The average patient takes about two weeks to get used to wearing contact lenses; after all, you’re putting something into your eye when you’ve never done so before. The adjustment period includes some common symptoms, which are only temporary. The guide below explains what to expect during this stage so you can feel prepared.

What to Expect While Starting with Contact Lenses

1. Teary Eyes

The eye naturally produces tears when a foreign object comes into contact with it. It’s a self-defense mechanism, meant to flush the item out. However, your eyes will get used to the presence of the lenses with time and, eventually, stop watering.

2. Itchy Eyes

Instead of tearing up, some patients get dry eyes instead. This comes with a slight burning, itchy sensation and some redness. Try to avoid rubbing your eyes in an attempt to soothe them. Instead, ask your eye doctor for recommendations for eye drops.

3. Minor Irritation

Additionally, you might feel some minor discomfort for the first 15 minutes after putting the contact in, after which it will fade from your awareness. It may come back to your attention if the lens moves around. Try blinking to maneuver it back to the center. If that doesn’t work, remove it and reinsert it.

4. Light Sensitivity

The change to your vision may make you more sensitive to bright lights than normal. This will go away as you adapt to the lens, but you can wear sunglasses to stay comfortable in the meantime.

When you’re ready to make the switch from glasses to contact lenses, the right optometrist can guide you through the transition. Colorado River Eye Care offers everything you need to be fitted with your new custom lenses. They have been serving Bullhead City, AZ, and the Colorado River area for more than 30 years and always keep up-to-date with the latest technology to ensure the highest quality of customer care. Learn more about their services online or schedule your eye exam by calling the clinic at (928) 758-2020.