Contact Lenses Vs. Glasses

Contact lenses and glasses correct vision problems in adults and children. These corrective lenses help your eyes focus light in the right spot on the retina to see clearly. The strength of your corrective lenses depends on your specific vision problems. Ophthalmologists examine your eyes and write a prescription for glasses or contact lenses. You can decide whether or not you want to wear contact lenses or glasses after weighing the pros and cons of each type of corrective eyewear.

Wear Glasses First

• Ophthalmologists prescribe glasses for children with vision problems or adults who have just been diagnosed with vision problems. Glasses are better for children because they are less likely to clean and care for contact lenses. They have problems sticking their fingers in their eyes, so it is easier to take care of a pair of glasses. You can wear glasses if you are an adult who has never worn corrective lenses. Glasses are easier to care for than contact lenses, only needing to be wiped a few times a day. Contact lenses require more care to prevent bacterial infections or calcium deposits from building up. You can try contacts after wearing glasses for a while; however, if you are a person who doesn't like touching his eyes or may not take care of contact lenses, your best option is wearing glasses.

Wear Contacts for Benefits

• You have numerous benefits if you choose to wear contact lenses instead of glasses. You don't have to worry about contacts fogging up or sliding down your nose when you sweat or participate in sports. You don't have to worry about spots on contact lenses from rain, snow and mist. Contact lenses provide better peripheral vision and a wider field of vision than glasses. Contact lenses adhere to the eyes, so you don't have to worry about them slipping and breaking. Contact lenses and glasses cost about the same, but with contact lenses, you can purchase a pair of non-prescription sunglasses. If you wear glasses, you likely have to purchase prescription sunglasses, which is a hassle because you will be carrying two pairs of eyewear. Women have an easier time putting on makeup when wearing contact lenses.

Have a Pair of Glasses

• You should have a pair of prescription glasses even if you wear contact lenses. You will need them if you develop sinus or eye infections. Wearing glasses during an illness gives your eyes a chance to breathe. Contact lenses, other than hard ones, are made of delicate materials and can tear at times. If this happens, you can wear your glasses until you get a new set of contact lenses. Your ophthalmologist may recommend you get a pair of glasses to wear at night, especially if you look at a computer screen all day. Contact lenses have more advantages than glasses, but glasses still have a place in your life even if you use contacts as your primary vision source.