Finding the right contact lens

One can make the right choice of contact lenses by understanding the types of lenses and their own body’s limitations. The other aspect of choice of lenses will depend upon what is the purpose of wearing lenses, correction or cosmetic. The nature of material used will also dictate the choice of lenses. The workplace conditions will also help choose a contact lens. Some people are not recommended to wear a contact lens owing to their immune response or eye conditions. The presence of a trained medical expert is a must in choosing any type of contact lenses.

Making a good choice of contact lenses will definitely take some research. This choice of lenses can be done better if one has an understanding of ones immune response and the nature of contact lenses. The foremost thing that must be done, when one decides to buy a contact lens, is to consult the ophthalmologist. The testing can be done at an eye shop as well, however the eye testing done at an eye care hospital is more detailed and medically certified. The eye check will also help the individual to determine the correct number for the contact lenses; the number means the power of lenses. Once the refractive error of the eyes is known it helps to choose the right power of the lenses.

The ophthalmologist is also equipped with knowledge to test whether the eyes have some allergies with the type of material used in making the contact lenses. Some individuals cannot tolerate the lenses at all and the allergic reactions are really exaggerated, such individuals are recommended to wear glasses rather than lenses. At all times the contact lens should be first worn under medical supervision, since the type of response may not be known. The knowledge of pros and cons, of each type of lens helps to zero down to the best suited for the individual.

There are three major classes of lenses depending upon the material used. The hard lenses, semi soft lenses and the soft lenses are the categories of lenses available for refractive correction. The hard lenses are physically hard than any of the three kinds and are usually least hydrated of all. These lenses have lowest flexibility and are used since they tend to stabilize the refractive error of the individual. Hard lenses are easy to deal with and to clean. The infection rate in hard lenses will be least since the level of hydration is the lowest. The hard lenses suffer from limitation in terms of the number of hours they can be worn (usually 10 hours) and are known to cause irritation to eye.

The semi soft lenses are a type of hard lenses with increased hydration. These semi soft contact lenses can be worn longer than the hard lenses till 12 hours, are more comfortable since they are well hydrated. However there is an increased chance of infection due to increased hydration and may loose grip in extreme weather situations.

The soft lenses are the most popular form of contact lenses; they are very flexible and well hydrated. They can be worn longer than the other two types. Soft lenses are most prone to infections due to highest hydration and hence extreme care has to be taken while storage and handling

Conclusion:

The main considerations while choosing the contact lenses would be ones own eyes, degree of usage, and the nature of the lenses. A good thorough medical check before using the lenses is a must. Hygiene and correct handling will ensure better results.