Everything You Need to Know About Contact Lenses: Types, Uses, and Complications
- drgunjandeshpande
- Mar 4, 2023
- 7 min read
Hi there!
Contact lenses have become a popular alternative to traditional eyeglasses for correcting vision problems. These thin, curved lenses are placed on the surface of the eye and offer several advantages, including an improved field of vision, reduced visual distortion, and the ability to wear them during sports and other physical activities. However, contact lenses come with their own considerations, including different types, indications, contraindications, use, and potential complications.
In this blog, we will delve into the world of contact lenses, discussing everything from the various types available to the potential complications of their use.
Contact lenses offer a level of convenience and freedom that eyeglasses simply can't match, but they require proper care and attention to ensure optimal safety and effectiveness.
Types of Contact Lenses:
Contact lenses can be classified into two main types based on their material - soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses.
1. Soft Contact Lenses:
Soft contact lenses are made of a gel-like plastic material that is highly flexible and conforms to the shape of the eye. They are the most commonly prescribed type of contact lens, accounting for over 90% of contact lens wearers. Soft lenses come in various forms, including:
a. Daily Disposable Lenses: These lenses are designed to be worn once and discarded, reducing the risk of infection and simplifying lens care.
b. Monthly/ Biweekly Disposable Lenses: These lenses can be worn for up to a month or two before being replaced. They require regular cleaning and disinfection.
c. Extended Wear Lenses: These lenses are designed to be worn continuously for extended hours. They require careful cleaning and monitoring of the eyes.
2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses:
RGP lenses are made of a firm, oxygen-permeable plastic material that allows the cornea to breathe. They provide sharper vision, longer wear time, and are more durable than soft lenses. However, they require a longer adjustment period and may be less comfortable to wear initially.
What are the Indications for using Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses are prescribed to correct a variety of vision problems, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, presbyopia, and more. Let's take a closer look at each of these indications:
Nearsightedness (myopia) - This is a condition where close objects appear clear while distant objects appear blurry. Contact lenses can correct this condition by refocusing light on the retina, allowing distant objects to become clear.
Farsightedness (hyperopia) - This is a condition where distant objects appear clear while close objects appear blurry. Contact lenses can correct this condition by refocusing light on the retina, allowing close objects to become clear.
Astigmatism - This is a condition where the cornea is shaped more like a football than a basketball, causing vision to be distorted. Contact lenses can correct this condition by creating a more uniform surface for the cornea, allowing light to be properly focused on the retina.
Presbyopia - This is a condition that typically affects people over the age of 40, causing difficulty in reading small print and focusing on near objects. Contact lenses can correct this condition with multifocal lenses, which have different prescriptions in different areas of the lens to allow for clear vision at different distances.
Anisometropia - This is a condition where there is a significant difference in refractive error between the two eyes, causing difficulties in visual perception and 3rd dimension. Contact lenses can correct this condition by providing different prescriptions for each eye.
Aphakia - This is a condition where the natural lens of the eye has been removed due to cataract surgery. Contact lenses can correct this condition by replacing the natural lens and providing clear vision.
Irregular cornea - This is a condition where the cornea is misshapen due to a variety of factors, including keratoconus or other corneal disorders. Contact lenses can correct this condition by creating a smooth, uniform surface for the cornea and allowing light to be properly focused on the retina.
Are there any conditions where Contact Lenses should not be used?
While contact lenses are a popular alternative to eyeglasses, they may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may have underlying health conditions or ocular abnormalities that make wearing contact lenses unsafe or uncomfortable. Here are some of the contraindications of contact lenses:
Severe Allergies or Eye Infections: Individuals with severe allergies or active eye infections should not wear contact lenses. Allergies can cause redness, itching, and swelling of the eyes, while infections such as conjunctivitis or keratitis can cause pain, discharge, and vision problems. Wearing contact lenses in these conditions can increase the risk of complications such as corneal ulcers or infections.
Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome: Chronic dry eye syndrome is a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing discomfort, redness, and vision problems. Contact lenses can exacerbate this condition, making it difficult to wear lenses comfortably for extended periods. People with chronic dry eye syndrome may need to use lubricating eye drops.
Corneal Abnormalities or Scarring: Corneal abnormalities such as corneal dystrophy or scarring can affect the shape and clarity of the cornea, making it difficult to fit contact lenses properly. Wearing contact lenses in these conditions can cause discomfort, vision distortion, and corneal abrasions.
Abnormalities of the Eyelids or Tear Ducts: Conditions such as entropion or ectropion, can affect the position and function of the eyelids, leading to excessive tearing or dryness of the eyes. They can also affect the fit and stability of contact lenses, making them uncomfortable or difficult to wear.
