MARCH-APRIL , 2023 | THE HEALTH
11
Safe , effective option for vision correction
The risks of wearing contact lenses are low to none as long as you adhere to proper lens care and advise
BY KHIRTINI K KUMARAN
IF you are a first-time wearer of contact lenses ( CLs ), be assured that it is safe . However , they must be recommended by a qualified eye care professional ( ECP ) to suit your eye and vision condition . CLs are considered medical devices and sit directly on the eye ’ s cornea . They must be used and handled with care to maintain good eye health and avoid complications .
Optometrist Sim Wei Kiat , the founder of My Optometry in Cyberjaya , said : “ CLs are safe , but there are various caveats as we will need to look at the overall eye conditions , personal hygiene , lifestyle and visual demand of the wearer .
“ We strongly advise those new to CLs to consult registered and qualified ECPs such as optometrists or contact lens opticians trained in the field .
“ ECPs are trained to examine the eyes and to fit CLs . They can identify and determine if the person is a suitable CL wearer and advise on the CLs materials and wearing modalities .”
GETTING YOUR FIRST CONTACT LENS
Sim said the correct process of getting CLs is to have a comprehensive eye examination . From this , ECPs will better understand the eye ’ s conditions , including prescriptions and ocular history , such as allergies .
“ For example , if the patient has dry eyes and corneal involvements , we will treat the dry eye conditions first before fitting CLs .
“ Therefore , based on the eye examination findings , we can better advise on the type of CLs and wear modality .
“ We will discuss the various types of contact lenses , such as hard lenses , semi-hard or soft lenses . After that , the modalities of the CLs , such as dailies , bi-weekly , monthly or extended wear , is recommended .
He continued : “ After the CLs are selected , a fitting process will be carried out by looking at the performance of the lenses on the eyes under a microscope . The comfort and vision will also be assessed .”
EDUCATING NEW WEARERS
Besides selecting and fitting the CLs , ECPs will educate and advise wearers on the proper CL insertion and removal methods . A proper CL care regime and good habits will also be taught so the CL wearer can enjoy the benefits of CL wear for an extended period .
“ The care regime includes CL cleaning , hand and lid hygiene and being aware of the replacement and follow-up schedule .
“ After they can insert and remove the CLs in our practice , we will dispense the lenses . They are advised to reach out to us if they experience any discomfort , redness , watering , visual disturbance or other problems ,” Sim explained .
He emphasised the importance of CL
ECPs are trained to examine the eyes and to fit CLs . They can identify and determine if the person is a suitable CL wearer and advise on the CLs materials and wearing modalities .” – Sim Wei Kiat
From left : Nuraznira Muhammad , Annie Lau An Nie , Sim Wei Kiat and Nur Faten Amira Affandi .
Tips for new contact lens wearers
• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your contact lenses to prevent the spread of germs .
• Use only the recommended cleaning solution for your contact lenses ; never use tap water or saliva to clean them . Avoid using oil-based products , lotions or hairsprays while wearing contact lenses , as these can damage the contact lenses and cause discomfort .
• Follow the recommended replacement schedule for your contact lenses and never wear them longer than recommended . Overwearing contact lenses can cause eye infections , inflammation or corneal ulcers .
• Never share your contact lenses , as this can lead to the transfer of bacteria and other microorganisms that cause eye infections .
• Avoid wearing your contact lenses when swimming or engaging in water sports , as water can harbour harmful bacteria that can cause eye infections .
• Always store your contact lenses in their lens casing and replace the case every three months . Keep the case clean and dry ; never use saliva to moisten the lenses .
• If you experience discomfort , redness or blurred vision while wearing your contact lenses , remove them immediately and consult your optometrist . wearers having regular eye assessments to reduce the risks of microbial keratitis and vision impairments .
“ ECPs will be able to detect CL-related abnormalities or other eye conditions during the follow-ups such as allergies to new multipurpose solutions , dry eyes and retinopathy .
“ Recommendation can then be made depending on the eye condition by either changing the type and modality of CLs , changing new multipurpose disinfecting solutions , cease CL wear or make a referral to our ophthalmologist colleagues for medical management .”
GOOD QUALITY AND WIDE RANGE OF CONTACT LENSES
Sim shared his satisfaction with partnering Johnson & Johnson Vision Care ( J & J Vision Care ).
“ They support us with good quality and a wide range of CLs through their R & D .
“ With the wide range of parameters , new technologies , and materials of ACUVUE lenses , we can fit more customers and recommend better lenses .
“ Their support in providing a CLs fit set allows us to fit our customers more efficiently and make the fitting process enjoyable for both the customers and us .
“ ACUVUE wearers can also be at ease knowing that the lenses are safe as the silicon hydrogel lenses provide high oxygen and are supported with the latest technology .”
He added : “ New CL wearers also respond positively to ACUVUE lenses as they provide very good comfort and clear vision . Its wide range of dailies , bi-weekly and monthly modality also cater for wearers of different needs .” – The Health
• Regularly visit your optometrist for check-ups and to monitor the health of your eyes .