Choosing the Right Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses: What You Need to Know

Q: Choosing the Right Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses: What You Need to Know

Hello Rong： Silicone materials for glasses have high oxygen permeability but lower water content. <br>There may be an adaptation period for your eyes. <br>If you experience discomfort, it is recommended that you visit an ophthalmologist for an evaluation. <br>There are many facto

Silicone hydrogel contact lenses

I previously wore hydrogel contact lenses with a prescription of -3.50, a diameter of 14.2 mm, a base curve of 8.5, and a water content of 56%.
Even with daily wear, my eyes would still feel dry, and I could only wear them once a week at most.
I found it difficult to adapt to other brands of hydrogel products.
Later, the optical shop recommended trying the silicone hydrogel brand "Miyoko," which has a Dk/t of 150, a water content of 47%, a diameter of 14.1 mm, and a base curve of 8.7.
They mentioned that these lenses would be less likely to cause dryness.

On the first day of trial wear, I wore them for 8 hours without experiencing dryness, but I noticed that my eyes became red with some blood vessels showing right after putting them on.
I didn't remove them immediately, but by the afternoon, my eyes started to feel sore and slightly stinging.
However, they were indeed less dry.
When I asked the staff at the optical shop, they said this was a normal phenomenon and that there is an adaptation period.

The next day, my eyes still felt warm, slightly stinging, and red, which was uncomfortable.
Is this considered normal? Should I continue to try wearing them? I'm unsure where the issue lies.
With so many options for silicone hydrogel contact lenses, how should I choose? Should I focus on Dk/t, base curve, or thickness and diameter? Or should I see an eye doctor to determine which product is suitable for me? I hope the doctor can provide some answers.
Thank you.

Rong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/14

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Rong: Silicone materials for glasses have high oxygen permeability but lower water content.
There may be an adaptation period for your eyes.
If you experience discomfort, it is recommended that you visit an ophthalmologist for an evaluation.
There are many factors to consider when choosing contact lenses; water content and oxygen permeability are just one aspect.
Base curve and diameter are also important considerations, so it is best to have an ophthalmologist assess your needs.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should seek care at a medical facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2017/02/14

More Info

Choosing the right silicone hydrogel contact lenses can indeed be a daunting task, especially when transitioning from traditional hydrogel lenses. Your experience with dryness and discomfort is not uncommon, and it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to a successful fit and comfort level with contact lenses.

First, let’s address your current situation with the silicone hydrogel lenses. Silicone hydrogel lenses are designed to allow more oxygen to reach the cornea compared to traditional hydrogel lenses. This increased oxygen permeability can help reduce dryness and discomfort, which is a common complaint among contact lens wearers. However, it’s essential to note that not all silicone hydrogel lenses are created equal, and individual responses can vary significantly.

You mentioned that you experienced some redness and discomfort after trying the new lenses. While some initial discomfort can be normal as your eyes adjust to a new type of lens, persistent redness, soreness, or a burning sensation is not typical and should not be ignored. It’s crucial to listen to your body; if your eyes continue to feel uncomfortable, it may indicate that the lenses are not the right fit for you, or that you may have an underlying issue such as dry eye syndrome or an allergic reaction to the lens material or the lens solution.

When selecting silicone hydrogel lenses, several factors should be considered:
1. Oxygen Permeability (Dk/t): This is a critical factor in lens comfort and health. Higher Dk/t values indicate better oxygen transmission, which is essential for maintaining corneal health, especially for extended wear.

2. Water Content: While higher water content can enhance comfort, it can also lead to increased dehydration of the lens, particularly in low-humidity environments. Your previous lenses had a water content of 56%, while the new ones have 47%. This difference may contribute to your comfort level, as lower water content lenses can sometimes retain moisture better.

3. Base Curve (BC): The base curve of the lens should closely match the curvature of your cornea. A mismatch can lead to discomfort and poor lens stability. You mentioned a change from 8.5 to 8.7, which is a slight adjustment but could impact fit.

4. Diameter (DIA): The diameter of the lens affects how it sits on your eye. A lens that is too small may not provide adequate coverage, while one that is too large may cause discomfort. You noted a change from 14.2 to 14.1, which is minimal but could still affect comfort.

5. Lens Thickness: Thicker lenses can sometimes feel less comfortable, especially if they do not fit well. However, they may provide better durability.

6. Trial Period: It’s common for new lenses to require an adaptation period. However, if discomfort persists beyond a few days, it’s advisable to consult with your eye care professional.

Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional. They can perform a comprehensive eye exam to assess your eye health, check the fit of the lenses, and determine if there are any underlying issues contributing to your discomfort. They may also recommend specific brands or types of lenses that are better suited to your eyes.

In summary, while silicone hydrogel lenses can offer improved comfort and oxygen transmission, individual experiences can vary. Factors such as Dk/t, water content, base curve, diameter, and lens thickness all play a role in how well a lens fits and feels. If discomfort persists, seeking professional advice is the best course of action to ensure your eye health and comfort.

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