Multifocal lenses contain multiple prescriptions in one lens, allowing you to enjoy clear vision at various distances without needing multiple pairs with varying prescriptions. Whether you're reading a book, driving, or using a computer, these lenses are ideal for people with more than one visual concern.

Adapting to multifocal lenses requires time to adjust, continuous wear in the beginning, and professional guidance. Your eye doctor can perform a contact lens exam to determine the right contacts for your vision needs.

What Are Multifocal Lenses?

Like multifocal lenses in eyeglasses, multifocal contact lenses are designed to provide clear vision at multiple distances. Unlike single-vision lenses that correct only one distance, multifocal contact lenses have 2 or more prescriptions to address near, intermediate, and far vision.

Types of Multifocal Contact Lenses

Multifocal lenses come in 2 types that work differently. Each type has its benefits and the type that suits you will depend on your specific visual needs and lifestyle. Your eye doctor can help you find the right match.

1. Simultaneous Multifocal Contact Lenses

These have specific regions on the lens for near and far viewing. Simultaneous multifocal lenses are classified into two different designs: concentric and aspheric. The concentric design has distance power in the middle of the lens, surrounded by rings of near and distance powers. The aspheric design also has distance power at the center, but presents a gradual transition to intermediate and near powers as you move outward from the middle.

2. Segmented Multifocal Contact Lenses

Similar to bifocal glasses, the segmented multifocal contact lens has distinct sections for different distances with an obvious line of separation. Distance power is at the top and middle zones of the lens, and near power is at the bottom zone.

Who Can Benefit from Multifocal Lenses?

If you have multiple refractive errors, like nearsightedness and farsightedness, multifocal contact lenses can help correct them and provide vision clarity at varying distances. Multifocal lenses can also be prescribed for people with presbyopia and astigmatism.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia is a natural part of aging where the eye's lens loses its flexibility, making it difficult to focus on close objects. Multifocal lenses are an excellent solution for this condition, offering a convenient alternative to bifocal or reading glasses.

Astigmatism

Astigmatism is when the eye has an irregularly shaped cornea (clear front surface of the eye) or lens that prevents light from focusing on the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye), causing blurry or distorted vision at all distances.

Since multifocal contact lenses help you see near, intermediate, and far distances, they can be helpful for people with more than one refractive error.

Tips for Adapting to Multifocal Lenses

Fitting specialty multifocal contact lenses does take more time and expertise than fitting regular contact lenses. For these reasons, here are some tips for adapting to them.

Give It Time

Like adapting to new prescription for glasses, adapting to multifocal lenses can also take some time. Your brain needs to adjust to comfortably processing multiple visual zones. Initial discomfort, dizziness, or blurry vision is normal in the beginning.

Be Patient & Consistent

It might take a few tries to find the right fit and prescription. Don't be discouraged if the first pair isn't perfect. Work closely with your eye doctor to fine-tune your lenses until you achieve optimal vision.

Follow Professional Guidance

Your eye doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to wear and care for your lenses. Follow these guidelines for a smooth transition and to avoid any complications. If discomfort persists, make sure to speak to your eye doctor.

Multifocal Lenses vs Reading Glasses

Reading glasses are effective but can be inconvenient. You constantly have to put them on and take them off. Multifocal contact lenses eliminate this hassle by providing clear vision at all distances, allowing you to go about your day without interruption.

Monovision Contacts

Multifocal lenses provide a natural visual experience, closely mimicking how your eyes naturally function, but if these designs don’t work for you, your doctor might suggest monovision contacts.

Unlike bifocal and multifocal lenses, monovision contacts use two single-vision lenses, one prescribed for near vision and the other for far vision. 

Addressing Common Concerns About Multifocal Lenses

Modern multifocal contact lenses are made from advanced materials that enhance comfort. You can get multifocal contact lenses in soft and rigid gas-permeable materials. While there may be an adjustment period, daily and extended-wear options can provide comfort.

Initial blurriness is common but usually temporary. Your eyes and brain need time to adapt to the new visual zones. Consistent wear and follow-up visits with your eye doctor can help fine-tune your prescription for optimal clarity. 

Because of their complexity, multifocal lenses can cost more than single-vision lenses. But the convenience they provide often outweighs the cost.

