What Happens If Your Contacts Don’t Fit Correctly?

Wearing contact lenses can be a convenient and effective way to correct your vision, but only when they fit properly. Ill-fitting contact lenses can cause discomfort, vision problems, and even long-term damage to your eyes. If you’re experiencing issues with your contacts, it's essential to recognize the warning signs and know when to seek help.
 

Recognizing the Signs of Poorly Fitting Contacts

When your contacts don’t fit correctly, your eyes will often let you know. Some common signs and symptoms include:

  • Persistent discomfort or pain: A constant feeling of irritation, like something is stuck in your eye, could be due to poor fit.

  • Blurry or fluctuating vision: Improper lens curvature or size can impact how the lens sits on your eye, causing vision to change throughout the day.

  • Redness or inflammation: Your eye may become red and irritated due to friction or lack of oxygen.

  • Excessive tearing or dryness: Your eyes might respond to an ill-fitting lens by overproducing tears or drying out entirely.

  • Frequent lens movement or falling out: If the lenses shift when you blink or fall out easily, they’re likely not the right size or shape for your eye.
     

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious issues, such as corneal abrasions or infections. That’s why it’s crucial to get a professional contact lens exam and fitting.
 

When to Schedule a Contact Lens Exam

If you're experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned or it’s been more than a year since your last fitting, it's time to schedule a contact lens exam. Whether you’re a first-time lens wearer or you've been wearing them for years, your eyes can change over time and so should your lenses.
 

Why a Contact Lens Exam and Fitting Is Essential 

Each person’s eyes are unique, and for contact lenses to work effectively and feel comfortable, they must be carefully matched to your eye’s shape, size, and prescription needs. During a contact lens exam, your optometrist will begin by measuring your cornea. Using advanced tools, we determine the exact curvature and diameter of your eye to select lenses that will sit properly on the surface. We also evaluate the quality of your tear film, which helps us understand how well your eyes stay hydrated. This step is important to ensure the lenses remain comfortable throughout the day.
 

In most cases, you’ll also try on a pair of trial lenses. This allows us to assess how well the lenses fit and whether they provide the right level of comfort and clarity. A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to make any necessary adjustments.
 

At Eye Rx in Stone Ridge, our goal is to make sure your lenses are not only effective in correcting your vision but also safe and comfortable for everyday wear.
 

Tips for Better Comfort and Eye Health

Even with a perfect fit, contact lenses require proper care to keep your eyes healthy. Here are a few tips:

  • Always wash your hands before handling your lenses.

  • Stick to your replacement schedule, whether they’re daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses.

  • Use the recommended solution - never rinse with water or saliva.

  • Avoid overwearing your lenses. Give your eyes a break, especially before bed.

  • Don’t ignore discomfort. If something feels off, schedule an exam promptly.
     

Maintaining good lens hygiene and following your optometrist’s guidance can help prevent problems and keep your eyes feeling their best.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Fitting in Stone Ridge, Virginia

Wearing contact lenses should enhance your vision - not cause discomfort or eye problems. If your lenses don’t feel quite right, it’s important to take action rather than wait for symptoms to worsen. A proper contact lens exam and fitting can make all the difference in ensuring your eyes stay healthy and your vision remains clear.
 

Schedule your contact lens exam at Eye Rx and experience the comfort and clarity you deserve. Visit our office in Stone Ridge, Virginia, or call (703) 646- 8002 to book an appointment today. 

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