How to Make a Decision When Purchasing Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are designed to help people with vision problems. A properly fitted pair of contact lenses can help someone see well. People who wish to avoid glasses for vision correction may want to use contact lenses. Before you decide to purchase a pair of contact lenses there are many factors you should think about.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with an eye doctor. An eye doctor is called an optometrist. Optometrists specialize in diagnosing and correcting eye problems. Many eyeglass chain stores include an eye exam if you purchase a pair of contact lenses.

• 2

  Understand your prescription. Ask your doctor if you are nearsighted, farsighted or have astigmatism. You should know the numbers on your prescription, including the dioptral value. Those who are nearsighted will have a negative dioptral value. A dioptral value between -1 and -3 is mild. Higher dioptral values indicate greater nearsightedness. A higher dioptral value may need specially made contact lenses that are more expensive.

• 3

  Decide what type of contact lenses you would like to use. In general, contact lenses are worn for varying lengths of time. A person may choose contact lenses that are worn for a single day and then thrown away. Someone else may choose to purchase contact lenses that can be worn for a day or more and cleaned when not on the eyeballs. The type of lenses you choose may depend on your finances, ability to store the lenses when you are not wearing them and your tolerance for routine.

• 4

  Decide if you want a contact lens with a tint or other effects. Contact lenses can be made of clear plastic or they may be colored. Lenses with a tint can change the color of your eyes slightly or completely. You can purchase contact lenses for theatrical use that completely change the appearance of your eyes. A pair of these lenses can make your eyes look bloodshot or resemble a cat's eye.

• 5

  Decide where you would like to purchase the contact lenses. If you are purchasing the lenses for the first time give serious consideration to a store that specializes in fitting lenses. Store employees can help answer any questions you may have as well as make sure that all lenses fit properly. If the lenses feel uncomfortable when used employees can help get to the cause of the problem. If you are an experienced contact lens wearer consider purchasing lenses online. Online purchases can save you money.