Eyeglasses are an easy way to correct vision problems, but they can be inconvenient, especially for people with an active lifestyle. If you're interested in alternatives, like contact lenses, you must schedule an exam with an eye doctor. At East Memphis Optometry in Memphis, TN, we can check your eyes and help you find the best contacts for your needs.
Why You Need an Exam before Contact Lenses
A contact lens fitting is essential for anyone that wants to wear contacts, even if they have a current prescription for eyeglasses. While there's some distance between your glasses and your eye, contacts sit right against the eye. An exam also allows an optometrist to measure your eyes to provide you with contacts with the right fit.
In addition to these factors, an exam will assess the health of your eyes to ensure that you're a good candidate for contact lenses. For example, people with severe allergies or eye conditions like blepharitis may find glasses a better option. In addition, you may need to wear specialty contacts if you have astigmatism or dry eye.
What to Expect during a Contact Lens Exam
During your exam, our eye doctor will measure your cornea and its curve, along with the size of your pupil. These measurements are crucial to finding contacts with the right fit. In addition, contacts can make dry eye symptoms more severe, and the exam will also include a tear film evaluation to confirm your eyes produce enough moisture for contacts.
In addition to taking these measurements, our optometrist will ask you questions about your habit and lifestyle, so they can select the best contacts for your needs. There are many types of lenses, even if you don't need specialty lenses. Popular options include daily disposable lenses and extended-wear contacts.
You'll be given a trial pair of contacts near the end of your exam. You'll be asked to put in and take out these lenses during your appointment, so our eye doctor can confirm you're using them correctly. Then, if the lenses fit well, you can wear them at home and schedule a follow-up appointment.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Optometrist
Contact lenses are comfortable, but you'll need a contact lens fitting before you start wearing contacts. Contact East Memphis Optometry in Memphis, TN, to schedule your exam! We're here to help you! Call our office at (901) 683-4529 to schedule an appointment.