Systemic Diseases: Certain systemic diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes can affect the health and function of the eyes, making contact lens wear risky. People with these conditions may be more susceptible to infections, inflammation, and corneal ulcers, which can be exacerbated by wearing contact lenses.
History of Corneal Ulcers or Other Ocular Infections: Such eyes may be more prone to recurrent infections or complications when wearing contact lenses.
Inability to Handle and Care for Contact Lenses Properly: Wearing contact lenses requires proper handling and care to avoid contamination, infection, or damage to the lenses or eyes. People who are unable or unwilling to follow the prescribed lens care regimen may be at increased risk of complications, such as infections or corneal ulcers. It is preferable to not use contact lenses with make up.
Are there any other uses of Contact Lenses apart from a refractive correction?
In addition to correcting vision problems, contact lenses have several other uses:
Cosmetic enhancement - Colored contact lenses can be used to change the appearance of the eyes. This is a popular option for individuals who want to enhance their eye colour or create a dramatic effect for special occasions or performances.
Therapeutic uses - Contact lenses can be used to protect the cornea and aid in the healing of corneal injuries or diseases. For example, bandage contact lenses can be used to protect the cornea after surgery or in cases of corneal abrasions or ulcers.
Sports and recreational activities - Contact lenses provide better peripheral vision and are less likely to fog up or get splattered with water or sweat during physical activities. This makes them an ideal choice for athletes and individuals who engage in outdoor activities.
Improved field of vision - Contact lenses provide a wider field of vision compared to eyeglasses, which can be especially beneficial for individuals who require clear vision for their profession or hobby, such as artists or pilots.
Improved self-esteem and confidence - Many individuals who wear contact lenses report feeling more confident and attractive without the hindrance of eyeglasses. This can be especially true for teenagers and young adults who may be self-conscious about their appearance.
Convenience - Contact lenses are more convenient than eyeglasses in certain situations, such as when travelling, driving, or participating in outdoor activities. They also eliminate the need for carrying a separate pair of prescription sunglasses.
Vision correction for irregular corneas - Contact lenses can be used to correct vision problems caused by irregular corneas, such as those caused by keratoconus or corneal scarring. These lenses are designed to conform to the shape of the eye and provide a more accurate correction than eyeglasses.
However, it is important to use them under the guidance of an eye care professional and to follow proper hygiene and care instructions to minimize the risk of complications.
Complications
While contact lenses are generally safe when used correctly, they can cause complications in some individuals. Know some of the common complications here:
Corneal Abrasions or Ulcers: Corneal abrasions or ulcers are painful sores on the surface of the cornea, which can be caused by trauma, infections, or prolonged contact lens wear. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, discharge, and blurred vision.
Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may develop an allergic reaction to the contact lens solution or the lens material, leading to redness, itching, swelling, and discharge.
Dry Eyes: Contact lenses can exacerbate dry eyes, which can lead to discomfort, irritation, and vision problems. This is because the contact lens can interfere with the natural tear film on the surface of the eye, reducing the amount of lubrication.
Contact Lens-Induced Acute Red Eye (CLARE): CLARE is a sudden onset of redness, pain, and light sensitivity in one or both eyes, which can be caused by bacterial contamination, mechanical trauma, or hypoxia (lack of oxygen).
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC): GPC is an inflammatory condition characterized by the formation of large bumps (papillae) on the inner surface of the eyelids, which can be caused by chronic irritation from contact lenses. Symptoms include itching, tearing, and a foreign body sensation.
Keratitis: Keratitis is a serious infection of the cornea, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Contact lens wearers are at higher risk of developing keratitis due to the prolonged exposure of the cornea to microorganisms. Symptoms include eye pain, redness, discharge, and decreased vision.
Corneal Edema: Corneal oedema is a swelling of the cornea, which can occur due to various factors such as hypoxia, dehydration, or lens tightness. Symptoms include blurred vision, halos around lights, and sensitivity to light.
It is essential to follow proper hygiene and care instructions and to seek medical attention if any symptoms occur. Regular checkups with an eye care professional can help prevent complications and ensure optimal vision and eye health.
In conclusion, contact lenses are a safe and effective option for correcting vision problems and improving quality of life. With advances in technology, contact lenses have become more comfortable, durable, and affordable than ever before. However, it is important to use them properly and follow the recommendations of your eye care provider to prevent complications. If you are considering contact lenses, talk to your eye doctor about which type is right for you and how to care for them to ensure optimal vision and eye health.
Well researched info gunjan!!