Contact lenses have revolutionized visual correction, offering an alternative to glasses that’s appreciated by people worldwide. According to a report in 2020, more than 150 million people use contact lenses globally. This contact lenses guide will provide all the essential information about lens care, eye care, and, most importantly, maintenance.
When it comes to the history of contact lenses, this tremendous visual aid device has roots dating back to the early 1500s when Leonardo da Vinci sketched and described several forms of contact lenses. However, the practical realization did not take place until the late 1800s when glass contact lenses were first introduced.
Contact Lenses in Pop Culture
Contact lenses have made notable appearances in movies, popular literature, and other cultural events, adding a dramatic touch to the characters. For example, in the Twilight series, actors wore colored lenses to portray the unique eye colors of their supernatural characters, while in the Matrix trilogy, certain characters are seen with mirrored lenses as part of their persona.
Understanding Types of Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are primarily divided into two categories: soft lenses, made from gel-like, water-containing plastics called hydrogels, and rigid gas permeable lenses, made from a hard plastic that is more durable but less flexible. Soft lenses are the most popular type, accounting for about 90% of lens wear due to their comfortability and ease of adaptation. They also offer variations such as daily disposable lenses, extended wear lenses, toric lenses for astigmatism, and colored contact lenses.
Contact Lens Cleaning and Care
Contact lens care and cleaning are fundamental aspects of maintaining eye health while using contacts. It’s crucial to clean and disinfect lenses every time they are removed to eliminate lens deposits and irritating substances. Using a commercially prepared contact lens solution is recommended over homemade saline solutions for this purpose .
The care and maintenance of contact lenses also involve proper handling and storage. Your lenses should always be applied and removed with clean hands to minimize potential contamination. Lenses should be stored in their dedicated cases, which should also be cleaned regularly and replaced every three months to minimize bacterial growth.
Eye Care While Using Contact Lenses
Eye care with contact lens use is a multidimensional practice. Routine eye checks are mandatory to monitor and maintain eye health. It’s recommended to avoid wearing contact lenses while swimming or showering, as water can contaminate the lens and lead to infections, particularly Acanthamoeba keratitis, a severe and painful corneal infection.
Understanding Types of Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are primarily divided into two categories: soft lenses and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses.
Soft Lenses:
Soft lenses are made from gel-like, water-containing plastics called hydrogels, which are thin and pliable and immediately conform to the front surface of the eye. These lenses are known for their comfort and are now available in several variations.
1. Daily Wear Lenses: These are typically removed and cleaned at night and replaced on a set schedule, usually weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.
2. Disposable Lenses: Designed for short term usage, these are thrown away after a day of use. They are considered convenient and hygienic.
3. Extended Wear Lenses: Made to wear overnight, these can typically be used for up to seven consecutive days before removal for cleaning.
4. Toric Lenses: Designed to correct astigmatism, these lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens to compensate for the uneven shaping of the eye.
5. Colored Contact Lenses: These are available for those who want to change their eye color. They come in a wide variety of colors and effects.
6. Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses: Rigid gas permeable lenses, also known as hard lenses, are more durable and resistant to deposit buildup, and generally give a clearer, crisper vision than soft lenses. They are less initially comfortable than soft lenses but are more breathable, allowing more oxygen to the cornea.
Other Types:
1. Bifocal or Multifocal Lenses: These lenses are designed like bifocal glasses, enabling the correction of both nearsightedness and farsightedness.
2. Orthokeratology Lenses (Ortho-K): These are specifically fitted lenses that reshape the cornea overnight, so no vision correction is needed during daytime hours.
3. Scleral Lenses: Used mostly for people with serious eye conditions, these lenses cover a larger portion of the sclera, or white part of the eye, rather than just covering the cornea.
Each type of contact lens has its benefits and usage, and your eye care professional can guide you in choosing the best one depending on your eyes’ health, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.
Conclusion
Despite the ease and comfort that contact lenses provide, their use should be coupled with diligent care and maintenance routines to ensure eye health isn’t compromised. This contact lenses guide has provided a comprehensive overview for both experienced wearers and those new to the world of contacts.
References:
1. CDC – Contact Lens Health Week 2020
2. NCBI – History of Contact Lenses and Their Materials
3. All About Vision – Contact Lens Fun Facts, https://www.allaboutvision.com/en-in/resources/contact-lenses-fun-facts/
4. American Academy of Ophthalmology – What Eye Care Professionals Would Like You to Know About Contact Lenses, https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/contact-lens-102
5. American Academy of Ophthalmology – Proper Care of Contact Lenses, https://www.aao.org/eye-health/glasses-contacts/contact-lens-care.
Related Searches: frames for glasses, rayban sunglasses men, eye frames for men, contact lenses with power, best computer glasses for men, specs frame for women, best sunglasses brand, fastrack sunglasses for men