Near & Distance Vision Correction

Multifocal contact lenses offer a convenient and seamless way to enjoy clear vision at all distances, enhancing your daily life. If you're tired of juggling different glasses or want to explore a more convenient vision correction option, multifocal contact lenses might be right for you.Book an appointment with River Heights Eye Care today to discuss your options and start your journey towards clearer, more comfortable vision.

The post How to Adapt to Multifocal Contact Lenses? first appeared on River Heights Eye Care.

Contact lenses are a popular choice for vision correction, offering convenience and comfort for millions of people. However, like any medical device, it's essential that users understand their lifespan and how they can be affected over time. 

Unlike food, where an expiration date relates to quality, the expiration date on contact lens packaging is not just a suggestion—it's an essential indicator of the lens's viability and safety. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the expiration date accurately. 

River Heights Eye Care is here to help you determine the right contacts for your needs–we encourage you to start with an eye exam.

Understanding Expiry Dates

Contact lenses typically have an expiry date printed on the packaging. The manufacturer determines this date based on various factors, including the materials used, manufacturing processes, and sterilization methods. It's essential to adhere to this expiry date and only use lenses up to that date. 

The expiry date is a guideline for the lens's effectiveness and safety. Over time, contact lenses can degrade, leading to changes in their physical properties, such as flexibility and oxygen permeability. Using expired lenses can increase the risk of eye infections, discomfort, and reduced vision clarity.

Factors Affecting Shelf Life

Several factors can affect the shelf life of contact lenses, even before their expiry date:

• Storage Conditions: Proper storage is critical for maintaining the quality of contact lenses. Lenses should be stored in their original packaging and kept clean, dry, and in well-ventilated areas, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Handling Practices: Mishandling of contact lenses, such as touching them with dirty hands or using saliva to moisten them, can introduce harmful bacteria and contaminants, shortening their shelf life and increasing the risk of eye infections.
• Frequency of Use: The frequency of lens wear can also impact shelf life. Daily disposable lenses are designed for single use and should not be worn overnight. Extended-wear lenses may have a longer lifespan but require proper care and maintenance.
• Cleaning and Disinfection: Following the recommended cleaning and disinfection routine for reusable lenses is essential for prolonging their shelf life and ensuring eye health. Failure to clean and disinfect lenses properly can lead to microbial buildup and lens deterioration.

Safety Considerations

Using expired or degraded contact lenses can pose significant risks to one's eye health, often leading to conditions that require medical attention, including: 

Eye Infections

When contact lenses expire, the sterility of the lens and the solution it’s stored in can be compromised. This breakdown creates an environment conducive to microbial growth. Bacteria, fungi, or protozoa can contaminate the lens, leading to severe eye infections.

Specific Infections

• Keratitis: Refers to an infection of the cornea. Symptoms can include redness, pain, excess tearing, and blurred vision. Severe cases of keratitis can lead to corneal scarring, which might necessitate a corneal transplant.
• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Refers to inflammation of the conjunctiva—the thin, clear tissue over the white part of the eye. It can result in itchiness, redness, discharge, and a gritty feeling in the eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be caused by the use of contaminated lenses.

Corneal Abrasions

• Deterioration Impact: Over time, the smooth surface of contact lenses can become compromised due to material degradation, leading to the development of tiny cracks or tears on the surface of the lens, making it rough or abrasive.
• Consequences: When these roughened lenses are worn, they can scratch the cornea (corneal abrasion), leading to significant discomfort, sensitivity to light, redness, and a sensation of having something stuck in your eye. Corneal abrasions increase the risk of developing a secondary bacterial infection, adding further complications.

Reduced Vision Quality

• Material and Surface Changes: The quality of contact lenses can deteriorate over time due to changes in the lens material or the accumulation of microscopic deposits that cannot be removed through cleaning. These alterations can directly impact how light is focused by the lens, leading to compromised vision clarity.
• Symptoms and Impact: Individuals using expired or degraded lenses might experience blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, burning or stinging, or even double vision. These visual disturbances not only reduce the quality of life but can also pose safety risks, especially while driving or operating machinery.

Preventive Measures

To avoid these serious risks, it’s essential to adhere to the expiration dates provided by contact lens manufacturers and replace lenses as recommended by an eye care professional. Proper lens care, including regular cleaning and storage in fresh solution, is also vital in maintaining the integrity and safety of contact lenses.

