Should You Choose High Oxygen Permeable Contact Lenses?

Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses

Hello Doctor: When I went to get contact lenses, they recommended high oxygen permeability contact lenses for me (R800-125, L675-75).
Is that a good choice? How much astigmatism can I have before I need to wear toric lenses? Thank you.

Rensheng de fangxiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/24

Dr. Lin Zhengyi reply Ophthalmology

Hello! The oxygen required by the superficial layer of the cornea primarily comes from the oxygen dissolved in the tear film from the air.
Prolonged exposure can slow down the rate of oxygen penetration into the cornea, potentially leading to corneal hypoxia and even keratitis.
High-oxygen-permeable contact lenses are less likely to cause corneal hypoxia when worn for extended periods; however, it is still recommended not to exceed eight hours of wear.
Additionally, it is not advisable to sleep overnight while wearing contact lenses, and for astigmatism of less than one diopter, regular contact lenses (without astigmatism correction) can be used.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2004/11/24

More Info

When considering whether to choose high oxygen permeable contact lenses, it's essential to understand the benefits and potential drawbacks of these lenses, especially in relation to your specific vision needs and lifestyle.

High oxygen permeable (or high Dk/t) contact lenses are designed to allow more oxygen to reach the cornea compared to regular soft lenses. This is crucial because the cornea does not have its own blood supply and relies on oxygen from the air. Increased oxygen permeability can help reduce the risk of hypoxia (oxygen deprivation), which can lead to complications such as corneal swelling, redness, and discomfort. For individuals who wear contact lenses for extended periods, especially overnight, high oxygen permeable lenses can significantly enhance comfort and eye health.

In your case, the prescription you mentioned (R800-125, L675-75) indicates a need for correction in both eyes, with a specific focus on astigmatism. The question of whether you need to wear toric lenses (which correct astigmatism) depends on the degree of astigmatism you have. Generally, if your astigmatism is mild (around 0.75 diopters or less), you might be able to wear spherical lenses without significant visual compromise. However, if your astigmatism is moderate to high (greater than 1.00 diopter), toric lenses are typically recommended to ensure clear vision.

It's also worth noting that high oxygen permeable lenses come in both spherical and toric designs, so if you have astigmatism, you can still benefit from the oxygen permeability while correcting your vision adequately.
When considering contact lenses, it’s also important to factor in your lifestyle. If you are active, work in a dusty environment, or spend long hours in front of screens, high oxygen permeable lenses can provide additional comfort and reduce the risk of dryness and irritation. Additionally, if you have a history of eye issues or are prone to infections, these lenses may be a better choice for you.

In terms of care, high oxygen permeable lenses often require specific cleaning and maintenance routines to ensure they remain comfortable and safe for use. It’s crucial to follow the recommendations provided by your eye care professional regarding cleaning solutions and wearing schedules.

Lastly, always consult with your eye care provider to discuss your specific needs, lifestyle, and any concerns you may have. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your eye health, prescription, and preferences. Regular eye exams are also essential to monitor your eye health and ensure that your contact lenses continue to meet your vision needs effectively.

In summary, high oxygen permeable contact lenses can be an excellent choice for many individuals, particularly those with higher oxygen demands or specific vision corrections like astigmatism. The decision should be made in consultation with your eye care professional, who can help you weigh the benefits against your specific needs and lifestyle.

Similar Q&A

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses: Comfort and Oxygen Permeability Explained

Hello Doctor: Due to work requirements, I need to wear contact lenses. My work environment varies between being in an air-conditioned room for long periods (static) and being outdoors (dynamic). I visited an optical shop, and the staff presented me with two types of contact lense...

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Is this your first time wearing contact lenses? If so, it is advisable to have an eye examination (be sure to inform the doctor that you want to wear contact lenses). Currently, disposable soft contact lenses are predominant, and with advancements in materials, the importa...

Understanding Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses for High Myopia

Hello Doctor: I have a myopia of 800 degrees. A few days ago, I went to an optical shop to get glasses, and they told me that my eyes are very demanding on vision and will continue to deteriorate. Therefore, they recommended that I wear rigid gas permeable contact lenses, which a...

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology
Hello: If you are over the age of 25, your vision is unlikely to change significantly unless there are some special pathological conditions. The advantage of orthokeratology lenses is that you do not need to wear contact lenses during the day, but if you stop wearing them for a w...

Can People with Thick Corneas Safely Wear Contact Lenses?

Hello Doctor: I have a condition of corneal thickness, which results in higher intraocular pressure compared to the average person. Is it suitable for me to wear contact lenses? If so, do you have any recommendations regarding the type, such as daily disposables or those with hig...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Wearing contact lenses should be fine; any type should be acceptable. However, if you are using extended wear lenses, it is important to pay attention to proper cleaning and maintenance.

Hard vs. Soft Contact Lenses: Which is Better for High Prescription?

Hello, a few days ago I went to get fitted for contact lenses, and the optometrist said that due to my high prescription (700), it is recommended that I wear rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses because they have better oxygen permeability and can help slow down the progression of my...

Dr. Huang Bozhen reply Ophthalmology
Hard lenses are rarely worn because they are difficult to adapt to; any discomfort can be immediately noticed. In contrast, soft lens users are quite common, but issues are often not easily detected since they feel very comfortable. From a physician's perspective, it is reco...