Getting Started with Contact Lenses: Your Questions Answered!
Switching to contact lenses can be an exciting change, especially if you’ve worn glasses for years. But if you’re new to contacts, you probably have some questions—Will they be comfortable? How do I take care of them? What if I lose one?
At Optometrists’ Clinic Edmonton, we’re here to help you through the transition. Our team can answer all your questions, guide you through your first fitting, and make sure you’re comfortable with your new lenses. If you’re considering contact lenses, scheduling an eye exam in Edmonton is the first step!
Common Questions About Contact Lenses
Will I Feel the Lenses in My Eyes?
Not at all! When properly inserted, contact lenses should feel comfortable—most wearers forget they even have them in. However, discomfort can happen if:
- You put the lens in inside-out.
- There’s dirt, dust, or makeup on the lens.
- The lens is damaged.
If your contacts feel irritating, remove them, clean them with fresh solution, and try again. If discomfort continues, schedule an appointment to make sure your lenses are the right fit.
Will My Eyes Feel Dry?
Some contact lens wearers experience dry eyes, but there are ways to prevent this:
- Choose moisture-rich lenses if you already have dry eyes.
- Use rewetting drops (approved by your optometrist).
- Blink regularly, especially when using screens.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
If dryness becomes a persistent issue, talk to your eye doctor in Edmonton about alternative lens options.
Can I Swim While Wearing Contacts?
It’s not recommended to wear contacts while swimming. Pools, lakes, and hot tubs contain bacteria that can stick to your lenses and cause serious eye infections. If you need vision correction in the water, consider prescription swim goggles instead.
Can a Contact Lens Get Lost Behind My Eye?
Nope! It’s physically impossible for a contact lens to slip behind your eye. The inside of your eyelid has a protective membrane that prevents anything from moving too far. If a lens shifts out of place, it’s still on your eye—it may just take a little patience to find it.
What Are Common Contact Lens Symptoms?
Most people have no issues wearing contact lenses. However, it’s good to know that minor symptoms can sometimes occur, including:
- Mild irritation
- Sensitivity to light
- Watery eyes
- Redness or itchiness
These can usually be prevented by proper lens care:
- Always wash your hands before handling contacts.
- Use fresh contact lens solution—never tap water.
- Replace lenses as instructed (daily, biweekly, or monthly).
If you experience ongoing discomfort, blurry vision, or eye pain, remove your contacts and visit an optometrist in Edmonton as soon as possible.
How Do I Put in Contact Lenses?
Applying contacts takes practice, but our team will guide you through it during your first visit. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
- Shake the lens container before opening it.
- Place the lens on your dry palm and rinse with fresh contact solution.
- Balance the lens on your fingertip—make sure it’s not inside out (it should look like a smooth bowl, not a flared saucer).
- Hold your upper eyelid up with one hand and pull your lower lid down with the other.
- Gently place the lens on your eye.
- Blink a few times to adjust the lens.
Pro tip: Never rinse or store your lenses in tap water—this can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of infection.
Book Your Eye Exam in Edmonton Today!
Millions of people wear contact lenses every day, and you can too! Whether you’re looking for daily disposables, extended-wear lenses, or coloured contacts, Optometrists’ Clinic Edmonton has you covered.
Schedule your next eye exam in Edmonton to get the perfect contact lens prescription and fitting. Visit us at one of our Edmonton-area clinics or contact us online for more information!
