Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ`s)

Astigmatism is caused when the eye does not focus light evenly. Contact lenses for astigmatism have been available for several years now. Most types of astigmatism can be corrected with contact lenses. Your Contact Lens Optician will take careful measurements of the exact shape of the surface of your eye and your prescription, and decide which type of contact lens will be most suitable for you. Often, due to these precise measurements, a specific lens will need to be ordered for you to try as they are harder to fit exactly to the eye. Even the new, daily disposable soft contact lenses will be available for astigmatic contact lens wearers in the not too distant future!

1. Why is an Eye Examination so important?
   
   
2. How often should I have my eyes examined?
   
   
3. Why do I need an Eye Examination every 2 years if everything is always fine?
   
   
4. Why do I need regular Eye Examinations if I’m diabetic?
   
   
5. I’m diabetic but my vision hasn’t changed. Why do I need an Eye Examination every year?
   
   
6. Am I entitled to my contact lens prescription from my Optician?
   
   
7. I have astigmatism – can I still have contact lenses?
   
   
8. If my contact lens specification has expired, can I still purchase contact lenses?
   
   
9. Is it OK to lick my contact lenses before putting them in?
   
   
10. Is there a high risk of eye infection if I wear contact lenses?
    
    
11. My Contact Lens Optician has told me to only wear my contact lenses for 8 hours, but they still seem fine. Why do I have to take them out?
    
    
12. What is ‘contact lens aftercare’?
    
    
13. Why can’t I use my spectacle prescription to buy contact lenses?
    
    
14. What shall I do if my contact lenses are uncomfortable?
    
    
15. Why do I get a new storage case when I collect my solutions? – The one I’m using is still OK
    
    
16. Why do I still need glasses when I wear contact lenses?