For many of us, contact lenses offer a convenient and effective alternative to glasses, granting us the freedom to enjoy clear vision without the frames. However, maintaining optimal eye health while wearing contact lenses requires regular check-ups. In the UK, these contact lens checks are not just a recommendation but a necessity to ensure continued access to your contact lenses. Let’s delve into what a contact lens check involves and why it’s crucial to have them regularly.
What is a Contact Lens Check?
A contact lens check is a specialised eye examination conducted by an optometrist or a contact lens specialist. Unlike a routine eye test, which assesses your overall vision and eye health, a contact lens check specifically focuses on how well your lenses fit and how your eyes respond to them. Here’s what typically happens during a contact lens check:
- Vision Assessment: Your optometrist will check if your contact lenses are still providing you with the best possible vision. They will ask about your visual comfort and any difficulties you might be experiencing, such as blurry vision or discomfort.
- Fit and Comfort Evaluation: The fit of your contact lenses is crucial. Poorly fitting lenses can cause discomfort, dryness, or even damage to your eyes. During the check, the optometrist will ensure that your lenses sit correctly on your eyes and that you’re comfortable wearing them.
- Eye Health Examination: Your optometrist will examine the front surface of your eyes, checking for signs of redness, inflammation, or other issues that might be caused by contact lens wear. They may use a slit lamp, a microscope with a bright light, to get a detailed view of your eyes.
- Review of Cleaning and Care Routine: Proper hygiene is essential for contact lens wearers. Your optometrist will discuss your cleaning and care routine, ensuring you’re following best practices to prevent infections and maintain eye health.
- Prescription Update: Your contact lens prescription can change over time. Regular checks ensure your prescription is up to date, providing you with the correct lenses to maintain clear and comfortable vision.
Why Regular Contact Lens Checks are Essential in the UK
In the UK, it is a legal requirement to have a valid contact lens prescription to purchase contact lenses. This prescription needs to be renewed regularly through contact lens checks for several important reasons:
- Eye Health Monitoring: Your eyes can change over time, and contact lens wear can sometimes lead to complications if not monitored properly. Regular checks help detect and address any issues early, preventing long-term damage.
- Correct Vision Correction: An up-to-date prescription ensures that your lenses provide the best possible vision correction. Wearing lenses with an outdated prescription can strain your eyes and reduce visual clarity.
- Compliance with Legal Regulations: UK law mandates that you have a valid prescription to buy contact lenses. This prescription typically lasts for one to two years, after which you’ll need a new contact lens check to renew it.
- Optimising Comfort and Fit: As your eyes change, the fit of your contact lenses may need to be adjusted. Regular checks ensure that your lenses remain comfortable and effective.
- Preventing Serious Complications: Issues like dry eyes, infections, or corneal damage can arise from improper contact lens use. Regular check-ups help in identifying and mitigating these risks, ensuring your eyes stay healthy.
Conclusion
Regular contact lens checks are an essential aspect of maintaining both your vision and overall eye health. In the UK, these checks are not only a legal requirement but also a proactive measure to ensure that your contact lenses continue to serve you well. By attending your scheduled contact lens check-ups, you’re taking a crucial step towards safeguarding your eyes and enjoying clear, comfortable vision for years to come.
Remember, your eyes are invaluable, and regular contact lens checks are a small investment towards their long-term health and wellbeing. If it’s been a while since your last check, book an appointment with your optometrist today and keep your eyes in the best possible condition.
