Having a clear understanding of your contact lens prescription is a crucial aspect of maintaining your eye health. Similar to other medical prescriptions, contact lens prescriptions also have an expiry date. If you’re a new contact lens user or have been using them for a while, being aware of the validity of your prescription could potentially save you both time and money, and most importantly, ensure the well-being of your eyes. In this article, we aim to shed light on the duration of the validity of contact lens prescriptions and the importance of keeping them up-to-date.
So, How Long Is a Contact Lens Prescription Valid?
According to the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act (FCLCA), a contact lens prescription typically remains active for one to two years from the date of issuance. This duration is applicable provided there are no changes in your vision or your overall eye health.
Should there be any changes to your vision or eye health, it may necessitate an update to your prescription. Regular eye check-ups are essential to ensure the accuracy of your prescription and the health of your eyes. It is advisable to reach out to your eye care provider should you notice any discomfort or changes in vision, even if your prescription is still valid.
Understanding the FCLCA’s viewpoint on Prescription Expiry
The Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act, passed by the Congress in 2003, laid down the guidelines for the validity of contact lens prescriptions. The law highlights three primary factors related to prescription expiration:
1. The prescription expiry is dependent on the laws of the state where the eye exam was conducted, provided these laws stipulate a minimum expiration of one year. Exceptions can be made for health-related reasons.
2. In case no state law is applicable, the prescription should remain valid for at least a year from the date it was issued after your eye exam and contact lens fitting. However, for medical reasons, the doctor might require you to have a new exam before the year ends.
3. Lastly, the expiration date can also be decided by the prescribing doctor based on their medical judgment, taking into consideration your eye health.
In essence, the FCLCA makes sure that your prescription is active for at least a year while also allowing doctors to modify the expiration date based on individual health conditions.
Factors Influencing Contact Lens Expiration
Several factors can impact the lifespan of contact lenses:
1. Type of Lens: The longevity of lenses is greatly influenced by the material from which they are made. For instance, soft hydrogel lenses generally wear out more quickly as compared to rigid gas permeable (RGP) or silicone hydrogel lenses, which are made from tougher materials.
2. Usage Frequency: Daily wear lenses endure more wear and tear due to activities such as blinking, cleaning, and handling. Consequently, they may need to be replaced sooner than lenses that are used less frequently.
3. Cleaning and Storage: The method you adopt for cleaning and storing your lenses contributes significantly to their durability. Proper hygiene prevents the accumulation of bacteria or dirt on the lenses, which could result in discomfort or even cause eye infections.
4. Environment: The environmental conditions also play a part. For instance, humid climates might result in moisture buildup on lenses, necessitating more frequent replacements to maintain comfort and clarity.
5. Individual Eye Characteristics: Every individual’s eyes are unique. Factors such as tear production or protein buildup can reduce the usable life of contact lenses. Some people may need to replace their lenses more frequently for the sake of comfort and eye health.
How to Identify if Your Contact Lenses Have Expired?
It’s important to keep track of your contact lenses’ expiration date. However, if you’re unsure whether they are still good to use, there are certain signs to look out for:
1. Discomfort or Irritation: If your lenses start to feel rough or irritating, it’s an indication that they’ve been used for too long. Over time, deposits can build up, or the lenses can lose their original quality.
2. Sudden Blurriness: Old or damaged lenses may affect your vision and cause it to become unclear or blurry. If this happens unexpectedly, it’s time to replace your lenses.
3. Red or Puffy Eyes: Using expired lenses can sometimes lead to infections, resulting in redness or swelling. If your eyes don’t look or feel normal, it’s best to remove the lenses and consult a specialist.
4. Change in Lens Colour: A faded or discoloured tint on your lenses could mean they’re past their usable period. Lenses with visible changes like this are often no longer safe to wear.
5. Dry or Tired Eyes After Use: If your eyes feel dry or strained after wearing your lenses for a while, it might indicate that the lenses have aged beyond their intended use.
To Wrap Up
The proper care and timely replacement of your contact lenses are essential for maintaining your eye health and ensuring clear vision. Proper cleaning, storage, and timely replacement can prevent discomfort and reduce the risk of infections.
For a detailed guide on maintaining your lenses, check out this guide on contact lens care.
Comments are closed for this post.