The purpose of a contact lens exam is not only to ensure that you have the correct prescription for your lenses, but also to ensure the lenses are a good fit for your eyes. This is because an ill-fitting lens can cause discomfort and even damage your eyes. This exam also helps detect any potential eye diseases or conditions that could affect your ability to wear contact lenses.

A contact lens exam is a comprehensive, preventative measure for maintaining your eye health. It's not just about improving your vision; it's about protecting your eyes and ensuring your overall wellbeing.

Preparing for a Contact Lens Exam

Before a contact lens exam, it's important you prepare adequately. This involves a few simple steps, but they can make a significant difference in the outcome of the exam. First, you should make sure to bring your current prescription glasses or contact lenses. This gives your eye doctor a starting point to evaluate your vision and understand your eye health history.

Next, compile a list of any symptoms or issues you’ve been experiencing related to your eyes. This could include things like dryness, redness, discomfort, or changes in vision. Providing this information can help your eye doctor identify any potential problems or conditions.

Additionally, bring a list of any medications you’re currently taking. Some medicines can affect your vision or interact with contact lenses. By providing this information, your doctor can ensure your safety and comfort when prescribing contact lenses.

What Happens During a Contact Lens Exam

A contact lens exam typically begins with a thorough review of your medical history and any symptoms you're currently experiencing. The eye doctor will also ask about your lifestyle and preferences, such as how often you plan to wear your contact lenses, to determine the best type of lenses for you.

The next step is the vision test, which assesses both your distance and close-up vision. This is followed by a refraction test to determine the correct prescription for your contact lenses. The doctor will place a device called a phoropter in front of your eyes and show you a series of lens choices, asking which one makes your vision clearer.

Next is the keratometry and corneal topography, which measure the curvature of your cornea to ensure a proper fit for your contact lenses. Your eye doctor may also perform a tear film evaluation to check for dry eyes, which can affect how comfortably you can wear contact lenses.

What Happens After the Contact Lens Exam?

After your contact lens exam, your eye doctor will discuss the results with you. If you're getting contact lenses for the first time, they will likely provide a set of trial lenses. These lenses are typically worn for a week or two before a follow-up appointment is scheduled.

During the follow-up appointment, your eye doctor will ask how the lenses have been fitting and feeling. They will also examine your eye health with the contact lenses in place. If everything looks good and you're comfortable with the lenses, your doctor will finalize your contact lens prescription.

A contact lens prescription is not the same as a glasses prescription. It includes additional information such as the size and type of contact lenses that are best for your eyes.

Maintaining Eye Health Post Contact Lens Exam

Once you've received your contact lenses, it's crucial to maintain good eye health. This includes proper lens care and hygiene. Always wash and dry your hands before handling your contact lenses. Clean and store your lenses as instructed by your eye doctor.

It's also important to follow the recommended wear schedule for your lenses. Over-wearing contact lenses can lead to discomfort and eye infections. If you notice any changes in your vision or experience discomfort with your lenses, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor as soon as possible.

Regular eye exams, including contact lens exams, are an essential part of maintaining healthy vision. Remember, your vision is precious, and regular check-ups can help detect any potential issues early, when they're often easier to treat.

Get Clearer Vision with a Contact Lens Exam Today

A contact lens exam is a crucial part of maintaining good eye health, especially for those who wear or are considering wearing contact lenses. It's a thorough process that ensures not only the correct prescription but also the proper fitting of your lenses, ultimately protecting your vision.

If you’re interested in contact lenses, visit Cincinnati Vision Group at our Cincinnati, Liberty Township, West Chester, or Dayton, Ohio, offices. Call (513) 793-5970, (513) 712-5065, (513) 753-4981, (937) 579-0393, or (937) 435-4293 to schedule your contact lens exam today.