FAQs

How often should I have my eyes examined?

A healthy person who does not wear contact lenses or glasses and who has no family history of eye disease should have an eye exam every 2 years. If you are an eyeglass wearer or contact lens wearer, it is preferable to have an eye exam once a year.

I wear contact lenses and I need to reorder more lenses. What do I do?

If you were seen at the Student Health Center in the past and had a contact lens evaluation, your prescription is on file. If you call before 4:30 p.m., most contact lens prescriptions will be received the next day.

If you were not seen at the SHC, you must have a valid Rx from your doctor. In most states, including New York, a contact lens prescription is valid for one year. You can fax your prescription to SHC Optometry Services at 212-443-1261.

Why can't I use my eyeglass prescription or order contact lenses?

A contact lens prescription is very detailed (material, water content, base curve, diameter, etc.) The doctor needs to take measurements of your eye and your medical history to determine what type of lens to prescribe. You will also need to return for follow-up visits.

My eyelid is twitching. What can I do?

This is generally harmless. It is usually associated with fatigue and stress. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and place on your eyelid. Massage the lid gently as you soak it.

I have a red, painful lump (sty) on the edge or inside of my eyelid. What should I do?

At the onset, one should begin using warm soaks 4-5 times per day. Use a clean washcloth and soak in water. This should allow the sty to drain on its own. If draining does not occur withing 2-3 days of continuous soaking, make an appointment with our ophthalmologist and an antibiotic will be prescribed. In some cases, a sty must be removed surgically.

My eyes are red and irritated and they were stuck together this morning. What should I do?

If you wear contact lenses, do not put the contact lenses into your eyes. Call Optometry Services (212-443-1260) for an appointment or call Nursing Triage at 212-443-1120.

How long after I order my contact lenses will it take to receive them?

In most cases, your contact lenses will be received the next day.