From Glasses to Contacts: Options for Correcting Myopia

Myopia is a common refractive error that affects the way your eyes focus light. When you have myopia, the light entering your eye doesn't focus correctly on the retina, resulting in blurred distant vision. This occurs when the eyeball is slightly longer than normal or when the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, is too curved.
 

The primary causes of myopia include genetics, excessive near-work activities, and environmental factors like excessive screen time. Symptoms of myopia can include difficulty seeing distant objects clearly, headaches, eye strain, and the need to squint or move closer to see clearly.
 

The Importance of Correcting Myopia

Uncorrected myopia can have significant impacts on your daily life, including challenges with activities like driving, sports, and reading. It can also increase the risk of developing more serious eye conditions, such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts. Correcting your myopia is essential for maintaining good vision, reducing eye strain, and preventing potential long-term eye health issues.
 

Why Consider Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses offer a convenient and effective solution for correcting myopia. Unlike glasses, which sit on the bridge of your nose, contact lenses are placed directly on the surface of your eye, providing a wider field of vision and improved visual acuity. Contact lenses come in a variety of materials, designs, and wearing schedules, making them a versatile option for individuals with myopia.
 

Types of Contact Lenses for Myopia

• Soft Contact Lenses: These are the most common type of contact lenses and are made of a flexible, water-containing material. Soft contacts are generally comfortable, easy to adjust to, and available in a range of prescriptions to correct myopia.
• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: Also known as hard contacts, RGP lenses are made of a firm, durable material that allows oxygen to pass through to the cornea. While they may take some time to get used to, RGP lenses can provide sharper, more stable vision for those with myopia.
• Multifocal Contact Lenses: For individuals with myopia who also require correction for near vision, such as age-related presbyopia, multifocal contact lenses can address both refractive errors simultaneously.
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) Lenses: These specialized contact lenses are worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea, reducing myopia and providing clear vision during the day without the need for daytime contact lenses or glasses.

Consultation with an Optometrist for Contact Lenses

Before transitioning from glasses to contact lenses, it's essential to consult with an optometrist. They will perform a comprehensive eye examination to determine the best contact lens option for your specific needs. This may include evaluating the shape and curvature of your eyes, assessing your tear film quality, and discussing your lifestyle and visual demands.
 

Your optometrist will then guide you through the fitting process, ensuring the contact lenses are comfortable and provide optimal vision correction. They will also provide instructions on proper lens handling, insertion, removal, and care to ensure the longevity and safety of your contact lens wear.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam with Vantage Point Eyes Today

Myopia is a common refractive error that can significantly impact your daily life, but there are effective solutions available. Contact lenses offer a convenient and customizable option for correcting myopia, with a variety of lens types to choose from.
 

By consulting with an experienced optometrist, you can explore the contact lens options best suited to your individual needs and preferences, ensuring clear, comfortable vision and protecting your long-term eye health. Take the first step towards improved vision and embrace the freedom and flexibility that contact lenses can provide.
 

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with one of our experienced optometrist today to discuss your contact lens options for correcting myopia. We are dedicated to providing personalized care and helping you find the best solution for your visual needs. Visit Vantage Point Eyes at our office in Woodbury, Minnesota, or call (651) 504-5901 to book an appointment today.