This post was most recently updated on August 7th, 2019
Gas Permeable Contact Lenses
Gas permeable contact lenses are rigid contact lenses that can be used to improve the vision of people who are nearsighted or farsighted. Our older patients may remember when these were the only type of contact lenses available. These lenses were often uncomfortable and could potentially cause unwanted side effects; therefore, many patients do not think very highly of them. However, new rigid contact lens materials are making these lenses a better option than many soft contact lenses. Although there is still a possibility of side effects, these new materials provide a more comfortable fit for patients who suffer from dry eye and allergies. Due to a significant number of patients in Denver, Colorado who suffer from these conditions, we have been recommending these lenses more and more.
Gas Permeable Contact Lenses Improve Vision
Gas Permeable contact lenses are a great option for people who appreciate life with extreme visual detail. The materials used to create these lenses provide improved optics which results in better clarity of vision. Many of our patients who have worn these contacts throughout their life are reluctant to switch to soft contact lenses because they perceive a significant reduction in visual clarity compared to their gas permeable contact lenses.
Gas Permeable Contact Lenses and Astigmatism
Gas permeable contact lenses are a great option for patients who have mild to severe amounts of astigmatism. The reason for this is that astigmatism is primarily caused by an irregularly shaped cornea. The hard contact lens retains its shape and traps tears behind it. The tears then effectively fill in the irregularities of the cornea, which results in more stable vision and improved visual clarity.
Gas Permeable Contact Lenses and Allergy
Gas permeable contact lenses are a great option for patients who suffer from dry eyes and allergies. Soft contact lenses have a tendency to dry out the eye more than gas permeable contact lenses, as well as trap allergens to the surface of the lens. The attachment of allergens causes allergic flare-ups, which can result in continued inflammation even after you have left the environment of the allergen. Imagine being allergic to grass and having to mow the yard. You will experience allergy symptoms while in your yard but they generally go away once you go inside. If pollen sticks to your contact lenses, you are essentially taking the allergen with you, resulting in an inflammatory reaction even after leaving the location of the allergen.
Gas Permeable Contact Lens Cost
Gas permeable contact lenses are generally less expensive than soft contact lenses over a year’s time. They are more expensive per lens initially, but one lens can last a year or longer if cared for properly.
Final Thoughts on Gas Permeable Contact Lenses
Gas permeable contact lenses can be a great option for patients when given a proper chance. They may take more time to fit initially than a soft contact lens, but once the patient adapts, they begin to experience and appreciate the numerous benefits of these lenses.
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