The Importance of Regular Contact Lens Exams and Fittings

If you wear contact lenses, you know how much they improve your daily life—offering clear vision without the hassle of glasses. But what many people don’t realize is that contact lenses require more than just an initial prescription. Regular contact lens exams and proper fittings are essential to keeping your eyes healthy and ensuring you’re getting the best possible vision.

Contact Lens Exams: More Than Just a Prescription Check

Unlike a standard eye exam, a contact lens exam is designed to evaluate how your lenses fit your eyes and whether they’re meeting your vision needs. Your eyes change over time, and even if your vision seems fine, your prescription or lens type may need adjustments.

During a contact lens exam, your eye doctor will:

•          Check Your Eye Health: Contact lenses sit directly on your eyes, which means they can impact the health of your cornea and surrounding tissues. We check for any signs of irritation, dryness, or infection.

•          Assess the Fit of Your Lenses: Poorly fitted lenses can cause discomfort, blurry vision, and even long-term damage to your eyes. We ensure your lenses sit properly and provide optimal comfort.

•          Update Your Prescription: Even a slight change in your vision can affect how well you see with contacts. We fine-tune your prescription to keep your vision crisp and clear.

Why Fittings Matter

One size does not fit all when it comes to contact lenses. Your eyes are unique, and finding the right lens is key to both comfort and eye health. Whether you wear soft lenses, rigid gas permeable lenses, or specialty lenses for conditions like astigmatism or dry eye, a proper fitting ensures:

•          Better Comfort: Ill-fitting lenses can lead to irritation, redness, and even corneal damage.

•          Sharper Vision: The right lenses will sit correctly on your eye, reducing blurriness or distortion.

•          Healthy Eyes: Properly fitted lenses allow enough oxygen to reach your cornea, reducing the risk of complications.

When to Schedule a Contact Lens Exam

If you haven’t had a contact lens exam in over a year, it’s time to schedule one. You should also book an appointment if you experience:

•          Red, dry, or irritated eyes while wearing your lenses

•          Blurry vision, even with your contacts in

•          Frequent headaches or eye strain

•          A feeling that your lenses don’t fit as well as they used to

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Today

Your eyes work hard every day, and taking care of them should be a priority. At Watertown Family Eyecare, we’re here to help you maintain healthy vision with personalized contact lens exams and fittings.

If it’s been a while since your last exam, or if you’re experiencing any discomfort, schedule a contact lens exam with Watertown Family Eyecare. Visit our office in Watertown, South Dakota, or call (605) 753- 3937 to book an appointment today.