Regular eye exams are crucial for contact lens users. These exams enable early detection and treatment of any potential eye health issues and provide an opportunity for eye care professionals to review and reinforce proper lens care practices.

Safeguarding Your Vision & Eye Health

Contact lenses do have a shelf life, and it's essential to adhere to the expiry date provided by the manufacturer. Factors such as storage conditions, handling practices, and cleaning routines play a significant role in determining the lifespan and safety of contact lenses. 

By following proper care and maintenance guidelines, individuals can ensure the longevity of their lenses and protect their eye health. 

Regular eye exams and consultation with an eye care professional are also crucial for monitoring eye health and ensuring the appropriate use of contact lenses. Remember, when in doubt, always err on the side of caution and replace your lenses as recommended. 

Your eyes deserve nothing less than the best care possible, that’s why we encourage you to book an appointment with us at River Heights Eye Care. 

The post Do Contact Lenses Go Bad? first appeared on River Heights Eye Care.

Several eye conditions may require corrective measures like eyeglasses. And astigmatism is a common refractive error that glasses can also correct. But can you wear contacts to correct astigmatism? There isn’t really a simple yes-or-no answer.

Traditional soft contact lenses aren’t typically recommended if you have severe astigmatism. But some contact lens options, such as toric lenses, scleral lenses, or hybrid lenses, may be an option.

Or your eye doctor could recommend refractive laser eye surgery if you’d prefer to avoid eyeglasses or contacts altogether. But a comprehensive eye exam is the first step because your optometrist has to review your overall eye health and other factors before making their recommendation for your needs.

What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common refractive error that many people have to some degree. It’s caused by the cornea, or front surface area of the eye, having an oval or cylindrical shape instead of being round.

This misshapen cornea causes light to refract incorrectly, which makes it difficult for the eye to focus properly. Astigmatism often occurs alongside other refractive errors like near or farsightedness.

There isn’t one answer to why a person might develop astigmatism. There is a small genetic component, but other factors, like pressure on the cornea from the eyelid or injuries, could also cause astigmatism to develop later in life.

But astigmatism typically develops early in life, so kids should get regular eye exams to keep up with any eye or vision changes.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

You may not notice any symptoms if you have mild astigmatism. And your symptoms may vary if you have other eye conditions, such as myopia. But the most common symptoms of astigmatism include:

• Blurry vision
• Squinting to see clearly
• Eye strain
• Headaches
• Low night vision

Correcting Astigmatism

There isn’t a single best way to correct or treat astigmatism. Your eye doctor will make recommendations based on your eye health, vision needs, and lifestyle.

Glasses

Eyeglasses are often the most effective and lowest-risk correction method for refractive errors. The nice thing about prescription glasses is they can correct multiple conditions with one lens. For example, if you have nearsightedness and astigmatism, the lenses can be made to correct both refractive errors.

Contact Lenses

Contact lenses can be a great option for astigmatism, especially for those who play sports or wear protective eyewear for work. Traditional soft contact lenses aren’t typically effective for correcting astigmatism, but a few specialty lenses are available specifically for astigmatism.

Refractive Eye Surgery

Glasses and contacts only correct the vision problems caused by astigmatism. But refractive laser eye surgery may be a good option if you’re looking for a more permanent fix instead of just correction. Your eye doctor can review several types of laser eye surgery with you. Your overall eye health and degree of astigmatism can affect which procedures you’re a candidate for.

Wearing Contact Lenses with Astigmatism

Astigmatism makes fitting contact lenses a bit complicated, but there are some good lens options to help you see clearly without glasses. 

Toric Lenses

Toric lenses are often a great choice for correcting astigmatism because of their unique shape. They’re designed to focus light differently than traditional contact lenses. They are designed to sit on your eye and align specifically with your cornea.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are an excellent option if you’re dealing with chronic dry eyes and want to wear contact lenses. But they can also be a good option for correcting astigmatism because of their unique design.

Scleral lenses are specialty gas-permeable lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the white part of the eye—the sclera. They don’t touch the cornea like other contact lenses. Instead, there is a small pocket of solution designed to allow the light to focus better.

Rigid Gas-Permeable Lenses

Rigid gas-permeable lenses (RGP) are specialty contact lenses made of a rigid, durable material that allows oxygen to pass through to the cornea. They can be an excellent option for correcting astigmatism and come in different styles.  

