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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: My optometrist recommended one type of monthly disposable contact lens but I have seen cheaper brands available elsewhere. Can I just buy these ones in my power?
A: No. The contact lens prescribed by your optometrist or contact lens fitter cannot be interchanged with other lenses as most types of lenses come in a number of sizes, curves and materials. The material will influence the oxygen permeability, dryness, surface deposits etc. The curve influences how the lens fits on your eye. Each of these factors are checked when you have your annual contact lens check up and will differ for different lenses. It is possible that you may well be able to wear many different types of daily disposable but the lens must be checked by your eye-care practitioner before you can be issued with a prescription or supply.
Q: Why do I need a contact lens prescription / check up? I have no problems with my lenses, they are clear and comfortable.
A: Although your contact lenses may feel comfortable and your vision may be sharp, you can have problems. Signs of oxygen deprivation or lens binding from a tight lens may have no symptoms at all. Yet if left unmanaged serious problems can develop. During a contact lens check up all aspects of the len fit and function will be assessed and any concerns addressed.
Remember a contact lens is a medical device and as such it’s use should be monitored regularly. In Ireland you must have your lenses checked on an annual basis.
Q: I wear monthly disposable contact lenses but only on an infrequent basis, once or twice a week. My optometrist told me I still need to discard the lenses one month after opening even if I have only worn them five times. Why?
A: Disposable contact lenses are licensed and given approval for a specified duration of use .This commences when they are removed from their sterile packaging. It means that after this advised time, be it two weeks or one month etc, the performance of the lens cannot be guaranteed by the manufacturer. After this specified time the lens may be less resistant to deposits and be more fragile and the visual performance and lens integrity cannot be compromised. It is not your optometrist who dictates when the lenses need to be discarded but the licensing authority for contact lens manufacturers.
Q: Can I use any cleaning solutions for my contacts?
A: There are many different cleaning solutions and regimes available. Some people many have a hypersensitivity to the chemicals in one brand and may need to change to another. Other people may have a problem with excess deposits from their tears sticking to their lenses and may require a solution that targets these deposits specifically. Other people who have non-disposable soft lenses and RGPs may be advised to use certain cleaning regimes to help maximise the lifespan of the lenses. Your optometrist can discuss the options most suitable for you. You should always stick to the solution advised by your optometrist.
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