Contact lenses offer a convenient alternative to glasses, providing vision correction and enhancing lifestyle flexibility for many. However, not everyone finds it easy to switch to contacts. At Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic, we’ve encountered patients facing challenges when it comes to their contact lenses. We highlight some of these challenges below.
1. Dry Eyes. Dry eye syndrome, a condition impacting millions, can make contact lens wear uncomfortable or even unbearable for some. This is due to the reduced tear production or tear film instability, causing irritation and blurry vision. Standard soft lenses may exacerbate this discomfort due to their tendency to absorb the eye’s moisture. Scleral lenses, with their large diameter resting on the sclera and vaulting over the cornea, provide a moisture reservoir that alleviates symptoms of dry eyes, offering both comfort and clear vision.
2. Astigmatism. Astigmatism is characterized by an irregular curvature of the cornea, leading to blurred vision. This condition can complicate contact lens fitting, as standard lenses may not provide the necessary correction or stability. Toric lenses, designed to cater to the specific curve of the eye, and rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses, which maintain their shape over the cornea, are often recommended for individuals with astigmatism, ensuring a more precise fit and clearer vision.
3. Post-Surgical Eyes. Patients who have undergone refractive surgeries like LASIK may find it hard to fit into standard contact lenses due to changes in the cornea’s shape. In these cases, RGPs can be particularly effective. They offer a stable fit and clear vision by compensating for post-surgical irregularities. Similarly, individuals with keratoconus, a progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, may benefit from scleral lenses or hybrid contacts that combine a rigid central zone with a soft peripheral zone for a blend of clarity and comfort.
4. Presbyopia. Presbyopia, the age-related reduction in near vision, presents another fitting challenge, particularly for those wishing to transition from glasses to contacts. Multifocal and bifocal contact lenses offer a solution by providing different lens powers for distance and near vision in one lens. Alternatively, monovision lenses — one for distance vision and the other for close tasks — can be an effective strategy for some patients, though it may take time to adapt.
5. Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC). GPC, an inflammatory reaction causing discomfort and protein deposits on lenses, can complicate contact lens wear. For individuals affected by GPC, daily disposable lenses or RGPs, which have less tendency for protein buildup, may alleviate symptoms and improve comfort.
At Alderwood Optical in Lynnwood, WA, our team is equipped with the knowledge and technology to tackle these hard-to-fit challenges. Understanding the unique needs of each patient and exploring specialized lens options ensure that we provide tailored solutions, blending vision correction with unparalleled comfort.
Navigating the complex landscape of contact lens fitting requires a nuanced understanding of each patient’s specific conditions and preferences. In Bothell, WA, we are committed to leveraging our expertise to enhance the contact lens experience for everyone, regardless of the obstacles presented by hard-to-fit eyes. Call us using the following numbers: (425) 771-8472 (Lynnwood) and (425) 485-0430 (Bothell). You can also fill out our appointment form at your convenience.