Hybrid Contact Lenses

Hybrid contact lenses are a type of contact lens that combines features of both rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses and soft contact lenses. The rigid center helps correct astigmatism and provides clear and crisp vision, while the soft outer zone enhances comfort and lens stability. They can be an excellent option for correcting astigmatism and come in different styles.  

Discuss Your Correction Options with Your Optometrist

Astigmatism isn’t typically a complicated eye condition to correct or fix, but it’s important to find the solution that works best for you. The best treatment depends on factors like your eye health, the degree of astigmatism, and your vision needs.

Regular eye exams play an important role in ensuring your prescription is current. If it’s time for you or your child’s eye exam or you’ve been experiencing symptoms of astigmatism, book an appointment with us today. The professional team at River Heights Eye Care can get you in to see one of our optometrists to discuss your concerns.

The post What to Know About Wearing Contacts with Astigmatism first appeared on River Heights Eye Care.

Contact lenses are a popular alternative to eyeglasses, offering a more natural appearance and greater convenience. But are they the right choice for everyone?

Contact lenses offer numerous benefits, from better vision to greater convenience and freedom. However, they also come with some disadvantages that can make them unsuitable for some people.

In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of wearing contact lenses so that you can decide whether they're suitable for your eyes and lifestyle.

Pros of Contact Lenses

There are many advantages to wearing contact lenses:

• The primary advantage of contact lenses is that they provide a more natural, unobstructed view of the world.
• Unlike eyeglasses, which can fog up, slip down, or be affected by reflections, contact lenses stay in place and let your eyes move and see freely.
• They also offer a wider field of view since they're directly in your eye.
• Contact lenses allow you to wear non-prescription sunglasses or participate in sports and other physical activities without worrying about your glasses falling off.
• Another benefit is that many people find contact lenses more comfortable than glasses.
• Modern materials make lenses less likely to dry out or irritate your eyes, and daily disposable lenses are a hygienic option that eliminates the need for cleaning and storing.

Cons of Contact Lenses

Despite their many advantages, contact lenses are not suitable for everyone:

• One potential drawback is the cost. Contact lenses can be more expensive than eyeglasses, especially if you require frequent replacements or custom fittings.
• They also require proper maintenance to prevent infections or other eye problems.
• Contact lenses can cause dry eyes, and if worn for too long, they can lead to discomfort or even injury.
• If you have pre-existing eye conditions, such as allergies or chronic infections, contact lenses may not be the best option.
• Additionally, some people find inserting and removing contact lenses challenging.

Types of Contact Lenses

Various types of contact lenses are available on the market, so you can find one that meets your specific needs.

The most common types are soft contact lenses and gas-permeable lenses.

• Soft contact lenses are a popular option, made from hydrophilic materials that make them comfortable to wear and contour to your eye's shape.
• Gas-permeable lenses are stiffer than soft lenses but offer better vision correction for people with astigmatism or other complex eye conditions.

Specialty Contacts

In addition to regular soft and gas-permeable contact lenses, there are specialty contact lens options for those patients with hard-to-fit or unique eyes.

• Scleral Contact Lenses: If you suffer from keratoconus, an irregularly shaped cornea, dry eye, or other corneal issues, scleral contact lenses can be a boon to your eyesight. Scleral lenses are specialty contacts designed to vault completely over your cornea and rest on the white of your eye. As a result, they offer more comfort than standard contacts and offer better vision-correction results.
• Hybrid Lenses: These lenses offer a hybrid design that combines gas-permeable centre lenses and soft lens surrounds. This unique construction provides crisp optics of rigid gas-permeable lenses while maintaining soft lenses' comfort. The hybrid lens works well for patients with astigmatism because it follows the shape of your eye's natural curve. The central rigid portion corrects astigmatism, while the soft surrounding part improves comfort.
• Multifocal Contact Lenses: Focusing on objects at different distances becomes more challenging as we age. Multifocal contact lenses are an excellent option for individuals with trouble switching focus between distances. These lenses have multiple prescriptions on a single lens to help you see clearly at various distances, from near to far.

How to Choose the Right Contact Lenses

Choosing the right contact lenses depends on your individual needs and preferences. You'll want to start by consulting with your optometrist to evaluate your eyesight with a contact lens exam and determine if contact lenses are safe and suitable for you.

Your eye doctor can also advise you on which type of lenses are best for your specific eye condition, prescription, and lifestyle.

