ContactLens.LifeTips.com

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1 ContactLens.LifeTips.com

2 Category: Bifocal Contact Lenses Subcategory: About Bifocal Contact Lenses Tip: Bifocal Contact Lenses Until recently people who wore contacts to see distant objects and also needed vision correction to read had to wear reading glasses over their contact lenses. Recently bifocal contact lenses have become more comfortable, advanced, and less expensive. Bifocal contact lenses are available in both rigid gas permeable or soft lens designs. However, these are typically very expensive. Category: Colored Contact Lenses Subcategory: Buying Colored Contact Lenses Tip: Choosing Your Color Contacts There is no way to know whether a particular color of contact lens will work for you without trying them on. Most doctor's offices have colored lenses available as trials. One popular type of colored lenses are Acuvue Color Contacts. Also, if you already wear Freshlook Colors, you can get a Free fashion trial set when you order your lenses. Category: Common Contact Lens Problems Subcategory: Common Contact Lens Problems Tip: Contact Lenses Inside/Out There are several ways to tell if your contacts are inside-out. First, many of the most popular lenses have so-called inversion markings - you can tell the lens is inside out if the writing does not appear correctly. Second, the lens will tend to cup inwards when you are holding it correctly. Finally, if you put the lens on your eye inside out, the lens will tend to slide around on your eye. Tip: Preventing Protein Buildup on Contact Lenses Lens.com Tip: If you are experiencing a problem with protein build up, try Proclear lenses. They are biocompatible, meaning that the body does not try to "reject" them. The lenses are specially coated to resist the build up of proteins and lipids.

3 Tip: Relief Suggestions for Dry Eyes Lens.com Tip: If your current contacts dry out your eyes, consider switching to O2 Optics. These lenses are made with silicone hydrogel, allowing five times more oxygen to reach the eye. Tip: Relief Suggestions for Dry Eyes There are a number of factors which may contribute to dry eyes, such as wearing contact lenses, being in a smoky environment, or certain diseases. But fortunately, there are also a number of options which may bring relief to those who suffer from dry eyes. If your contact lenses are causing your dry eyes consult your eye doctor to determine whether or not a different type of lens would bring you relief. Your eye doctor may also recommend the use of rewetting drops, which can return the moisture to your eye. Other options for relieving dry eyes include: Avoiding smoky environments or quitting smoking if you smoke Taking a multivitamin rich in A, D and C Applying an ocular lubricant at night Tip: Wearing Contact Lenses With Seasonal Allergies Those who have seasonal allergies can still wear contact lenses. The key to wearing contact lenses with allergies is devising a strategy for dealing with the impact allergies may have on wearing contact lenses. Seasonal allergies can certainly make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable but some strategies for minimizing the discomfort include frequently using rewetting drops, using over the counter or prescription drugs to reduce allergy symptoms and discontinuing the use of contact lenses during periods of extreme discomfort. Category: Contact Lens Care Subcategory: Contact Lens Care Tip: Always Store Contact Lenses in a Sterile Case Contact lenses should always be stored in a sterile carrying case filled with fresh solution. This will ensure the contact lenses remain moist and clean. Contact lens wearers should carry both a storage case and a bottle of storing solution in case they need to take out their contact lenses. Many contact lens wearers make the mistake of carrying a storage case filled with solution. This is not ideal because the solution may become tainted or even evaporate if left in the case for too long. Tip: Cleaning Methods for Contact Lenses There are many different methods for cleaning contact lenses. The best way to clean

