Sunday, June 14, 2009

Contact Lenses : When, Where, why and How ??

 
 
Contact Lenses : When, Where, why and How ?

Some possible reasons to wear contact lenses may be tabulated below.
As most people who use contact lenses would know that eye power is measured in diopters and when the difference between the power of the left and right eye is more than four diopters, a person may experience 'double imaging' while using corrective glasses and contact lenses may be recommended.
When eye power is high, corrective glasses would be very thick. This may reduce the field of vision and contact lenses may be recommended. In these cases, contact lenses may actually help to increase field of vision and improve quality of vision.
In specific cases, lenses can help in stabilizing eye power and prevent further deterioration of eye sight. In these cases contact lenses may be highly recommended.
Some professions like acting, modeling, hospitality industry etc may demand a corrective glass free personal appearance, and contact lenses may be the only solution.

Contact lenses surely improve one's looks and appearance, however certain precautions are necessary for a safe experience.
Make sure you never swim with your lenses on. This can cause an eye infection.
Do not sleep with your lenses on, because the oxygenation process may be hampered. This might result in the lens getting stuck to the cornea, which may damage the lens and the eye. So lenses have to be removed when taking a quick nap or when going to bed for the night. This is an important precaution to be taken for a safe experience.
Do not wear contact lenses longer that the time prescribed. Usually, lenses can be used for a maximum of about 12 to 14 hours a day. Consult your doctor for the ideal time for which you may safely wear them.
Do try to avoid lenses if you are a diabetic as the chances of infection are higher. Consult a doctor if you insist on wearing them.

Contact Lenses do give a boost to your self esteem and improve your looks but you need time and patience to look after them. Do you have what it takes to maintain your lenses?
Do not leave your lenses lying around. When not in use, store them in the appropriate container with the cleaning solution. A dusty atmosphere and chemical fumes may damage your lenses, if they are left uncovered. So use the storage box provided.
Maintain hygiene while handling contact lenses. Wash your hands carefully before touching the lenses.
Daily sterilization of your lens is a must for soft lens users. Sterilization refers to cleaning of the lenses with the prescribed cleaning solution, which are sold along with the lenses. This daily routine will help in preventing eye infections.
Clean the lenses daily only with a cleaner prescribed by your doctor. Regular water must not be used for this, as it is not sterile and may damage the lenses. Damaged lenses will create eye problems.
You may need to change the storage fluid daily. If the cleaning solution or the storage fluid is unclean, or the container is dirty, this may damage the lenses and, in turn, your eyes.
The lenses must settle on the eye properly. If they do not do so, please consult an eye doctor immediately. Do not keep waiting, hoping things will settle down automatically.
In case you experience any sort of pain, watering, redness, discharge, decreasing vision or heaviness, remove the lenses immediately and consult your doctor.
The lenses may need to be changed periodically, depending upon their life span.

These days contact lenses may be worn be all age groups. However, parents may have to take care of the lenses for young children and teenagers need to be educated on the merits, demerits and care that needs to be taken. Bifocal contact lenses may be used by elderly people. Everyone has a chance to look attractive and smart, however it is important to balance eye safety with good looks. With proper care, precautions and intelligent usage, contact lenses can add value to one's appearance and enhance personality. If you have the time and inclination, go for them, after consulting your eye doctor.

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