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Are high-water-content contact lenses safe?
R P Bhatia1, Kshama Panday, Rashmi Srivastava
1Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India. khama-bhu@rediffmail.com
Annals of Ophthalmology (Skokie, Ill.)
|January 4, 2007
Summary
High-water-content contact lenses can negatively impact the tear film, especially in individuals with low tear secretion. Low-water-content lenses are recommended for patients undergoing Schirmer
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Optometry
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Contact lenses are widely used for vision correction.
- Contact lens performance and patient comfort are influenced by the ocular surface environment.
- Tear secretion plays a critical role in maintaining the tear film and lens hydration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between tear secretion levels and contact lens water content.
- To determine the impact of different water content contact lenses on the tear film.
- To provide guidance on contact lens selection based on tear secretion.
Main Methods:
- Tear secretion was quantified using Schirmer's tests.
- The effect of high-water-content and low-water-content contact lenses on the tear film was assessed.
- Patient outcomes were evaluated in relation to tear secretion levels and lens type.
Main Results:
- High-water-content contact lenses demonstrated a greater compromise of the tear film compared to low-water-content lenses.
- Reduced tear secretion was associated with increased tear film disruption when wearing high-water-content lenses.
- Low-water-content lenses maintained better tear film integrity in individuals with lower tear secretion.
Conclusions:
- Contact lens selection should consider individual tear secretion levels.
- High-water-content contact lenses are not advisable for patients with low or marginal tear secretion.
- Low-water-content contact lenses may offer improved comfort and ocular surface health for individuals with reduced tear production.
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