Contact Lenses: Daily Vs Monthly

When looking at eye care options, optometrists generally include contact lens suggestions. Although the onset of many new brands has provided many options, it also makes for a confusing purchase. There are generally two main categories of contact lenses- daily and monthly. Main differences include pricing, quality, time for use and features.

Prior to considering lens purchases, one should first visit their optometrist. During an appointment sight tests and eye examinations will take place to determine health of the eye and quality of sight. If there are eyesight issues such as near sight, meaning one could see up close, but not further away contacts may be suggested. Generally glasses are the first option, but if eyesight has already deteriorated enough for daily requirements, contacts are generally the best option. The doctor would then fit the patient's eyes and write a prescription for future lenses.

Many offices also include a pharmacy pick up station, or fitting for lens station with a doctor's assistant. Patients can sit with the assistant and go over how to place a contact in the right part of the eye. They usually also cover care, how to clean and properly maintain the contacts. This is where daily versus monthly contacts come in.
Daily contacts are usually disposable, meaning after use consumers can just throw them away. Although many people find this convenient, others consider this option wasteful and sometimes push the time limits by wearing them longer. Unfortunately this temptation is a recipe for poor eye health. Daily contact lenses can dry out much faster and if used past the one day time period, can potentially harm eyes ability to take in oxygen. By trying to stretch the time to see well, the patient is inevitably hurting them more.

There are also monthly contact options, which can be used up to thirty days. These contact lenses are generally thicker than the daily options, as they must withstand a much longer time frame. Keeping these contacts clean are of the upmost importance. All lens owners should thoroughly clean and disinfect contact lenses after each use and close the case tightly as to not allow air inside. Monthly options tend to be a little more expensive, as they are bought for months ahead of time. In the long run, though monthly contacts are a savings in compared to the more convenient daily options.

Every patient is different and no 4 eyes are alike. When considering contact lens options, there are a few things to consider. Daily options that can be thrown away, usually cost more over time but are generally softer and more convenient. Monthly lenses are longer lasting, require a bit more maintenance and can save money in the long run. Whatever the choice, make sure the prescription is from a licensed optometrist and make sure to research all of the options.