Proper hygiene and lens care protocols are essential to avoid eye infections and other complications. Some people prefer to try out different types of contact lenses before making a final decision, while others succeed with their first pair.

Get Fitted for Contact Lenses

Contact lenses offer an excellent alternative to glasses, with vision correction and enhanced convenience. It’s important that contact lenses are properly fitted to suit your lifestyle and eye health needs.

River Heights Eye Care can help you have a positive experience when it comes to contact lenses. Our team of experienced staff provide comprehensive exams, fittings, and recommendations to help you get the right contacts for your eyes.

Take control of your eyesight today; book an appointment at River Heights Eye Care and speak to one of our team members about the pros and cons of contact lenses.

The post Contact Lenses: Pros and Cons first appeared on River Heights Eye Care.

We know that with an increase in the usage of digital devices, a common complaint is dry eyes related to digital eye strain. But you can also experience dry eyes and irritation from wearing contact lenses. 

Dry eyes can be detected and diagnosed during a routine eye exam. An early diagnosis is crucial to protecting your vision and eye health. Read on to learn more about dry eyes, contact lens-related dry eyes, treatment options, and what contact lenses to wear for dry eyes. 

All About Dry Eyes

Dry eyes, also known as dry eye disease (DED) or dry eye syndrome (DES), is a condition caused by the lack of lubrication in the eye. Either you produce poor quality tears or insufficient tears, affecting your eye comfort and ocular health. 

The tear film should comprise water, mucous, and oil to keep the eyes moist and prevent your tears from evaporating. When there is an imbalance, you can experience dry eye symptoms. 

Symptoms associated with dry eyes include:

• Burning
• Eye pain, strain, & irritation
• Redness
• Blurry vision
• Grittiness
• Watery eyes
• Light sensitivity

There are several causes of dry eyes:

• Age
• Certain medications 
• Systemic Conditions
• Hormones
• Allergies
• Environmental factors
• Eye surgery
• Prolonged screen usage
• Long-term contact lens wear

Contact Lens-Related Dry Eyes

Contact lens discomfort (CLD) from dry eyes is the most common reason for contact lens wearer dropout. So what is contact lens-related dry eyes?

In eyes with healthy tear production, the contact lens sits over the tear film on the cornea (the clear dome on the front of the eye). Lack of tears or poor-quality tears affects this tear film and can lead to increased friction between the contact lens and the eye’s surface, causing discomfort. 

Contact lenses need to absorb tears to remain soft and maintain their shape. When the eyes lack stable, high-quality tears, contacts become less flexible and can cause irritation. Tears keep your eyes healthy and comfortable, so dry eye symptoms often worsen throughout the day because of the eye’s inability to stay hydrated.

Contact lenses can also cause discomfort and dry eyes because of:

• Design
• Material
• Hygiene routine
• Length of time worn

Treatment for Dry Eyes

There’s no cure for dry eyes, but there are treatment options that can help you manage symptoms. Dry eye therapy can include the following:

• Artificial tears
• Medicated eye drops and ointments
• Warm compresses
• Eye masks
• Nutrition and diet adjustments
• Environmental changes

Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes

You may consider giving up your contact lenses because of dry eyes. But before you do that, here are some ways to achieve comfortable, clear vision with contact lenses:

Lens Material

Lens technology has come a long way, with a range of contact lenses available to suit almost everyone. Soft and hard contact lens materials can offer extreme breathability, allowing more oxygen to reach the cornea. Soft hydrogel contact lenses can keep your eyes comfortable longer.  

Daily disposable contacts are also extremely comfortable. Along with convenience, daily contacts help prevent protein buildup, resulting in more comfort without irritation and dryness.

Water Content

High water content in contact lenses can actually dry out your eyes. While they provide adequate moisture at the onset, they absorb more of the tear film. Your eye doctor can determine what lenses can work best for you. 

Lens Size

Most contact lenses sit on the cornea. Scleral contact lenses are specialty contacts that cover the sclera, the whites of the eye. These lenses can work well for people with dry eyes because they create a tear reservoir. 

Lens Solution

If the problem is not with your contacts, it can be your lens solution. Using lens solution with preservatives can irritate or dry your eyes. 

Always use the recommended solution for your contact lenses, or speak to your eye doctor about choosing a different type or brand. 