4 contacts is to follow the cleaning methods recommended by an eye care professional. These methods will depend on a number of factors including the types of lenses, health of the eye and lifestyle of the wearer. There are some similarities to these different cleaning methods and the following steps are included in most methods: Wash and dry hands thoroughly Remove contact lenses Gently rub contact lenses with cleaning solution Store the lenses in a case filled with fresh disinfecting or storage solution Tip: Part-Time Contact Lens Wear The 2 weeks refers to the actual amount of wearing time so they can last longer than 2 weeks if you are not wearing them full time. For example, if you wear your 2 week disposable contact lenses every other day then they should last you 1 month. Tip: Proper Lens Care Can Save You Money Some contact lens cleaning solutions can be rather expensive, but in the long run they can save you money. The products recommended by your eye doctor may seem expensive but they can result in cost savings if they keep your contact lenses cleaner than less expensive cleaning solutions. When contact lenses are not cleaned properly they may become uncomfortable and may need to be replaced more frequently than anticipated. The cost of replacing contact lenses too often can exceed the cost of using cleaning solutions of a higher quality. Subcategory: Contact Lens Care Questions Tip: Back-up Glasses You should always have a back-up pair of eyeglasses - even if you wear your contacts all the time. For one thing if you lose a contact, or if you get a pink-eye and need to stop wearing your contact lenses for a while, you'll need glasses in order to see. If you plan to wear them indoors only, you dont need to spend a fortune - get the cheapest pair you can find. Subcategory: Contact Lens Cleaning Tip: No-Rub Cleaining Solutions Many contact lens solutions are now marketed as no-rub. This means that the manufacturer believes you can clean the lens effectively by simply storing and rinsing with the solution and dont need to spend time rubbing the lens to remove dirt and protein deposits

5 Category: Contact Lens Costs Subcategory: Contact Lens Costs Tip: Damaged Lenses If upon opening a new contact lens package you discover that the lens is damaged, save the lens and the packaging. Call your contact lens provider and ask if they can supply a replacement lens. You may be required to bring the lens and packaging back so that the lens can in turn be returned to the manufacturer. Tip: The Cost of Eye Examinations for Contact Lens Wearers The cost of eye examinations for contact lens wearers can vary widely from one eye doctor to another in the same area, and even more drastically across different cities and states. In general, eye examinations for contact lens wearers are more expensive than examinations for those who wear glasses only or do not require vision correction. Examinations for those who wear contact lenses are more costly because the eye care professional must examine the eye more closely and perform additional tests to ensure the contact lenses he prescribes will be ideal for the patient. Category: Contact Lens Infections Subcategory: Contact Lens Infections Tip: Causes of Fusarium Keratitis The exact causes of fusarium keratitis are not known, but there are certain risk factors which exist. These risk factors include trauma resulting in plant material entering the eye, chronic eye disease and a compromised immune system. Contact lens use has also been linked to fusarium keratitis although it is not believed that contact lenses directly cause the infection. In most cases, misuse of the contact lenses and poor hygiene contribute to the risk for fusarium keratitis. Tip: Contact Lenses and Fusarium Keratitis In April 2006, there was a rapid outbreak of the rare sight threatening infection known as fusarium keratitis. This outbreak caused widespread panic about the safety of wearing contact lenses when it was revealed that the majority of those with the infection were contact lens wearers. However, one particular contact lens solution was determined to be the cause of the infection. While the reasons the solution caused the infection are not yet known, those who wear contact lenses can be sure they are not at an increased risk for the infection. If you think you have an infection, or are showing

