Understanding Prescription Contact Lens Options

Lots of people in today's society prefer contact lenses over eyeglasses for a variety of reasons. Some reasons are cosmetic, others are because of convenience. No matter why you want to wear contacts, there are a variety of contact lens options available to you. In this article you will learn about the various types of lenses out there so you can best decide which type is right for you. Of course, you will always need to visit your eye doctor for an exam and contact lens fitting before purchasing any kind of lenses.

There are two basic types of contact lenses available: hard lenses, and soft lenses. Hard lenses are made from a gas permeable material that allows oxygen to reach your eyes. Some people prefer them because they are durable, long-lasting and are usually able to correct a variety of different vision conditions. However, most people end up choosing soft lenses. Soft lenses are comfortable, simple to be fitted for, and available in many different varieties.

Disposable contacts are one type of soft lens that many people choose. There are daily disposables, one and two-week disposables, and monthly disposables. The great thing about disposables is that you get to have a fresh, clean pair of lenses when you need them. There's no in-depth cleansing required (such as weekly enzymatic cleaning), and if you rip or lose a lens, you'll have a replacement on hand. You can find disposable lenses for astigmatism, and those designed for people who need bifocals. If you want to enhance or change your eye color, there are a variety of soft colored contact lenses from which you can choose.

Some disposable contact lenses are daily wear, and others are extended wear. With daily wear lenses, you simply take them out at night and store them in a lens case filled with the appropriate contact lens cleaning solution as directed by your eye doctor. Extended wear lenses can be worn overnight, for whatever period is specified in the instructions. For example, there are two week extended wear lenses and thirty-day extended wear lenses.

Some people choose to go with conventional vial contact lenses. These lenses are available from many different companies and are normally replaced yearly. With this type of lens, you will need to perform regular enzymatic cleaning as instructed by your eye care professional. No matter what kind of lenses you think you want, see your eye doctor first. They will determine the prescription contact lens choices that are best for you.

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