Using reading glasses in combination with contact lenses is a practical solution for people who experience presbyopia, a common age-related condition that affects near vision. This approach allows you to enjoy the benefits of contact lenses for distance vision while using reading glasses to help focus on close-up tasks such as reading, computer work, or crafting. Before you start, it’s important to have an up-to-date eye prescription and quality reading glasses that match your near vision needs.
What You’ll Need
- Contact lenses prescribed by your eye care professional
- Reading glasses suited to your near vision prescription
- Contact lens cleaning solution and case (if using reusable lenses)
- A clean, well-lit area for inserting and removing contacts and glasses
- Optional: a mirror to assist with inserting contacts and adjusting glasses
Step-by-Step
- Ensure your hands are clean and dry. Before handling contact lenses or glasses, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid contamination.
- Insert your contact lenses. Follow your eye care professional’s instructions for insertion. Typically, this involves placing the lens on the tip of your finger, checking it is not inside out, and gently placing it onto your eye. Blink a few times to position the lens comfortably.
- Check comfort and vision with contacts only. Make sure your distance vision is clear and lenses feel comfortable before proceeding.
- Put on your reading glasses. Once your contacts are in place, put on your reading glasses. These glasses should have the appropriate magnification for your near vision needs and will help you see objects up close clearly without affecting your distance vision correction.
- Adjust your reading glasses for comfort. Ensure the reading glasses sit comfortably on your nose and ears. They should not interfere with your contact lenses or cause discomfort.
- Use reading glasses only when needed. Wear your reading glasses to focus on near tasks such as reading a book, looking at your phone, or working on a computer. Remove them when you no longer need near vision assistance.
- Remove reading glasses when done. Simply take off your reading glasses when you switch back to distance tasks.
- Remove your contact lenses at the end of the day. Follow your eye care professional’s instructions for safe removal, cleaning, and storage or disposal of your contact lenses.
Common Mistakes
- Wearing reading glasses over contacts without proper near vision prescription. Using incorrect magnification can cause eye strain and headaches.
- Trying to use reading glasses for distance vision while wearing contacts. This will blur your distance vision and defeat the purpose of wearing contacts.
- Neglecting hygiene before handling lenses or glasses. Dirty hands can introduce bacteria and cause eye infections.
- Forgetting to remove reading glasses when not needed. Wearing reading glasses unnecessarily can cause eye fatigue.
- Not following contact lens care instructions. This can lead to discomfort, infections, or damage to the lenses and eyes.
Tips
- Get an updated eye exam specifically for both contacts and reading glasses. Your prescriptions should be current and tailored for combined use.
- Consider lightweight reading glasses. Thin frames and lenses reduce discomfort when worn over contacts.
- Practice inserting and removing contacts in a well-lit, clean environment. This reduces frustration and risk of contamination.
- Use anti-reflective coating on your reading glasses. This can reduce glare and improve visual comfort during prolonged close work.
- Carry a small cleaning cloth for your reading glasses. Keeping lenses clean ensures clear vision and comfort.
- Be patient when adjusting to the combination. It may take a few days to get fully comfortable wearing contacts and reading glasses together.
Troubleshooting
Problem: Blurry vision even when wearing reading glasses over contacts.
Solution: Double-check that your reading glasses have the correct near vision prescription. If unsure, visit your eye care professional for a precise measurement. Also, ensure your contact lenses are properly fitted and your distance prescription is up to date.
Problem: Discomfort or irritation in eyes after inserting contacts with reading glasses on.
Solution: Remove the reading glasses before inserting contacts to avoid interference. Make sure your lenses are clean and not damaged. If irritation persists, remove contacts and consult your eye care provider.
Problem: Reading glasses slip or feel uncomfortable when worn over contacts.
Solution: Try adjusting the fit of your reading glasses or opt for frames with adjustable nose pads. Lightweight frames can also improve comfort when worn over contacts.
Problem: Frequent headaches or eye strain.
Solution: This could be due to an incorrect prescription for either your contacts or reading glasses. Schedule an eye exam to update your prescriptions. Also, take regular breaks during prolonged near work to reduce eye fatigue.
Problem: Difficulty adapting to wearing both contacts and reading glasses.
Solution: Give yourself time to adjust, as this combination can feel unusual at first. If problems persist, consult your eye care professional about alternative options such as multifocal contact lenses or monovision correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I wear my contacts and reading glasses all day?
- Yes, you can wear contacts for distance vision all day and use reading glasses as needed for near tasks. Just remove your contacts at the end of the day as instructed.
- Are reading glasses over contacts better than multifocal contacts?
- It depends on personal preference and comfort. Some people prefer the simplicity of reading glasses over contacts, while others opt for multifocal lenses to avoid switching glasses.
- Will wearing reading glasses over contacts cause eye damage?
- No, wearing reading glasses over contacts is safe as long as your prescriptions are correct and you maintain good hygiene.
- How do I know if my reading glasses prescription is right when wearing contacts?
- Have an eye exam that includes your contact lens prescription and near vision needs to ensure your reading glasses match your current vision requirements.
- Can I use reading glasses over colored or tinted contact lenses?
- Yes, you can use reading glasses over tinted or colored contacts, but ensure both are comfortable and your vision is clear at all distances.
- What if I experience dry eyes while wearing contacts and reading glasses?
- Dry eyes are common with contact lens wear. Use lubricating eye drops approved for contact lenses and take breaks from screen time. Consult your eye care provider for tailored advice.
Using reading glasses with contact lenses is a flexible and effective way to manage presbyopia without sacrificing the convenience of contacts. With proper care, the right prescriptions, and a bit of practice, you can enjoy clear vision at all distances effortlessly.
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