6 signs of an infection from your contact lenses, consult your eye care professional for immediate treatment. Tip: Signs of Fusarium Keratitis for Lens Wearers Lens wearers should be aware of the symptoms of the potentially sight threatening infection, fusarium keratitis. Those who wear contact lenses may be at an increased risk for developing the infection. If any of the symptoms of the infection are present, the individual should consult with their eye care provider immediately. The symptoms which often accompany fusarium keratitis may include: sudden blurred vision, pain in the eye, excessive tearing for discharge and increased sensitivity to light. Tip: What is Fusarium Keratitis? Fusarium keratitis is a serious corneal fungal infection that may result in permanent vision loss if left untreated. Fusarium keratitis is rare but the symptoms should be investigated to ensure the eye is not damaged permanently by the infection. Those who suspect they have an eye infection should schedule an appointment with their eye care provider immediately. Symptoms of fusarium keratitis include the following: Blurred vision which occurs suddenly Redness of the eye Pain in the eye Increased sensitivity to light Increased tearing Category: Contact Lens Prescriptions Subcategory: Contact Lens Prescription Parameters Tip: Contact Lens Base Curve Base Curve, or BC, values range from about 8.0 to 9.5. The doctor fits the lens with the curvature most appropriate for your eye. Most disposable contact lenses come in several different base curve values. If your prescription does not contain a base curve value, this is likely because your brand of lens only comes in one base curve. base curve values are a bit like clothes sizes - just because you are a base curve 8.6 in one brand of contact lenses doesn't mean you will be in another. Tip: Contact Lens Prescriptions vs. Eyeglass Prescriptions A contact lens prescription is very different than an eyeglass prescription. In addition to the lens power, your contact lens prescription contains several other pieces of information related to the size of the lens. These will include base curve, diameter, power, and experation date. Toric and bifocal contact lenses also contain more numbers specific to those types of lenses.

7 Tip: Preparing for a Contact Lens Follow-up When visiting your eye care provider for a contact lens follow-up wear your contact lenses for at least 3 to 4 hours prior to the visit if possible. This will assure that your eye care provider is able to properly evaluate the fit and comfort of your lenses. Tip: Why Does a Contact Exam Cost more than an Eyeglass Exam? Contact prescriptions require additional measurements above and beyond the traditional eyeglass lens exam measurements. Often eye care providers include follow-visits and contact lens refitting in the cost of a contact lens exam. Toric and gas permeable contacts are the most difficult lenses to fit and require more re-checks than a standard contact prescription, so exams for these types of contacts are frequently a few dollars more than a standard contact lens exam. Category: Contact Lens Wear Subcategory: Contact Lens Wear Tip: Contact Lens Expirations Contact lens manufacturers are required to put expiration dates on all contact lenses. Always use your contact lenses before this expiration date. Contact lenses are not guaranteed to be sterile past their expiration. Tip: Hairspray With Contact Lenses Ideally, hairspray should be applied before contact lenses are inserted. This is important because when hairspray is sprayed there is typically a residual amount of the product which remains in the air for a few seconds. This residue can adhere to the contact lenses and cause a variety of problems ranging from mild discomfort to infection. If it is necessary to insert contact lenses prior to using hairspray, closing the eyes while spraying the product and for a few seconds afterwards is recommended. Tip: Inserting Contact Lenses Lens.com Tip: To make inserting your contacts even easier, consider Acuvue Toric lenses. These lenses are specifically for people with astigmatism. They are tinted to help locate the lenses in the contact case.

8 Tip: Removing Contact Lenses Most new contact lens wearers find removing contact lenses to be easier than inserting them. New patients should receive advice from their eye care provider on how to properly remove contact lenses. The steps for removing contact lenses usually include the following: Wash hands thoroughly Insert rewetting drops if the eyes feel dry Pull the lower lid down with the index finger of the dominant hand Look up slightly Pull the contact lens downward towards the white of the eye Gently pinch the lens between the thumb and index finger Tip: The Risk of Extended Wear Lenses Some contact lenses, called extended wear or continuous wear contacts, can be worn for a week or more without removing them. Individuals who sleep in their lenses, however, are at a much higher risk for eye infections or other complications. If you are considering extended wear contacts talk to your eye care professional about the best wear schedule for you. Category: Disposable Contact Lenses Subcategory: Buying Disposable Contact Lenses Tip: Disposable Contact Lenses Lens.com Tip: If you are looking for great contacts but don't want to spend a great amount of money, try Biomedics 55 Premier contact lenses. These lenses are often sold in doctors offices and optical chains under different names. The boxes might look different, but the product is the same. Tip: Disposable Contact Lenses There are many brands and types of disposable contacts to choose from. It doesn't hurt to have a brand or two in mind when you visit your eye doctor. Focus Contact Lenses are a leading brand that offer great quality at reasonable prices. Biomedics contact lenses offer a more discounted lens. Acuvue 2 Contacts are one of the most popular lenses for normal daily disposables. Finally, if you are a bit more adventurous and have a little more to spend try Freshlook Colorblends. They cost a bit more, but they give your eyes a fresh look of color that you will fall in love with. Subcategory: Types of Disposable Contact Lenses

