Seeing Clearer, Living Better: Harnessing the Power of Contact Lenses

Author: vincentdavis | Posted: 15.02.2012

Despite their long history, contact lenses only became a favorite in the recent time. Continuous research and development has led to safer and more convenient contact lenses. They have since become favorite alternatives to putting on eyeglasses since they are less fragile. They also help maintain ideal visual span as there are no temple arms blocking peripheral vision.

Contact lenses are developed to treat the usual optical disorders like myopia, hyperopia and presbyopia. Contact lenses may also be used to deal with astigmatism. Many contact lenses are fashioned to fit patients with specific optical disorders.

The first contact lenses were made from air-blown or bubble glass. From 1888 to the 1930s, this was the only kind of contact lens available. It was only later when more affordable plastic lenses were manufactured. This material is often called acrylic glass because it works as a good alternative to glass for aquariums and lenses for lighthouses and automobile lights.

The first contact lenses were scleral lenses, put over the entire visible part of the eye. The first corneal lenses invented in 1949 provided more comfort, and eventually gained mainstream attention by the 1960s.

In the 1970s, the medical community was alerted by different adverse effects caused by using contact lens. Perhaps the biggest concern then was that contact lenses seemed to stop the flow of oxygen between the conjunctiva and the cornea, the protective film covering,over, coating the sclera and the irises. To address this, gas-permeable lenses were developed. These are also referred to as hard lenses, which a Langley optometrist can recommend.

Hard lenses are often used by people afflicted with keratoconus, an optical problem characterized by a cone-shaped cornea that negatively affects vision. Some people who suffer from keratoconus may use soft hydrogel lenses for a more comfortable fit. Langley optometrists offer silicone hydrogel lenses because of the material's flexibility, attributed to its water content. Some athletes prefer this kind of lens due to the silicone hydrogel's exceptional flexibility.

Like gas-permeable lenses, silicone hydrogel lenses are also oxygen permeable. However, this material can irritate the eyes since it naturally repels moisture. If you suffer from dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, conventional eyeglasses may be more suitable as corrective eyewear. However, a newer kind of silicone hydrogel lenses has also been manufactured; this one remains moist even in dry, air-conditioned places like offices and airliner cabins. You may contact Langley optometry professionals to get an eye exam and get prescription contact lenses.



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