Measures to Avoid Dry Eyes with Contact Lenses

Here are some steps you can take to help avoid dry eyes when you wear contact lenses:

• Have a contact lens exam and fitting with an optometrist to ensure you try the best lens style and fit for your unique eye needs.
• Only wear high-quality lenses prescribed by your eye doctor.
• Avoid wearing your contact lenses longer than the recommended time.
• Maintain a thorough contact lens hygiene routine based on your contact lens type. 

Dry Eye Relief

If you experience dry eye symptoms, don't be so quick to ditch your contact lenses. The River Heights Eye Care team is here to listen to your concerns and provide a treatment plan. Book an appointment today and get ready to say goodbye to dry eyes.

The post Do Contact Lenses Dry Your Eyes first appeared on River Heights Eye Care.

When you come in for a contact lens exam and fitting, one of the first things we determine is what your eyes need. In the past, contact lenses could only address common refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, but contact lens technology has since advanced in staggering ways. Now more and more people are discovering that they can finally wear contact lenses with comfort and ease.

At River Heights Eye Care, we’ve expanded our contacts selection to include specialty lenses like sclerals and hybrids. However, the type of contact lens you wear depends on what issue is affecting your vision and eye comfort. Today, we’re going to take a look at the difference between these two lenses, compare their advantages and disadvantages, and provide you with a clear picture of what may be best for you.

For advice on addressing your personal needs, be sure to contact our team and book an appointment. Our eye care team will be happy to help you during one of our comprehensive eye exams!

What Are Sclerals & Hybrids?

Our very first step is to define these 2 different types of contact lenses. Specialty contact lenses come with various benefits, but what may be great for one person may not be a good choice for another.

Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral contact lenses have a larger design than traditional contact lenses. Instead of resting on your cornea, scleral contacts sit on the whites (the sclera) of your eyes. Their larger shape allows them to “vault” over your cornea, making them a fantastic choice if you struggle with corneal conditions like keratoconus, corneal scarring, or complications from laser eye surgery.

Scleral lenses may also be a great choice if you have a high refractive error like high myopia, high hyperopia, or high astigmatism. We may also suggest scleral contacts to help you comfortably see while living with dry eyes.

Hybrid Contact Lenses

Hybrid contact lenses combine 2 different materials: a rigid gas-permeable centre with a soft hydrogel skirt around it. While not the same size as scleral lenses, hybrid lenses can also provide comfort and clear vision for people with corneal irregularities, corneal astigmatism, and dry eye.

What Do They Do Differently?

Now it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty: what do these contact lenses do differently from one another? It may seem like they have a lot of advantages in common–especially for providing comfortable, clear vision for patients struggling with corneal issues or dry eye–but there are differences. 

Scleral contacts are well known for being incredibly comfortable to wear for long periods. On top of this, scleral lenses can come in a smaller size, like mini-scleral and semi-scleral lenses. However, sclerals may not provide the same crisp vision that hybrid contacts can provide.

Speaking of hybrid contacts, many people find that even though hybrid lenses can provide sharper vision, it might be more challenging to find a comfortable fit. Hybrid lenses also may not be a great choice if you struggle with lenticular astigmatism.

Addressing Dry Eye

Dry eye is a common problem Canadians face, and cases seem to be on the rise. Both scleral and hybrid contacts have unique properties that make them better for someone with dry eye, but each of these contacts approach the issue differently.

As we mentioned earlier, scleral contact lenses “vault” over and cover your entire cornea, which creates a space between your cornea and contact that helps keep your eyes hydrated. One study found that scleral lenses can also decrease the need for eye drops.

Hybrid contacts feature a hydrogel skirt that may be more comfortable to wear for some patients when managing dry eye symptoms.

Which One is Right For You?

At the end of the day, the only way to truly know if scleral or hybrid contact lenses are right for you is to have a comprehensive contact lens exam and fitting. Our team will work closely with you to determine your issues and how contact lenses can best serve your needs.

We’re ready to see you! Book your appointment today.

The post Scleral vs. Hybrid Contact Lenses: Which is Better? first appeared on River Heights Eye Care.

If you are curious about trying contact lenses, you will need to get a contact lens specific eye exam. A contact lens specific eye exam involves extra measurements not included in a comprehensive eye exam that will allow your optometrist to get a detailed map of your eye and determine the best contact lenses for your daily use.

How are Contact Lens Specific Eye Exams Different?