9 Tip: Types of Disposable Contact Lenses Dispoable contact lenses are becoming more and more advanced all the time. There are a few key types of disposable contact lenses available today. Disposable contact lenses come in a variety of wear cycles. There are daily disposable contacts, 1-2 week disposable contact lenses, and 1-3 month disposables contact lenses. You can choose from this range to suit your budget and your preference. --Colored contact lenses can change or enhance your eye color. These lenses are available for dark and light eyes. Opaque contact lenses are for dark eyes, while enhancers are for light eyes. Toric contact lenses correct astigmatism and have only recently begun to be available in disposable varieties at lower prices. --RGP or oxygen permeable contact lenses are smaller and more rigid contact lenses that allow oxygen through. --Bifocal contact lenses are great for those people who are both far-sighted and near-sighted. They allow you to throw away your reading glasses once and for all! Category: Purchasing Contact Lenses Subcategory: Purchasing Contact Lenses Tip: Comparison Shopping For Contact Lenses Online Lens.com Tip: Online contact lens sites offer a wide variety of contact lenses, such as PureVision contacts, which are suitable for either daily or extended wear. Online sites usually ship lenses within 2-4 business days and offer a return or exchange period. Tip: Comparison Shopping For Contact Lenses Online One of the best ways to find the lowest prices for contact lenses online is through comparison shopping. There are many online resources available for comparing the prices of several different contact lens distributors. Using these resources can enable users to easily compare the prices of a specific type of contact lens offered by several different retailers. Make sure you have the phone number, address and prescription information from your eye care professional handy. The online site you order from should ask you for these details to verify your information before purchasing. If the company you choose to purchase from doesn't ask you for your doctor's name or address, be weary of ordering through that company. Tip: Errors in Online Contact Lens Orders Purchasing contact lenses online is relatively safe as long as a few precautions are taken. However, errors still occur and consumers should know how to deal with these problems. If the error is merely an honest mistake, contacting the distributor to inform them of the problem and returning the incorrect contact lenses may be all the consumer

10 needs to do to remedy the problem and have the correct lenses reshipped. If the consumer believes he/she mistakenly purchased contact lenses from a distributor who is illegally selling contact lenses they should contact the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). Tip: Ordering Contact Lenses Through Direct Mail Catalogues Ordering contact lenses through direct mail catalogues can be safe as long as the consumer exercises caution and common sense. When ordering contact lenses through a direct mail catalogue, the consumer should ensure he/she has a valid prescription from his eye care provider, the lenses received from the catalogue match the prescription in power, size and shape and the contact lenses received are not passed their expiration date. Tip: Prescriptions Are Needed When Ordering Contact Lenses Online A valid prescription is necessary when ordering contact lenses online. The definition for a valid prescription varies from state to state but most states require the prescription be written within 1-2 years of when it is filled. Some of the important information included on a contact lens prescription includes: Patient name Date of eye exam Contact information for eye care professional who wrote the prescription Power of the prescribed lenses Material or manufacturer of the prescribed lenses Base curve Diameter Tip: Purchasing Contact Lenses From an Eye Care Professional Lens.com Tip: Explore your options when purchasing contact lenses from an eye doctor. For example, lenses such as Acuvue Oasis are made with Hydraclear Plus technology, which can keep your eyes feeling fresher longer. Category: Special Uses of Contact Lenses Subcategory: Special Uses of Contact Lenses Tip: Bifocal Contact Lenses Contact lenses are available for those who require different prescriptions for correcting distance vision as well as near vision. This condition is called presbyopia. The lenses often have one prescription on half of the lens and the other prescription on the other half of the lens. The prescriptions may switch abruptly or have a transitional section where the two prescriptions are blended. In the case of bifocal contact lenses the eye must learn to determine which prescription is required for viewing an object that is either near or far.

