Contact lenses are medical devices that need the right prescription and proper fitting to support your vision and eye health. If you wear contact lenses, you may find yourself asking whether you really need to schedule an eye exam every year.
Regular contact lens exams and fittings are essential for maintaining your vision and eye health. Annual exams can help monitor changes, allowing your optometrist to detect and address any issues early.
The Importance of Annual Exams
Monitoring Changes in Vision
Our vision is not static. It can change over time due to numerous factors such as age, lifestyle, and health conditions.
An up-to-date prescription supports eye health and comfort, especially for people who wear contact lenses. Annual eye exams keep your prescriptions current, allowing you to see clearly and comfortably.
However, if you notice any changes in your vision, such as blurred vision or difficulty seeing at certain distances, don’t wait! Schedule an exam as soon as possible to correct your vision and address any underlying issues.
Comprehensive Eye Health Assessment
A contact lens exam involves an evaluation of your overall eye health. Your optometrist performs various tests to check for signs of common eye issues like dry eyes or corneal abrasions. Regular monitoring, early detection, and early treatment help preserve your eye health.
You’ll also discuss your lifestyle and vision goals. Your optometrist can recommend specific contact lenses to suit your personal needs and preferences.
Ensuring Proper Lens Fit
An ill-fitting contact lens can lead to discomfort and even long-term damage to your eyes.
Refractive errors occur when the shape of your eyes prevents light from focusing properly on your retina. Each year, the shape and size of your eyes can change, which may affect how well your lenses fit.
Regular exams can confirm that your lenses are still suitable. This helps maintain eye comfort while reducing the risk of complications like corneal damage or infections.
If your lenses no longer fit properly, your optometrist can recommend adjustments or new lenses that better suit your eye shape.
Addressing Lifestyle Changes
Your lifestyle plays a significant role in your eye health. Factors such as increased screen time, new sports activities, or changes in your daily routine can all affect your eyes and your contact lens needs.
During your exam, it’s essential to discuss any lifestyle changes with your optometrist. They can provide recommendations tailored to your situation, helping you choose the most suitable lens options or care routines.
What Happens During A Contact Lens Exam?
Comprehensive Vision Testing
The exam starts with a thorough assessment of your visual acuity. This usually involves reading letters from an eye chart to determine how well you see at various distances. Your optometrist may also perform tests to evaluate how well your eyes work together, including depth perception and color vision assessments.
Eye Health Evaluation
After assessing your vision, your optometrist examines the overall health of your eyes. This involves checking the external and internal structures using specialized equipment.
They look for any signs of eye conditions or diseases. Regular check-ups help detect and address problems early to preserve your eye health and function.
Contact Lens Fitting
Because contact lenses sit directly on your eyes, your optometrist takes precise measurements of your cornea to determine the proper fit. If you already wear contact lenses, they will closely examine how well your contacts fit.
If adjustments are needed, they can recommend specific types of lenses or make necessary changes to your prescription to find the right fit.
Discussing Your Options
Following the examination and fitting, your optometrist can discuss any necessary changes to your prescription or lens type. They explain the pros and cons of different options, allowing you to make informed decisions about your eye care.
This is also an excellent time to ask any questions you may have about your eye health or contact lens care.
The Risks Of Skipping Annual Exams
Some people might feel that they can skip their annual eye exams if they aren’t experiencing any noticeable problems with their vision or comfort. However, many eye issues don’t come with obvious symptoms.
Many eye diseases and conditions can develop silently until they progress and cause lasting damage. Regular exams help catch these issues early to prevent more serious complications down the line.
Additionally, without regular assessments, you may miss out on opportunities to optimize your vision and comfort. Wearing outdated lenses or an incorrect prescription can lead to eye strain, headaches, and even long-term vision problems.
Safeguarding Your Vision and Eye Health
Regular contact eye exams are vital for ensuring your vision remains clear, your lenses fit properly, and your eyes stay healthy. By prioritizing these annual appointments, you invest in your eye health and overall quality of life.
If you’re interested in contact lenses, or if you’re looking to get your routine check-up, contact our team at Insight Vision Care Optometry today. We’re happy to provide personalized care and guidance. Schedule your exam and take the first step toward better eye health today!
