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Clear Vision for Astigmatism

02 Oct 2024
Astigmatism and presbyopia are two common vision conditions that can significantly impact one’s ability to see clearly. Astigmatism is a refractive error caused by a cornea that has a steeper curvature in one meridian than the other. This results in blurred and distorted vision, making it difficult for adults to see while driving and for children to participate in the classroom.

Presbyopia, on the other hand, is an age-related condition that typically starts developing after the age of 40. This condition makes it harder to focus on nearby objects. As the lens inside the eye loses its flexibility, activities like reading, working on the computer, or engaging in close-up tasks become increasingly challenging.

If left uncorrected, astigmatism and presbyopia can significantly affect patients’ abilities to participate in daily activities and overall quality of life. RGP lenses offer a potential solution when traditional lenses and reading glasses don’t provide significant relief.

What are RGP Lenses?
Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are hard contact lenses widely prescribed today. They are made using a firm, oxygen-permeable polymer. RGP lenses are custom-made and designed to provide sharper, clearer vision compared to their soft contact lens counterparts. Due to the material they are made from, they are also more durable and can last longer than traditional soft contacts, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run.

RGP lenses also maintain their shape, unlike soft lenses that conform to the eye.

Because of this, they are often recommended for individuals with specific vision needs, such as astigmatism, because the rigid material can help neutralize partially or completely the corneal astigmatism.

Which Conditions Can Benefit from RGP Lenses?
Astigmatism prevents light from focusing correctly, resulting in blurred vision at all distances. Symptoms of astigmatism include distorted vision, frequent squinting, headaches, and eye strain. Astigmatism can pose severe challenges for tasks such as driving, so correcting it is crucial for improving overall quality of life.

Astigmatism causes blurry and distorted vision and can be corrected using glasses with a special cylindrical lens prescription. There are a lot of soft disposable lenses that can correct astigmatism. However, these lenses may rotate which leads to blurring. While RGP lenses maintain their shape over the cornea, allowing for effective correction and providing sharper vision.

Both astigmatism and presbyopia can be highly irritating and cause problems with daily activities.

RGB patient’s review:

I found Dr. Kramer on the internet and read her credentials and was thrilled she specialized in different types of contact lenses. I was diagnosed with myopia at 5 years old and I’ve been wearing RGPs for 30 years. As an adult, I struggled to find an appropriate vision provider who also knew contact lenses. Dr. Kramer is a professional and her expertise is evident. I could not be happier with the service I received at WCLI.

~ Bonnie

What are the Benefits of RGP Lenses?
An advantage of RGP lenses is their customization. These lenses are customized to fit the exact shape of your cornea, providing a more comprehensive range of vision correction and a superior overall fit. This feature makes them suitable for individuals who can’t wear regular contact lenses due to irregularly shaped corneas.

RGP lenses are also known for their resistance to deposit buildup. Their smooth surface and the fact that they don’t absorb or retain water minimizes the problem of buildup. This feature makes them less likely to attract lipids, proteins, and breed bacteria that can lead to eye infections, making them a safer option.

RGP lenses are cost-effective. These lenses often last longer than other lenses, reducing the frequency with which you need to buy replacements. Because RGP lenses are rigid, you don’t have to worry about tearing them, and they are easier to clean. One pair of RGP lenses may last a year or longer with proper care.

While RGP lenses may not be suitable for everyone, they offer several benefits that make them an attractive option. If you’re considering RGP lenses, it’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with your eye care practitioner to decide if they are the right choice for your specific vision needs.

What are the Disadvantages Associated with RGP Lenses?
Patients’ primary issues with RGP lenses are the adaptation period and the extended process involved in the initial fitting and design of the lenses. Due to their material and inflexibility, hard contact lenses can take longer to get used to wearing than soft lenses.

Getting your RGP lenses can take up to a few weeks because they are custom-made to suit each patient’s unique prescription and measurements. Despite the potential pros and cons, exploring RGP lenses to help you manage your ocular condition may be extremely beneficial.

The Clear Choice for Astigmatism and Presbyopia Correction
Rigid Gas Permeable lenses (RGPs) offer a promising solution for individuals suffering from astigmatism and presbyopia, conditions that can affect one’s quality of life. Manufactured from a durable, oxygen-permeable material, RGP lenses provide numerous advantages, including sharper vision, increased durability, and better overall value.

Despite the potential adaptation period and the need for a custom fit, the benefits of RGP lenses often outweigh the challenges. As with any vision correction solution, it is crucial to consult with your optometrist to ensure that RGP lenses align with your unique vision needs and lifestyle.
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