Contact Lens Exams
Contact lenses were one of the biggest breakthroughs in optometry. Contacts allow you to see clearly without the use of eyeglasses. If you’re interested in contact lenses, you will need to have a contact lens exam. This is to find out if contacts are right for you. These office visits also help to determine which contact lenses are best for your needs.
Here at Eye Care Associates, we’re happy to offer the most trusted contact lens exams in Reynoldsburg, OH. Call us today to make an appointment!
Contact Lens Exams: Brief Overview
A contact lens exam helps optometrists decide if you’re a good candidate for contacts. These professionals will provide various tests to see if contacts are right for you. If they are, your provider will then take certain measurements to find the optimal contact lens prescription for your needs. They will also talk to you about the various types of contact lenses available, helping you decide on the best option for your lifestyle.
What to Expect
Contact lenses are designed to sit comfortably on your cornea, the outer layer of your eye. An improper fit can result in blurry vision, comfort problems, and other issues. In fact, a poor fit can put you at risk of corneal abrasion or infection. This shows why a proper fitting is essential.
Here are the various tests you can expect during a contact lens exam:
Cornea Size and Curvature Test
This test involves the use of an instrument called a keratometer, which looks at how much light reflects off the surface of your eye. This will help your eye doctor understand the base curve of your cornea. Another device called a corneal topographer may also be used, which provides a more accurate measurement.
Pupil or Iris Size Test
Your provider may also run tests to determine the size of your pupil or iris. There are a few different ways to take these measurements. The first option involves holding a ruler or card close to your eye that shows different pupil sizes. Your provider then finds the closest match. Another method consists of holding a pupil gauge near your eye to get an estimate of your pupil size. There are also automated instruments that provide more accurate results.
Tear Film Evaluation
This is a very important test to determine if you can even wear contact lenses. By evaluating your tear film, your provider can find out if you have a dry eye condition. If you do, you may need contacts specifically designed for those with dry eye. However, if the condition is severe, your doctor may suggest avoiding contacts altogether.
Contact Lens Trial Fitting
If your provider decides that contact lenses are right for you, you’ll then have a trial fitting. This involves trying on different types of contact lenses until you find a good fit. You’ll wear each lens for several minutes to see how they interact with your tears and the shape of your cornea.
Once the fitting is complete, you’ll receive your prescription and learn some details about wearing your contacts. Then you’re all set! To get started with a dependable contact lens exam in Reynoldsburg, OH, call Eye Care Associates today!
