Should I Wear My Contacts to an Eye Exam?
The short answer is: generally, no. While it might seem logical to wear your contacts, it's usually best to go to your eye exam without them. This allows your eye doctor to get the most accurate assessment of your eye health and vision. Here's why:
Why You Shouldn't Wear Your Contacts to an Eye Exam:
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Accurate Refraction: Your eye doctor needs to accurately measure the shape of your cornea and the focusing power of your eye (refraction). Contacts temporarily change the shape of your cornea, leading to inaccurate measurements if worn during the exam. An inaccurate refraction can result in an incorrect prescription for glasses or contacts, leading to blurry vision and potential eye strain.
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Detection of Underlying Issues: Wearing contacts can mask certain underlying eye conditions. Your optometrist needs to examine your eyes' natural state to detect any irregularities, such as corneal abrasions, infections, or dry eye disease. Contacts can obscure these problems, delaying diagnosis and treatment.
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Assessment of Corneal Health: Your eye doctor will assess the health of your cornea, the transparent outer layer of your eye. Contacts can hinder this assessment, making it difficult to identify potential issues like corneal thinning or scarring.
What if I Only Wear Contacts?
If you only wear contact lenses and don't have glasses, don't worry! Just follow your eye doctor's instructions. They'll likely tell you when to remove your contacts before your appointment. You might be asked to remove them several hours beforehand or even the night before the exam. Always communicate clearly with your eye care professional about your contact lens wear.
What Happens During a Contact Lens Fitting?
During a contact lens fitting, however, you will need to wear your contacts, or at least a trial pair provided by the doctor. This allows them to assess the fit, comfort, and clarity of the lenses.
What Should I Bring to My Eye Exam?
Aside from avoiding your contacts, remember to bring your current glasses (if you have them) and any relevant information, such as your insurance card. Also, be prepared to discuss any eye-related issues or concerns you may be experiencing.
When Should I Remove My Contacts Before an Eye Exam?
This varies depending on the type of contact lenses you wear. Your eye doctor will provide specific instructions, so it's crucial to follow their guidance. Often, they'll recommend removing them several hours before the appointment, or overnight if they are extended-wear lenses.
Can I Wear My Contacts for a Routine Vision Check-Up?
Generally, no. Even for a routine check-up, accurate measurements are essential for maintaining good eye health. Your doctor needs to assess your eyes without the influence of contact lenses.
In summary, leaving your contacts out for your eye exam allows your eye doctor to perform a thorough and accurate examination, potentially preventing problems and ensuring the best possible vision correction. Always communicate with your eye care professional to understand their specific recommendations.
