Vision problems caused by myopia, farsightedness, astigmatism, and early stage cataracts can be corrected with prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. If you’ve never used either before, you may have questions about which to choose. These FAQs from Urban Eyecare in West Des Moines explain more about prescription eyewear to help you make wise choices about your vision.
Are eyeglass and contact lenses prescriptions the same?
Eyeglasses and contact lenses prescriptions are different. This is because eyeglasses sit approximately 12 mm from your eyes, whereas contacts rest directly on your eye surface. You can however, use both, if you desire. You just have to get separate eye exams and prescriptions.
Eyeglasses or contacts? Which should I choose?
For most people, that’s a matter of personal preference. Both glasses and contacts correct refractive errors to improve your vision. Eyeglasses are safe, easy to care for, affordable, and fashionable to suit your personality. Unlike contacts, eyeglasses are capable of adjusting light as it enters your eyes to maximize vision and comfort.
If you don’t want to wear glasses, contacts offer a viable alternative to give you a whole new look. They’re also convenient for participating in sports or other outdoor activities.
Can anyone wear contact lenses?
Contacts are not for everyone. If you have pre-existing eye conditions like dry eye or blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid), for example, you may find contacts uncomfortable or even unsafe to use. People with sensitive corneas may also not adapt well to contacts. Our eye doctor can help you determine if contacts are for you.
Are contact lenses difficult to get used to?
Some contacts are easier to get used to than others. Most people find soft contacts comfortable right away. Rigid gas permeable (RGP) or hybrid contacts, however, may take weeks or longer to adapt to.
What kind of contacts should I choose?
There are numerous types of contacts to suit people’s individual vision needs. Your eye doctor can guide you to the best contacts for you taking into consideration your prescription, budget, and lifestyle. For sharp, clear vision, RGP (hard) contacts may be the best choice for you. If you have astigmatism, we recommend gas permeable or toric contacts to correct your vision. Soft contacts are generally the most comfortable and easy to get used to. Disposable contacts are the most convenient, as they’re worn daily and then discarded, eliminating the need for lens care.
Should I see an eye doctor near me for corrective lenses?
Yes! If you live in Des Moines or the surrounding areas, come to Urban Eyecare, your local “eye doctor near me” for designer eyewear to correct vision problems with astigmatism, myopia, farsightedness, and cataracts. To schedule an appointment, call 515-223-1000 today.