Your optometrist will provide more specific guidelines based on your eye health and the type of contact lenses you’re using.
4. How to Take Out Contacts for the First Time
Removing your contact lenses may seem tricky initially, but with a little practice, it becomes a quick and simple process! Follow these steps to remove your contacts:
- Wash Your Hands: Just like when you’re inserting contacts, start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This ensures you won’t transfer any dirt or germs to your eyes.
- Hold Your Eye Open: Use one hand to gently pull down the lower part of your eyelid. This will help open your eye wider, making it easier to reach the contact lens.
- Move the Lens: With your index finger, carefully slide the lens down to the white part of your eye (the sclera). This exposed area makes it easier to remove the lens without discomfort.
- Gently Pinch and Remove: Once the lens is on the white part of your eye, use your thumb and index finger to gently pinch the lens and pull it out. Be careful not to squeeze too hard to avoid damaging the lens.
With these steps, you’ll find that removing your contacts becomes second nature in no time.
5. If You Have Reusable Contacts, Clean Them
You should get clear instructions from your optometrist on thoroughly cleaning your contact lenses. While it may be tempting to take a shortcut on the days you’re rushed or extremely tired, we recommend that you follow your prescribed regimen closely. Having an inconsistent cleaning routine could result in complications with your contact lenses.
Use a multipurpose solution to clean your contact lenses, and whatever you do, avoid topping off the solution that’s already in the case. Dump out the existing solution, clean out the cap, and refill it with new solution before placing your contact lenses in there for the night.
6. Always Wear Contacts as Recommended
Make sure to wear your contacts as prescribed by your optometrist. Contact lenses should be removed daily. Consult your optometrist about the best regimen for you, your vision health, and your lifestyle. It’s not typically recommended to wear contacts every day all day long because your eyes need to breathe. Also, replace reusable contact lenses as recommended, generally every three months.
7. Remember to Stay Hydrated
When wearing contacts, it’s important to drink enough water to stay hydrated. If you live in dry climates or work heavily on computers, consider supplementing with eye drops. Dry eyes can feel irritated regardless, but even more so if you wear contact lenses. Staying hydrated and using eye drops will help lubricate your eyes and reduce irritation.
Speak with Your Optometrist About Contact Lenses
If you’re on the fence about wearing contact lenses, consult with your local eye doctor. After a quick eye exam, they will be able to determine whether it’s the right choice for your vision and which contacts would serve you best.
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Information received through Visionworks® content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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