Contact lenses can correct vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness), farsightedness and astigmatism. More than 20 percent of individuals with vision challenges wear contact lenses. Soft lenses are made from gel-like material and cover the entire cornea. Oxygen-permeable hard lenses are made from rigid plastics.
Many people who wear contact lens experience some degree of discomfort. A few individuals require lens changes or a change of daily habits to adjust to new lenses. A contact lens problem or irritation can develop into a more serious issue if not treated on time.
Some of the most common contact lens problems include discomfort, redness and itching. Sometimes, the problem may be related to the fitting, thickness, or the edge design of the lens. Soft contact lenses require more lubrication to keep them moist, so eyes that are comparatively dry may feel discomfort with these lenses. A lens that is too tight or too loose can also lead to excessive blinking or redness.
In a few cases, an underlying eye disorder not related to the contact lenses can create a problem. Eye allergies, dry eye, conjunctivitis and eyelid disorders are some examples of eye disorders that may interfere with the use of contact lenses. Wearing contact lenses for an extended period of time in the day can cause mild to severe irritation. External factors like poor air quality, low humidity, rain or pollen can be a disadvantage for contact lens wearers.
Contact lens problems also include the accumulation of protein deposits and scratching. A lens case with the correct solution needs to be carried by the wearer during the day in case the lenses need to be removed. Seeing a rainbow around lights indicates swelling of the cornea. The contact lenses should be removed in this case.
Patients with contact lens problems require the help of an experienced eye specialist. A patient should take the proper precautions to avoid many of the problems associated with contact lenses. Sometimes, external eye-wear (progressive lenses etc.) can be prescribed if lenses are causing extreme discomfort or challenges. For more information on some alternative products, please have a look at http://comfort-vision.com/