Variations in corneal sensitivity with hydrogel contact lenses

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Optometry
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Contact lenses are widely used for vision correction.
• Hydrogel contact lenses are a popular choice due to their comfort and oxygen permeability.
• Understanding the impact of contact lens properties on ocular surface health is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of hydrogel contact lens water content on corneal sensitivity.
• To compare changes in corneal tactile sensitivity between different lens water percentages.
• To assess the influence of gender and corneal zone on sensitivity changes.

Main Methods:

• Two groups of healthy subjects wore hydrogel contact lenses with either 38% or 55% water content.
• Corneal tactile sensitivity was measured at baseline and at intervals up to 8 hours post-insertion.
• Sensitivity was assessed in central and peripheral corneal zones, and differences between genders were noted.

Main Results:

• Corneal sensitivity decreased in both groups within 8 hours of lens wear.
• The reduction in sensitivity was more pronounced with 38% water content lenses compared to 55% water content lenses.
• Women experienced greater sensitivity changes than men, and peripheral zones were more affected than the central zone.

Conclusions:

• Hydrogel contact lens wear, particularly with lower water content, can transiently decrease corneal sensitivity.
• Corneal sensitivity recovers fully within 4 hours after contact lens removal.
• Factors like lens water content, gender, and corneal location influence sensitivity alterations during contact lens wear.