Introduction
Contact lenses are a popular choice for vision correction. They are comfortable to wear and provide better vision than glasses. However, if you are new to contact lenses, you might be wondering what some of the terms on your prescription mean. One such term is “BC”. In this article, we will discuss what BC means in contact lenses.
What is BC?
BC stands for Base Curve, which is the measurement of the curvature of the contact lens. The base curve is determined by the shape of the cornea, and it is essential in ensuring the proper fit of the contact lens. An ill-fitting contact lens can cause discomfort, blurred vision, and even damage to the cornea.
How is BC Measured?
BC is measured in millimeters, and it typically ranges from 8.0 to 10.0. The higher the number, the flatter the lens’s curvature, and the lower the number, the steeper the lens’s curvature. Your eye doctor will determine your BC by measuring the shape of your cornea using a keratometer.
Why is BC Important?
The base curve is important because it determines how the contact lens will fit on your eye. A contact lens that is too flat or too steep can cause discomfort, vision problems, and even corneal abrasions. A proper fit ensures that the contact lens sits on the eye’s surface, moves with the eye, and allows oxygen to reach the cornea.
How to Read Your Prescription?
Your contact lens prescription will have a series of numbers and abbreviations. The BC measurement will be listed after the power (SPH) and diameter (DIA) measurements. For example, if your prescription reads “BC 8.5 DIA 14.2 SPH -2.00”, the BC measurement is 8.5 mm.
What Happens If the BC is Wrong?
If the BC measurement is incorrect, the contact lens will not fit properly, causing discomfort and vision problems. An ill-fitting contact lens can cause corneal abrasions and other eye problems. If you experience discomfort or vision problems, consult your eye doctor to ensure that your contact lenses fit properly.
Conclusion
The base curve is an essential measurement in ensuring that your contact lenses fit properly. It determines the curvature of the lens and how it fits on your eye. An ill-fitting contact lens can cause discomfort, vision problems, and even damage to the cornea. Remember to consult your eye doctor if you experience any discomfort or vision problems while wearing your contact lenses.
References:
1. American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021, May 25). What Do Contact Lens Numbers Mean? Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/contact-lens-numbers-mean
2. CooperVision. (n.d.). Lens Basics: Base Curve. Retrieved from https://coopervision.com/eye-health-and-vision/lens-basics/base-curve