What Are Contact Lenses?
A contact lens is a curved lens that rides on the surface of your eye. They work much the same way glasses work in that they refract light to focus it properly on your retina. However, contact lenses move with your eye, whereas glasses do not, so you have a wider field of vision.
Types of contact lenses include soft, rigid gas-permeable (RGP), hybrid and toric contact lenses. The most common type is the soft contact lens that allows oxygen to reach your cornea. You can get them on daily, bi-weekly, and monthly replacement schedules.
RGP are more durable and allow for sharper vision, though it might take some time to adjust to them. Hybrid contact lenses combine the best of soft and RGP lenses in that they have a rigid center and a soft outer ring. Toric contact lenses are made to correct astigmatism – an irregularly shaped cornea. Toric lenses come in soft and RGP options. Your optometrist will determine the best option for you.
Inserting and Removing Contacts
People just starting with contacts may feel uncomfortable at first, but as you use them more, it gets easier. For a better experience, always wash your hands before handling contacts. Dry them with a lint-free towel. Place the lens on the tip of your finger — make sure it forms a bowl shape and is not inside out. Hold your eyelid open with the other hand, using your middle finger to pull your lower eyelid down. Look straight ahead and place the contact on your eye. Blink a few times to center the lens and seat it on your eye.
To remove the lens, hold your eye open in the same manner you did to insert the lens. Pinch the lens with your index finger and thumb to pull it off your eye.
Caring for Your Contact Lenses
Always clean the lenses every day with the solution your eye doctor recommends. Rub them gently between your fingers to remove any debris. Store the lenses in a clean case that is filled with the solution. Always replace the solution after each use.
Swimming and sleeping with your contacts in could increase the risk of infection, so neither is recommended. Always replace your lenses on the replacement schedule to ensure optimal vision and prevent discomfort.
Where to Find Contact Lenses in Santa Rosa, CA
At the Eye Care Institute, we proudly serve Santa Rosa and the surrounding areas in California. To find out more about contact lenses, speak with one of our optometrists. You can click here to schedule an appointment or call our office at 707-546-9800.