Thinking about switching to contact lenses over eyeglasses? You are not alone. Many people in Paducah, KY turn to contact lenses for their convenience, comfort, and the freedom they offer. Whether you’re a first-time contact lens wearer or have been using them for years, it’s important to understand the different types of lenses, and proper care techniques.
Soft Contact Lenses
Without a doubt, the most popular option for contact lenses are soft contact lenses. They are comfortable right from the start and provide clear vision for people with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Soft lenses come in several varieties:
- Daily Disposable Lenses: You wear these lenses for one day then simply throw them away at the end of the day. These are perfect for people who just want the convenience of new lenses each day.
- Monthly or Bi-Weekly Lenses: These lenses are designed to be worn for longer periods and are typically removed each night for cleaning and disinfecting.
- Toric Lenses: Designed for people with astigmatism, these lenses are shaped to correct the irregular curvature of the cornea and provide clear vision at all distances.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
RGP lenses are almost exactly like soft lenses, but they still allow oxygen to go through the cornea. These lenses tend to provide sharper vision and are especially helpful for people with more complex prescriptions or conditions like keratoconus. They might take some time to adjust to, however, they are more durable than other lenses and give you great clarity.
Extended Wear Lenses
For overnight use, you should look into getting extended wear contacts. These lenses are made from materials that allow more oxygen to pass through to the eye, making them safer for overnight wear. However, not all individuals are suitable candidates for extended wear lenses.
Multifocal Lenses
Multifocal contact lenses are designed to address presbyopia, the age-related condition where near vision becomes blurry. These lenses provide multiple prescriptions within the same lens, allowing for clear vision at both near and far distances. Available in both soft and RGP materials, they offer an excellent alternative to reading glasses for those in Paducah, KY.
Proper Care and Hygiene for Contact Lenses
Taking care of your contact lenses properly is essential to maintaining healthy eyes and preventing discomfort or infections. Follow these key tips to keep your lenses in good condition:
- Wash Your Hands: Ensure your hands are clean and dry before handling your contact lenses. This will help prevent bacteria, oils, and dirt from getting onto your lenses.
- Keep Lenses Clean & Disinfected: Use the right cleaning solution and clean your lenses as your optometrist directs you to. Refrain from using tap water or your own saliva to clean your contact lenses as they can be bad for your eyes.
- Replace Lenses on Schedule: Replace your contacts when instructed and do not wear them longer than your eye doctor instructs. Wearing lenses beyond their intended use can lead to irritation and infection.
- Storage and Handling: Always store your lenses in a clean case with fresh solution when you’re not wearing them. Avoid reusing old solution or storing lenses in water, as this can cause them to dry out or become contaminated.
- Don’t Sleep in Your Lenses: Unless specifically instructed by your optometrist, remove your lenses before sleeping. Sleeping in your lenses deprives your eyes of oxygen and increases the risk of eye infections.
If you live in Paducah, KY and you are interested in getting contact lenses, call Brush Optical today.