Comprehensive Eye Exams

A comprehensive eye exam involves various tests used to determine the visual acuity of your eyes. This gives your optometrist an idea of what your current prescription is and can help assess the current state of your eye health. Some of the tests your optometrist will perform are:

• Eye Chart Testing
• Cover Testing
• Retinoscopy
• Refraction and Autorefraction

Contact Lens Eye Exams

Compared to a regular comprehensive eye exam, a contact lens specific eye exam involves additional measurements that will help determine the shape and size of your eye’s surface and what kind of contact lens is best for you. During a contact lens eye exam, you will be able to input your preferences for colour, how often you want to replace your contact lenses, and how hard or soft you want your contact lenses to be.

Additional Measurements for Contact Lens Specific Eye Exams

Cornea Measurements

During a contact lens specific eye exam, a device called a keratometer will analyze light reflections from your cornea, and be used to measure the curvature of your eye’s front surface. Additional computerized measurements may be performed on your cornea by using a corneal topographer. This will give your optometrist precise details about your cornea, and once again involves measuring how your eye reflects light.

Pupil and Iris Measurements

This test is quite simple: your optometrist will use a special ruler or another measuring device with specific pupil and iris sizings to figure out the size and shape of your pupil and iris. This will help choose contact lenses that are the proper size for your eyes and determine what type of coloured contact lenses you can wear if you want them.

Tear Film Evaluation

This test is used to determine if you can sufficiently produce enough tears to keep your contact lenses moist and avoid your eyes drying out. If your eyes are too dry and you cannot produce enough tears, then contact lenses may not be comfortable or safe for you to wear. If you only experience mild dryness, then some special contact lenses exist that will help keep your eyes from completely drying out.

Contact Lens Fit Evaluation

A biomicroscope, or slit lamp, can be used to evaluate the health of your cornea. This apparatus magnifies the view of your cornea, which helps your optometrist determine if you can wear contact lenses without feelings of discomfort. If you already wear contact lenses, this test can help determine any issues that your current lenses are causing to your eyes.

How Often Should You Get a Contact Lens Specific Eye Examination?

Regular Comprehensive Eye Exams

• Ages 19-64: Once every two years
• Ages 65 & over: Once per year
• Children ages 5-18: Once per year

Contact Lens Specific Eye Exams

• If you have just had your first fitting, after a certain trial period recommended by your eye care professional another evaluation will be necessary. If your current contact lenses are bothering you, you can ask your optometrist about switching brands or types of lenses. 
• If your current contact lenses are comfortable, then a contact lens specific eye exam should be performed on an annual basis regardless of age.

What Type of Contact Lenses Should You Get?

Your optometrist will recommend the best contact lenses for the shape of your eyes, but there is some leeway in which you can choose your preferred lenses if it will not harm the health of your eyes. Some of the attributes you can choose from are the softness of the contact lens, the colour of the iris that the contact lens will show, and the desired frequency of disposal/replacement.

If you suffer from an eye condition, a specialty contact lens might be necessary. If you have astigmatism, dry eyes, or keratoconus, then ask your optometrist about what type of specialty contact lenses could help alleviate your specific issues. 

Book an appointment to get more information on contact lenses and contact lens specific eye exams. 

The post Why You Need a Contact Lens Specific Eye Exam first appeared on River Heights Eye Care.

If you have dry eyes, it’s vital to know what contact lens types and brands will serve you best. Read on as we explain the most important considerations for people with dry eyes who want to wear contact lenses, and learn how to choose appropriate lenses for your needs.

Dry Eyes 101: Causes & Symptoms

Dry eyes typically occur for one of two reasons: your eyes either stop being able to produce tears, or they create poor-quality tears that evaporate faster than usual. Poor-quality tears often result from a problem with your meibomian glands, which produce oil that maintains your tear film’s stability.

