Until recently, problems with vision could be solved only with the help of glasses or soft lenses or through surgical methods. But today there is an excellent alternative to these methods - orthokeratology.
What is orthokeratology?
Orthokeratology (OK-therapy) is the newest method of temporary correction of vision with the help of lenses that are worn for the night. This method is applicable for such refractive anomalies as nearsightedness and astigmatism.
The principle of orthokeratology is close to laser correction, only with the difference that the effect remains only for some time (up to 24 hours). During sleep, special hard night lenses provide little pressure to improve and give the cornea the right shape (curvature), which lasts for a day, allowing you to have near perfect vision.
In this case, contrary to widespread misconception, there is no direct contact of the lens with the epithelium of the cornea (between them there is always a layer of tears). Therefore, the cornea is not damaged (provided that the rules for the use of lenses are observed).
In addition to temporary recovery of vision, night lenses can stop the development of myopia in childhood and adolescence, which is the only method to date.
Indications for the use of night lenses for improving vision:
- nearsightedness from - 0,5 to - 6 diopters;
- astigmatism up to - 1.75 diopters;
- the inability to use glasses or daytime contact lenses (for example, due to professional conditions - dust, high humidity, temperature changes);
- intolerance of soft contact lenses (allergic reactions, dry eye syndrome, decreased corneal sensitivity, etc.);
- impossibility of laser correction of vision;
- children's progressive myopia.
The use of night-time lenses for vision correction is practically unlimited and allowed for patients from 6 years of age.
How to use night lenses?
Night lenses that restore vision, dress 10-15 minutes before night sleep with a special pipette. The exposure time should not be less than 8 hours, otherwise the result will be worse. After sleep, the lenses are removed and placed in a special container with a solution.
Like all lenses, night lenses require strict adherence to hygiene and storage rules.
Advantages and disadvantages of night lenses
Perhaps the only drawbacks of these lenses can be called their temporary effect and considerable cost. Otherwise, they are an ideal option for those who for some reason can not or do not want to wear glasses or daytime lenses. At the same time, night lenses provide clear vision without surgery, medical gymnastics, etc.
It is worth noting that in the beginning wearing lens correcting eyesight, there is an unpleasant feeling of foreign body in the eye. However, during sleep, there are no blinking movements, so the lens is not felt. In addition, after a few days the eye adapts, and discomfort disappears even with the eyes open.
Night lenses are made of oxygen-permeable material, which increases their hygiene. In addition, thanks to night lenses, the eyes of the cornea breathe during the day (which is much more difficult when wearing daytime lenses), so there is no risk of oxygen
Night lenses relieve of physical limitations associated with wearing glasses and contact lenses, as well as associated psychological problems (especially in children).
How to choose night lenses?
Night lenses for vision correction are not sold in conventional optics, but only in specialized ophthalmological clinics.
The choice of lenses is performed by the doctor based on the results of the diagnosis, and a series of tests are performed to ensure the correctness of the choice.