Myths and Facts About Contact Lenses

About 45 million people in the United States wear contact lenses, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control, which is a pretty clear indication of just how popular they are. Still, even though millions of people have embraced contact lenses to correct their vision problems, plenty of misconceptions surround contacts. And for some people, those misconceptions are preventing them from choosing contact lenses for their own use.

Here at Eye See Ravenswood, we want all our patients to make decisions based on informed opinions, not myths and misconceptions. This list of common myths — along with the actual facts — just might help you dispel a few rumors you’ve heard, so you can make a decision based on real, factual information.

Myth 1: Contact lenses can get trapped behind your eye

Fact: Arguably the most common myth, this is absolutely false. There’s a thin membrane that covers the outer part of your eye and connects to your eyelids, preventing the lens from moving behind your eye. The lens may move out of position, but typically, a few hard blinks can either reposition it or make it fall out, so you can put it back in its proper location.

Myth 2: Contact lenses are uncomfortable to wear

Fact: This one is false because otherwise, 45 million people wouldn’t be wearing them every day. Lenses can feel a little odd when you begin wearing them, but you’ll be surprised how quickly you adjust. And if another issue such as dry eye makes lens wear uncomfortable, there are products you can use to moisten your eyes, so your lenses won’t irritate them.

Myth 3: They don’t make lenses for me

Fact: There was a time when contact lens options were limited, and that meant a lot of people weren’t good candidates. But lenses have evolved significantly over the past decades, and today, there are contact lenses for most types of vision problems — even challenging prescriptions. Even if you were told contacts weren’t a good option for you in the past, it’s worth asking again to see if recently introduced upgrade” make you a good candidate after all.

Myth 4: Contact lenses cause eye diseases

Fact: Contact lenses don’t directly cause eye diseases. Wearing lenses can increase your risk for infections if you don’t clean your lenses properly or you don’t wear them as directed. But as long as you clean and care for your lenses properly and follow the eye doctor’s instructions regarding when and how long to wear them (and disposing of them when they’re worn out), contact lens wear is very safe for your eyes and for your vision.

Myth 5: Caring for contact lenses is difficult and time-consuming

Fact: Today, caring for contact lenses is easier than ever thanks to the plenty of ready-to-use cleaning solutions. Additionally, daily-wear contacts are really easy to care for — you just throw them out at the end of the day.

Myth 6: The lens will get stuck to my eye

Fact: Soft contact lenses can temporarily stick to your eye if they dry out or if you accidentally fall asleep with them in your eyes. But you can easily loosen them with a little saline solution or contact lens solution, so they will slip out with no problem.

Myth 7: It’s too hard to put lenses in and take them out

Fact: Lots of people worry they won’t be able to put their lenses in and remove them, but it really doesn’t take much time at all to adjust. Plus, you’ll have a chance to practice and learn some simple techniques when you come in to pick up your lenses, so you’ll be all ready to do it once you’re home.

Ready to learn more about contact lenses?

Contact lenses can be a much more convenient solution than glasses, and for some people, they can even make you feel more confident in your appearance. No matter what your reason is, there’s a good chance today’s contact lenses will offer a great solution. To learn more about contact lenses or to schedule a contact lens exam at Eye See Ravenswood, book an appointment online today.