When it comes to choosing between contact lenses or spectacles, aka glasses, various reasons can make it difficult. Not only is this influenced by your comfort and lifestyle, but your eye health plays a significant role in what you choose. However, while these options have pros and cons, it’s still important to think carefully about your decision and not let it affect your eyes in the long run. Read on if you’re uncertain whether contact lenses or glasses are better for you.

Signs You Need to Get Your Eyes Tested

The first thing you need to be aware of is the health of your eyes before you decide to wear contact lenses or glasses. An eye examination with your local Spec-Savers optometrist through your Affinity Health plan can help determine the type of prescription you need and whether your vision has deteriorated over time. If you’re uncertain about your eye health, these are some symptoms to lookout for:

• Squinting
• Frequent headaches
• Trouble seeing clearly
• Blurry vision
• Double vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Frequent eye strain
• Dry or overly teary eyes
• Needing to hold reading material at a different distance than usual

How to Choose What’s Best for Your Eye Health

Pros of Wearing Glasses

1. Ease of use: Glasses require minimal maintenance. Unlike contact lenses, you don’t have to worry about inserting, removing, or cleaning them daily.
2. Lower risk of eye infections: Contact lenses require careful handling to avoid infections, while glasses sit on your nose and don’t come into direct contact with your eyes.
3. Durability and longevity: Well-maintained glasses can last years, whereas contact lenses need frequent replacement.
4. Cost-effective: In the long run, glasses are often more affordable than continuously purchasing contact lenses.
5. Protection from environmental factors: Glasses shield your eyes from wind, dust, and even harmful UV rays if they have protective coatings.

Cons of Wearing Glasses

1. They can be uncomfortable: You might find glasses heavy or dislike the pressure on your nose and behind your ears.
2. Limited peripheral vision: Unlike contacts, glasses don’t provide full peripheral vision and can distort images at the edges of the lenses.
3. Can fog up or get wet: In humid conditions, glasses can fog up, making it hard to see. Rain and sweat can also bother your vision.
4. Activity limitations: Glasses may not be ideal for sports or outdoor activities, as they can slip, break, or interfere with movement.

Pros of Wearing Contact Lenses

1. Better field of vision: Contact lenses sit directly on your eyes, eliminating distortions and improving peripheral vision.
2. Ideal for active lifestyles: Athletes and active individuals often prefer contact lenses because they stay in place and don’t interfere with movement.
3. Aesthetic appeal: Contact lenses don’t alter your appearance, allowing you to go glasses-free.
4. Compatibility with sunglasses & safety goggles: Unlike glasses, contact lenses can be worn with any pair of sunglasses or protective eyewear.
5. Flexible and advanced options: Contact lenses are available in various types, including coloured lenses, multifocal lenses, and lenses for astigmatism.

Cons of Wearing Contact Lenses

1. Higher maintenance: Contact lenses require regular cleaning and accurate storage to avoid eye infections and discomfort.
2. Risk of eye irritation and infections: Improper handling or prolonged wear can lead to dryness, irritation, or even infections like conjunctivitis.
3. Can be costly over time: Unlike glasses, contact lenses must be replaced regularly, which can add up costs over time.
4. Not suitable for everyone: Some people find contact lenses uncomfortable or struggle with inserting and removing them.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between glasses and contact lenses depends on your lifestyle and personal preferences. In most cases, glasses offer convenience as they are easier to maintain and don’t require daily handling. If you lead an active lifestyle, contact lenses may be a better choice since they are more suited for sports and outdoor activities. Aesthetically, contacts provide a discreet alternative if you dislike how you look in glasses. Regarding cost-effectiveness, glasses are a long-term investment that you only need to change every 24 months unless they’re lost or broken and should be replaced. On the other hand, contact lenses require ongoing purchases. Additionally, glasses might be the healthier option for your vision if you have dry or sensitive eyes.

The decision between contact lenses and glasses is yours to make. While you may have to make some considerations until you decide what’s best for you and your eye health, speaking to your optometrist can also help you make the best choice. Affinity Health makes the choice simple with affordable eye care, allowing you to receive Optometry benefits when you choose between Day-to-Day or Combined plans.