Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is an optometrist?

A: An optometrist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of visual problems and disorders. They are trained to perform eye exams, prescribe glasses and contact lenses, and diagnose and treat eye diseases.

Q: What services does an optometrist provide?

A: Optometrists provide a range of services, including comprehensive eye exams, vision testing, and the prescription of eyeglasses and contact lenses. They may also diagnose and treat eye diseases, such as glaucoma and cataracts, and provide vision therapy to improve visual skills.

Q: How often should I see an optometrist?

A: It is generally recommended that adults have a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years, depending on their age and overall health. Children and adults with certain risk factors, such as a family history of eye disease or diabetes, may need to visit an optometrist more frequently.

Q: Can optometrists perform surgery?

A: No, optometrists are not trained to perform surgery. If you need surgery to treat an eye condition, your optometrist will refer you to an ophthalmologist, who is a medical doctor specializing in eye surgery.

Contact Lenses

Q: How do I know if contact lenses are right for me?

A: Contact lenses may be a good option for you if you are looking for an alternative to glasses and meet the following criteria:

• You have a stable prescription
• You are able to handle and care for the lenses properly
• You do not have any eye conditions that would make contact lens wear unsafe

If you are interested in trying contact lenses, you should visit your optometrist for a contact lens fitting and evaluation.

Q: How do I care for my contact lenses?

A: Proper care of your contact lenses is important to ensure that your eyes stay healthy and comfortable. Here are some basic tips for caring for your contact lenses:

• Wash your hands before handling your lenses
• Store your lenses in a clean, disinfected lens case
• Follow the recommended wearing schedule for your lenses (e.g. daily wear, extended wear)
• Use the proper disinfecting solution for your lenses
• Replace your lens case every three to six months

Q: Can I sleep in my contact lenses?

A: It depends on the type of contact lenses you are wearing. Some contact lenses, such as daily disposable lenses, are only approved for daily wear and should be removed before sleeping. Other types of lenses, such as extended wear lenses, may be approved for overnight wear, but it is still important to follow the recommended wearing schedule and care instructions provided by your eye care professional.

Q: Can I wear contact lenses if I have astigmatism?

A: Yes, it is possible to wear contact lenses if you have astigmatism. Toric contact lenses, which are designed specifically for people with astigmatism, can correct this type of vision problem. Your eye care professional can help you determine the best type of contact lenses for your needs.

Q: Can I wear contact lenses if I have dry eye?

A: It is possible to wear contact lenses if you have dry eye, but it may require some extra care and attention. Your eye care professional may recommend using lubricating eye drops or a special type of contact lens that can help reduce dryness and discomfort.

Q: How long do contact lenses last?

A: The lifespan of contact lenses varies depending on the type of lenses you are wearing. Some contact lenses, such as daily disposable lenses, are only intended to be worn for one day and should be thrown away after use. Other types of lenses, such as monthly disposable lenses, can be worn for a specified period of time before being replaced. It is important to follow the recommended replacement schedule for your lenses to ensure that you are getting the best vision and comfort.

Glasses

Q: How do I know if I need glasses?

A: If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may need glasses: difficulty seeing objects up close or far away, eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, or double vision. It is important to visit an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam to determine if you need glasses.

Q: Can I wear glasses if I have a strong prescription?

A: Yes, you can wear glasses even if you have a strong prescription. In fact, glasses can be a more comfortable and convenient option for people with strong prescriptions because they can help to correct vision more effectively than contact lenses.

Q: How do I care for my glasses?

A: To care for your glasses, follow these tips:

• Handle your glasses by the frame, not the lenses.
• Clean your glasses daily with a lens cleaning solution and a soft, lint-free cloth.
• Store your glasses in a hard case when not in use to protect them from damage.
• Avoid leaving your glasses in hot or humid places, as this can cause the frames to warp and lenses to be damaged.
• Bring your glasses to an eye care professional for regular cleanings and adjustments.

Q: Can I wear contacts if I wear glasses?

A: Yes, you can wear contacts if you already wear glasses. However, it is important to consult with an Optometrist before switching to contacts. They can determine if contacts are a suitable option for you and can provide you with the necessary guidance on how to properly care for and wear them.

Children’s Vision

Q: How do I know if my child needs glasses?

A: If your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms, they may need glasses: difficulty seeing objects up close or far away, eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, or double vision. It is important to visit an optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam to determine if your child needs glasses.

Q: At what age should my child have their first eye exam?

It is recommended that children have their first eye exam at 3 years old, however they can have their eyes tested as early as 6 months old if signs or symptoms of vision problems occur. After their first eye test, children should have their eyes checked every 1-2 years or as recommended by their optometrist.

Q: How do I choose the right glasses for my child?

A: There are a few factors to consider when choosing the right glasses for your child. First, consider your child’s prescription and make sure that the glasses will correct their vision properly. Next, consider the shape of your child’s face and choose frames that flatter their face shape. Finally, consider your child’s personal style and choose frames that they feel comfortable and confident in.