Contact lenses are a highly popular way to correct vision. Millions of people use them every day so they do not have to wear glasses. Both glasses and contacts are popular vision correction methods. However, they both have some drawbacks. You have to carry your glasses around with you at all times. They also cannot be used during certain physical activities. Contacts also come with several risks. Below, you will find the most common risks associated with contact lenses.
Risks Associated With Contact Lenses
Because glasses can be a chore to carry around and contacts come with several risks, blade-free LASIK treatment is a common option to correct your vision. If you are on the fence about LASIK, consider the following risks associated with contact lenses.
Eye Infections
One of the most common risks associated with contact lenses is eye infections. Contact lenses are placed on the surface of your eye. The area is called the cornea, and it is extremely delicate. It can be easily exposed to bacteria and viruses if you are not careful when using your contacts. There are several ways you can contract an eye infection from using contact lenses. This includes poor hygiene, sleeping with your contact lenses in, or reusing old contact solution. Wearing your contact while swimming or showering is also very risky.
Corneal Ulcers
A corneal ulcer is a sore on the cornea of your eye. The cornea is the outer layer of your eye where your contact lens is placed. If you get an infection or injury or wear your contact lenses for too long, you can develop a corneal ulcer. It is highly painful and can lead to several unwanted symptoms. This includes blurry vision, excessive tearing, and sensitivity to light. Corneal ulcers are serious and require immediate medical attention. Contact the top ophthalmologists in Orange County if you think you have a corneal ulcer.
Dry Eyes
Contact lenses can lead to dry eye syndrome. This occurs when your eyes are unable to produce enough tears to maintain their lubrication. This can come with several unwanted symptoms, such as irritated and scratchy eyes. Dry eye syndrome can occur if you wear your contact lenses for too long. It is important to wear them for the recommended amount of time. Contacts that don’t fit can also increase your risk for dry eye syndrome. This can cause redness, discomfort, and blurry vision.
Allergic Reactions
Some people experience allergic reactions when they put in their contact lenses. This can be due to the contact lenses themselves or the solution you use. Allergies can cause unwanted symptoms such as discomfort, itchiness, redness, swollen eyelids, burning, and excessive tearing. Those who experience an allergic reaction should stop using their contact lenses. Contact your eye doctor right away to determine the next steps.
Blade-Free LASIK Treatment
If you no longer want to deal with glasses or contact lenses, consider blade-free LASIK treatment. LASIK is a long-lasting treatment option that dramatically improves your vision. The first step in moving forward with the treatment option is scheduling a consultation. Candidates should be at least 21 years old, in good overall health, and have no existing eye disease. It is also necessary to have had a stable vision prescription for at least one year. Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate, you can move forward with the procedure.
LASIK is a highly effective and safe vision correction procedure. It is fast and smooth, as patients are in and out of the office within two hours. The procedure itself is roughly 10 to 15 minutes per eye. Your eyes are healthy within just a few days. Most patients notice improved vision within just 24 hours. If you are interested in LASIK, contact the team at Advanced Eye Medical to schedule your appointment today!