Potential Risk Factors For Dry Eyes

Many factors may increase a person’s risk of dry eyes or exacerbate their symptoms. These factors include:

• Age (dry eyes become more likely as you get older)
• Biological sex (people who are assigned-female-at-birth are more likely to experience dry eyes)
• Diet (Vitamin A deficiency and omega 3 deficiency are both risk factors)
• Exposure to radiation (often from radiation therapy)
• Complications from laser eye surgery
• Exposure to smoke
• Exposure to low-humidity environments
• Specific medications (including some SSRIs, antidepressants, steroids, and antihistamines)

Some studies also suggest that wearing contacts may be associated with dry eyes. However, specific types and brands of contact lenses exist for people with dry eyes that are less prone to causing symptoms.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

People with dry eyes may experience any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent dryness
• Itchiness in the eye area
• Burning sensations in or near the eyes
• Redness of the eyes or surrounding skin
• Pain in the eyes (often described as “gritty”)
• Ocular fatigue, even when well-rested

Dry eyes can make many everyday visual tasks more difficult, including reading, driving, and working at a computer. It is vital for people who wear contact lenses to choose products that will not increase their risk of developing dry eyes or make current symptoms worse.

How Can Dry Eyes Affect Your Ability to Wear Contacts?

Research into the link between contact lenses and dry eyes remains ongoing, but one study suggests that the materials used in some contacts may play a significant role. Specifically, wearing contact lenses with high water content increased the probability of developing dry eyes.

You might expect lenses with high water content to provide extra moisture and reduce symptoms associated with dry eyes, so why do these lenses seem to do the opposite? The same study suggests that the lenses’ water attracts lipids and proteins from the eye, further compromising the tear film’s stability and potentially dehydrating the lens itself.

However, avoiding contact lenses with high water contact isn’t all you can do to discourage dry eyes. Choosing lenses with specific ingredients may even help you reduce or eliminate symptoms.

What Lenses (and Brands) are Best For Dry Eyes?

Below is our list of recommended contact lenses for people with dry eyes. We’ve categorized these lenses by type, with suggestions for particular brands and products within each section.

Daily Lenses

In general, daily lenses tend to be better for dry eye. Wearing a new pair of contacts every day prevents build-up and the discomfort that comes with it. 

Another advantage is you don’t have to worry about contact lens storage, as you wear a fresh pair every day.

Alcon Dailies Total 1 are water-gradient, one-day contact lenses that help combat dryness while providing you with clear vision.

Soft Lenses

Soft contact lenses are made of soft, flexible plastic. This material allows oxygen to pass through the contact lens to the cornea, creating a more comfortable feeling.

Bausch & Lomb ULTRA contact lenses are a soft contact lens that help provide comfort all day long. These lenses are made with MoistureSeal technology, which helps maintain moisture and prevent dryness for up to 16 hours.

Silicone Hydrogel Lenses

Silicone hydrogel is an absorbent plastic material used to make numerous soft contact lenses. Research suggests that silicone hydrogel contact lenses may cause fewer symptoms associated with dry eyes than standard hydrogel lenses (which have higher water content).

Silicone hydrogel lenses help keep your eyes feeling moisturized by:

1. Transmitting more oxygen
2. Absorbing more water

ACUVUE produces numerous silicone hydrogel lenses suitable for people with mild to moderate dry eyes. The ACUVUE OASYS 1 Day with Hydraluxe technology has an internal wetting agent that may improve optical quality during wear.

Hybrid Lenses

Hybrid contact lenses combine the visual benefits of rigid gas-permeable lenses with the comfort of soft contact lenses. The centre of the contact lens is made of rigid gas-permeable material, while the outer ring is made of a soft lens material.

SynergEyes Specialty Hybrid are one type of hybrid contact lens. These hybrid lenses give the best of both worlds, helping to provide both comfort and crisp vision, particularly for those with astigmatism or irregular eye shapes.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are one type of rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses, which differ from soft contacts by remaining rigid during wear. However, while standard RGP lenses are worn on the cornea like soft contacts, scleral lenses are worn on the sclera instead (the white part of the eye).

Because scleral lenses sit above the cornea, they create space beneath for saline solution to occupy. This reservoir hydrates the eye and has been shown to reduce symptoms associated with dry eyes.

Ask Your Optometrist About Contact Lenses For Dry Eyes

Every pair of eyes is different—otherwise, we wouldn’t have so many options for contact lenses available on the market! However, people at risk for dry eyes (and those who already have them) need to be a little more careful than others when choosing appropriate contact lenses. 

Silicone hydrogel lenses and scleral lenses are often excellent choices, but always consult your eye doctor before committing to new contacts. We’ll use our expert medical knowledge to help you select ideal lenses for your eyes.

The post The Best Contacts For Dry Eyes (Types, Brands, & More) first appeared on River Heights Eye Care.