Contact lenses are one of the most convenient and safe methods of correcting vision problems. They are the preferred choice of many people who are uncomfortable with eyeglasses or do not want to go through surgical procedures such as Lasik. Contacts are medical devices which correct vision problems by increasing or decreasing the focusing power of the eyes.
Types of Vision Problems that Can be Corrected by Wearing Contacts
1. Myopia (commonly known as nearsightedness)
2. Hyperopia (commonly known as farsightedness)
3. Astigmatism (distorted vision)
4. Presbyopia (need for bifocals)
Are you a Suitable Candidate for Contact Lens Use?
In order to purchase contact lenses, an individual needs a valid prescription from a licensed medical professional. An optometrist (a doctor specializing in eye-care and vision correction) will need to perform a thorough examination of your eyes and vision issues to evaluate your suitability. The doctor will assess your visual and lifestyle requirements, your eye health, and take all the necessary measurements for the prescription.
Risks Associated With Contact Lens Usage
Contact lenses should be treated like any other medical prescription. Your optometrist will provide you detailed information regarding contact lens usage and care. It is essential that you follow them.
Minor Side-effects:
● Contact Lens-induced Acute Red Eye (CLARE)
● Dryness of eyes
● Eye and/or eyelid inflammation
● Allergic reactions to the contact lens solution
● Minor corneal infections and/or scratches
● Deposits might form on the lenses making them uncomfortable (soft lens types are more susceptible to this issue.)
Major Risks:
Not following proper cleaning habits and neglecting your doctor’s advice will put you and your vision at risk. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control), more than 99 percent of contact lens wearers report at least one risky behavior when it comes to contact lens usage.
● Microbial Keratitis- a rare corneal infection that can lead to blindness or the need for corneal transplant
● Corneal ulcers
The Final Verdict
Contact lenses are worn by millions of people every day. According to the BCLA (British Contact Lens Association), 9% of British adults wear contact lenses. Statistics from the AOA (American Optometric Association) show that 30 million American adults use contact lenses. Contacts are popular and current lens designs are being constantly improved to make them more comfortable and safer.
Contacts are perfectly safe as long as you follow your doctor’s advice and implement proper usage guidelines consistently. The risks associated are greatly minimized by being a responsible contact lens wearer.
