Dealing with Double Vision in Hard Contact Lenses: What to Know - Ophthalmology

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Dealing with double vision, especially when wearing hard contact lenses for the first time, can be a concerning experience. It’s important to understand that your symptoms may be related to the adaptation process that many individuals go through when they start wearing hard lenses. Here’s a detailed explanation of what you might be experiencing and what steps you can take.


Understanding Double Vision with Hard Contact Lenses
1. Adaptation Period: When you first start wearing hard contact lenses, your eyes may need time to adjust to the new lenses. This is particularly true if you are transitioning from soft lenses or from not wearing lenses at all. During this adaptation period, it is common to experience visual disturbances, including double vision or ghosting. This is often due to the way the lenses sit on your cornea and how your brain processes the visual information from each eye.

2. Lens Fit and Prescription: Although your optometrist has confirmed that the lenses are correctly fitted in terms of curvature, power, and movement, it’s still possible that your eyes are not yet accustomed to the specific shape and material of the hard lenses. If the lenses are not perfectly aligned with your cornea, this can lead to visual distortions. It’s crucial to ensure that both lenses are positioned correctly and that your prescription is accurate.

3. Tear Film and Comfort: Hard contact lenses can sometimes disrupt the natural tear film on the surface of your eyes, especially if your left eye is producing more tears than usual. This can lead to blurred vision or double vision. Ensuring that your eyes are adequately lubricated can help alleviate some of these symptoms. You might consider using preservative-free artificial tears to keep your eyes moist.

4. Duration of Symptoms: If the double vision persists beyond the initial adaptation period (which can last from a few days to a couple of weeks), it is advisable to consult your optometrist. They may need to reassess the fit of the lenses or check for any underlying issues that could be contributing to your symptoms.

5. When to Seek Help: If you experience persistent double vision, discomfort, or any other unusual symptoms (such as redness, excessive tearing, or pain), it is essential to return to your optometrist or an eye care professional. They can conduct a thorough examination to rule out any complications, such as corneal abrasions or infections, which may require immediate attention.


Tips for Managing Double Vision
- Give It Time: Allow your eyes some time to adjust to the new lenses. Avoid wearing them for extended periods initially and gradually increase the duration as your comfort improves.


- Practice Good Hygiene: Ensure that you are following proper lens care and hygiene practices to prevent any infections or complications that could exacerbate your symptoms.

- Use Artificial Tears: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, using preservative-free artificial tears can help maintain moisture and comfort.

- Limit Screen Time: If you find that your symptoms worsen with prolonged screen time, take regular breaks to reduce eye strain.

- Follow Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your optometrist if symptoms persist. They can provide additional insights and adjustments to your lenses if necessary.

In conclusion, while experiencing double vision with hard contact lenses can be unsettling, it is often a temporary issue related to adaptation. However, if the problem continues, seeking professional advice is crucial to ensure your eye health and comfort.