March-April. 2026 | The HEALTH

EYE HEALTH

SEEING CLEARLY:

Discover the clarity and comfort of modern contact lenses, designed for every individual’ s vision needs

• Various types of contact lenses are available, tailored to the severity of astigmatism.

• The development of toric contact lenses has significantly improved stability and clarity for patients with astigmatism.

• Gradual adaptation to contact lenses is essential, with eye care practitioners guiding patients through a systematic wear schedule.

The optometrist at I-Care Optometry, Nadiah Qader Alhaddad, offered valuable insights into how these developments have transformed patient care, especially regarding the types of contact lenses available.

ROLE OF CONTACT LENSES

Nadiah discussed the various contact lens options available for individuals with astigmatism, noting that the type recommended often depends on the severity of the condition.

For patients with lower prescription strengths, she frequently recommends daily disposable contact lenses for their hygiene and convenience.“ For me, daily disposable contact lenses are the best because of their hygiene.”

However, she acknowledged a limitation:“ For high astigmatism prescriptions, the maximum for daily disposables is around minus 2.25.”

As a result, patients with higher prescription strengths may need to consider monthly disposables or rigid gas-permeable( RGP) contact lenses for greater stability.

The evolution of toric contact lenses has further refined the management of astigmatism. Nadiah explained:“ As technology became better and better, the design of the contact lens also improved.”

This progress has enhanced contact lens stability, resulting in clearer vision and greater patient acceptance of contact lens use. With increased stability of contact lenses, fitting them has become easier, providing a smoother experience for both the practitioner and the patient.

ASTIGMATISM AWARENESS

Nadiah noted that awareness of astigmatism among patients has risen significantly in recent years. " Astigmatism is very common," she stated, emphasising the importance of early detection through routine eye checks.

This condition can affect individuals across different age groups, from young children to older people. Factors such as genetics and changes in the eye structure contribute

Nadiah Qader Alhaddad to its prevalence; particularly, elderly patients may develop astigmatism due to the natural ageing process of the eye.

In her practice, Nadiah typically recommends glasses as the first treatment option for mild cases.“ If the customer opts for another option, then the second option will be contact lenses,” she explained.

This approach ensures patients find the best balance between their remedy and comfort, particularly since she believes patients should always have a backup option, such as glasses, for days when contact lenses aren ' t worn.

EDUCATING PATIENTS

Transitioning to contact lenses can be a challenge for first-time wearers, which is why education is crucial.

Nadiah emphasised the importance of gradual adaptation, advising:“ I will let them know, maybe just give yourself some time to adjust to this contact lens.”

She suggests a systematic increase in wear time; for example, she recommends starting at two hours on the first day, then progressing to four, and continuing this pattern until they reach a comfortable wear time of about 10 hours. This phased approach helps patients acclimatise and gain confidence in their new eyewear.

Committed to raising awareness of eye health, Nadiah noted that knowledge about eye checks in Malaysia remains limited.

“ The awareness for eye checks is still not to the level that we want,” she said, reinforcing her mission to enhance public understanding of eye care.

She aims to promote comprehensive eye exams and correction methods, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care tailored to their individual needs.- The HEALTH

I-Care Optometry, Putrajaya

2026PP06894