11 Tip: Cleaning Recommendations for Contact Lenses The cleaning methods for contact lenses vary from one type of contact lens to another and may also vary based on the needs of the patient. It is important to follow the cleaning recommendations provided by an eye care provider. These recommendations will likely include a specific brand of cleaning solution which should be used. The eye care provider makes these recommendations based on a number of factors including the overall health of the eye, lifestyle of the patient and type of contact lens. Failure to follow the doctor's recommendations may result in discomfort, pain or problems. Tip: Is Sleeping While Wearing Contact Lenses Safe? The introduction of silicone hydrogel contact lenses, which allow for increased levels of oxygen to reach the cornea, has resulted in a resurgence of extended wear contact lenses that can be worn overnight. Many believe sleeping while wearing these types of contacts is safe but there is an increased risk of infection in those who sleep while wearing contact lenses. This even applies to contact lenses approved for extended wear. While there are some contact lenses which are approved for use for 30 days, your eye care provider may recommend a shorter wearing schedule. Following these recommendations can help to maintain overall eye health. Tip: Lenses for Camping, Long Trips or Other Excursions If you plan to go camping, take a long trip or have an adventure planned ask your doctor about daily disposable lenses. Typically sold in packs of 30 lenses, these contacts require no cleaning and are thrown out after each use. They are wonderful for a trip or excursion where you may not have the ability to maintain your regular contact lens hygiene. Tip: Removing Contact Lenses After Sleeping Occasionally falling asleep while wearing contact lenses may not be harmful. However, care should be taken before removing the contact lenses because the lenses may become overly dry while the wearer is sleeping. In this case the use of rewetting drops may be necessary prior to attempting to remove the contact lenses. Without the use of rewetting drops the contact lens may be difficult to remove and may tear during removal. Category: Types of Contact Lenses

12 Subcategory: Types of Contact Lenses Tip: Colored Contact Lenses For Improved Sports Performance Lens.com Tip: If you are an athlete, you may prefer to wear different lenses on and off the playing field. The good news is that many brands, such as Focus contact lenses, come in a wide variety of styles ranging from disposable to color to bifocal to toric. Tip: Costume Contacts You can buy contacts that have extreme designs suitable for halloween and parties. There are various types available, including Wild Eyes contacts, crazy lenses, and even NFL football contacts, but remember you still need a contact lens prescription. Tip: Extended Wear Contacts Extended wear contacts are contact lenses that are approved by the FDA for overnight wear. You still need to check with your doctor if this is safe for you - not everybody's eyes are suitable for overnight contact lens wear. Focus Night & Day Contact Lenses are one popular extended wear lens. Tip: Hard Lenses vs. Rigid Semi-Permeable Lenses Lens.com Tip: Just because you have astigmatism does not mean that you have to give up comfort. Acuvue Advance for Astigmatism lenses offer wearers a unique silky feel because of their design and use of Hydraclear. Tip: Silcone Hydrogels and Eye Health Silicone Hydrogels are approved for extended periods of wear because they are designed to allow plenty of oxygen to reach the surface of your eyes - That's the reason conventional eyewear can't be worn for such long periods, your eyes would become oxygen starved. Tip: Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses Silicone Hydrogels are a type of contact lens that are designed to be worn for an extended period. The Focus Night & Day is the only such lens currently available in the US. This lens can be worn, with your eye-doctor's approval, for up to 30 days continuously. Tip: Toric Contact Lenses Lens.com Tip: Toric contacts lenses are available in many brands and many types. You can get disposable toric contact lenses, conventional toric contact lenses, even RGP

13 toric contact lenses. Tip: Why You Need a Prescription for Non-Prescription Colored Contacts Lens.com Tip: If you are interested in color contacts and require vision correction, consider FreshLook ColorBlends. These disposable lenses are designed to promote comfort, and they are available in many color choices.