Should I Wear My Contacts to an Eye Exam?
The short answer is: generally, no. While it might seem logical to wear your contacts, your eye doctor needs to examine your eyes comprehensively, and that's often best done without them. Let's explore why.
Why Shouldn't I Wear My Contacts to My Eye Exam?
Your eye doctor needs to assess the health of your eyes, not just your vision. Contact lenses, even daily disposables, can obscure certain aspects of the eye's surface, making it difficult to diagnose or monitor conditions such as:
- Corneal abrasions or ulcers: These are injuries to the cornea, the clear front part of your eye. Contact lenses can mask these injuries, delaying proper treatment.
- Dry eye disease: Contacts can contribute to or worsen dry eye, and your doctor needs to examine your eyes without the lens interference to accurately assess its severity.
- Infections: Contact lenses can trap bacteria and other pathogens, leading to infections. Your doctor needs a clear view of your eye to detect and treat these effectively.
- Inflammation: Contact lens wear can cause inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane lining your eyelids and covering the white part of your eye). Your doctor needs to see the extent of any inflammation.
What if I only wear my contacts occasionally?
Even if you don't wear contacts regularly, it's still advisable to remove them before your eye exam. The reason remains the same: your doctor needs an unobstructed view for an accurate assessment.
What Happens if I Arrive Wearing My Contacts?
Don't worry if you accidentally arrive at your appointment with your contacts in. Most eye doctors will have you remove them so they can perform a thorough examination. They may provide a solution to clean and store your contacts temporarily.
How Long Should I Remove My Contacts Before My Eye Exam?
This depends on the type of contact lenses you wear. For daily disposables, removing them right before your appointment is usually sufficient. However, for extended-wear lenses, it's best to remove them at least several hours before your appointment to allow your eyes to return to their natural state. Your doctor might offer specific instructions.
What Should I Bring to My Eye Exam?
Besides your insurance information, bringing your current contact lens prescription (if applicable) is helpful. Also, bring a list of any questions you have for your eye doctor.
Do I Need to Wear Glasses to My Eye Exam?
You don't necessarily need to wear your glasses to your eye exam, but it's generally fine to wear them if you prefer. Your doctor will perform the necessary tests with and without your glasses to determine your current prescription.
By removing your contact lenses before your eye exam, you are allowing your doctor to give you the most accurate and comprehensive care, ensuring the health and well-being of your eyes. Remember to always follow your doctor's instructions and recommendations.
