How to Get Contacts

Tired of your clunky old eyeglasses? If you want to improve your vision without a lot of hardware, contact lenses may be the answer for you. Read on to learn how to get contacts.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.

• Getting contacts can allow you to see more clearly without wearing eyeglasses or undergoing surgery. If you are concerned about your appearance, or feel weighed down by glasses, contacts may be an ideal vision-correcting option for you.

• Before you head out to buy contacts, think about your decision. Here are some things to consider:

1. Contacts are more lightweight than glasses
2. They offer a wider field of vision than glasses
3. They are broken less often than glasses
4. They allow people to see all of your face
5. You can choose different colors to tint your eyes
6. Contacts do not fog up

1. They can damage the cornea if not used properly

2. Dirt can get stuck in them

3. They can lead to infection if not properly cleaned

4. If they fall out, they may be difficult to find

5. Contacts require daily maintenance

6. It may feel strange to touch your eyeball directly

• If you decide that contacts are for you, visit an optometrist for a prescription. Your doctor will perform various tests on your eyes, and then determine if you are a good candidate for contact lenses. She or he will also decide which strength and type your particular vision problem requires. Once you have the prescription, you may purchase your lenses wherever you would like. You can even buy online from a site like LensCrafters.com or VisionDirect.com.

• Remember to ask your doctor to explain the different options for contacts, such as soft vs.hard, and colored vs.clear. Some contacts are made for extended wear. Others have built-in UV protection, which is great if you spend a lot of time outdoors.

• Once you have your lenses, follow all care instructions. Clean and store them as directed, and never keep them in longer than the manufacturer recommends. If you do not take proper care of your contacts, you will leave yourself vulnerable to infection and eye damage.

• Contacts can be a great option for those who need to enhance their vision, but do not like wearing glasses. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. Then head to an eye doctor for a prescription. Once you have that, purchase your contacts and remember to care for them as directed.

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