How a Pair of Glasses Could Help Migraine Headaches

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How a Pair of Glasses Could Help Migraine Headaches

Migraine and tension headaches are known to cause vision and eye discomfort. Luckily different lenses can help reduce these symptoms.

Migraine headaches cause sensory discomfort, which often affects our vision and eye comfort. It is estimated that almost half of the world’s population suffers from headaches, with 42% suffering from tension headaches and 11% from migraines.

Thanks to improving lens technology, you can relieve migraine symptoms with migraine glasses like transitional lenses, reflective sunglasses, tinted lenses and blue light-blocking glasses.

How do glasses for migraine relief work?

If you’re prone to light sensitivity, migraine glasses can relieve headaches by filtering out certain types of bright lights, like fluorescent lighting, that can trigger migraines or worsen symptoms. These glasses typically have special light sensitivity lenses that can block blue light and other certain wavelengths known to trigger migraines in some people.

By reducing the amount of triggering light levels that reach the eyes, these glasses can help to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine episodes, improving your quality of life.

If you are experiencing headaches, it is essential to research your symptoms to determine what type you have to know which glasses you need to wear for relief. Migraine glasses may not be effective for other types of headaches, such as tension or sinus headaches, which require different treatments.

What is a migraine headache, and how are they caused?

It is believed by researchers that migraine episodes result from abnormal communication between nerves, chemicals and blood vessels in the body and brain. Migraine attacks usually start with an intense throbbing on the side of your head. They can spread all over the head and to the back of the neck as they worsen.

Eye strain is one factor that can bring on migraine attacks. When our eyes are fatigued from prolonged use, such as staring at a computer screen for long periods, the brain can become overstimulated and trigger a migraine.

Eye strain can also cause tension in the muscles around the eyes and neck, contributing to migraines. If you’re experiencing migraines, be sure to speak to your eye doctor to rule out vision problems.

DID YOU KNOW?

While there are no glasses specifically made to combat migraine headaches, different lenses with red tints, blue light blocking filter or photochromatic add-ons can help reduce the frequency and intensity.

What is the difference between tension and migraine headaches?

A tightening feeling around the head is often a sign that you’re suffering from a tension headache; intense throbbing indicates a migraine. Though not always the case, moderate to severe headaches can clearly show signs that you suffer from a migraine rather than a tension headache.

According to the Health Line (Health Line 2023), Scientists believe there is a spectrum of headaches, with tension headaches at one end and migraine at the other. It’s possible to have a mixed tension migraine with characteristics of both a tension headache and a migraine headache.

What are ocular migraines?

Ocular migraines, or retinal migraines, are a rare form of migraine that is characterised by blurry vision or even temporary vision loss in one eye. It is believed that spasms of blood vessels cause this type of chronic migraine in the retina.

While rare, ocular migraines can cause permanent vision damage, so you must see a doctor if you believe you’re experiencing these symptoms. Ocular migraines cannot be treated with glasses alone.

Ocular migraines vs. migraine auras?

While ocular migraines are a type of visual migraine, auras are a symptom of regular, recurring migraines. A migraine “aura” is a sensory disturbance, such as flashes of light, blurry vision or other vision problems before a migraine strikes, and can last anywhere from 5-60 minutes.

While no glasses are developed to treat migraine auras specifically, you can significantly reduce the effects of migraine auras as you would with migraine photophobia, opting for eyewear to protect the eye from certain harmful light rays.

What is photophobia?

While there are many symptoms of migraines, one of the most painful and commonly reported migraine pains is photophobia or extreme light sensitivity. Photophobia is not a condition but a symptom of another underlying complication, such as migraine attacks. It results from the connection between the cells in your eyes that detect light and the nerves that go to your head, making it a common complaint among migraine patients.

What glasses are best for migraines?

When choosing glasses for migraines, looking for lenses that can effectively block harmful light and reduce eye strain is essential. Some of the best migraine glasses include those with FL 41 lenses, which can filter out certain wavelengths of light that are known to trigger migraines. It’s important to note that at Smartbuyglasses, these lenses are not stocked.

Other glasses you can buy at SmartBuyGlasses that may be beneficial for migraines are those with photochromatic, polarised or blue light lenses, which can reduce glare, block certain colours and improve visual clarity. Anti-reflective coatings and red-tinted glasses can also be useful for reducing glare and minimising eye strain.

How can photochromic lenses help with migraine headaches?

Photochromic sunglasses can help with migraine episodes by reducing the amount of light that enters the eyes. Photochromic lenses, also known as transitional lenses, are eyeglass lenses that darken in response to ultraviolet (UV) light. They contain special molecules that react to UV light, causing the lenses to darken when exposed to sunlight or other UV light sources.

A migraine attack can often be triggered by bright light or glare, which can cause discomfort and pain in the eyes. By wearing glasses with photochromic lenses, you can help reduce the amount of light that enters your eyes, which can help reduce migraine frequency and intensity. You can easily turn your prescription glasses into photochromatic glasses to reduce eyestrain as well.

What other migraine sunglasses are there?

Reflective sunglasses are one type of migraine sunglasses that can help prevent migraine triggers by blocking bright light and glare. They are designed with a reflective coating, helping to reflect harmful UV rays and reduce glare. Wearing sunglasses with reflective lenses is also helpful for people with light sensitivity, as they help to reduce the brightness of light that enters the eyes.

Another type of migraine sunglasses that can be beneficial is those with polarised lenses. Polarised lenses have a unique filter that blocks reflected light, reducing glare and improving visual clarity. They are particularly useful for people who suffer from migraines triggered by bright sunlight or glare. They can be combined with other lens features, such as prescription glasses, anti-reflective coatings and UV protection, to enhance their effectiveness and provide maximum eye protection.

Can blue light glasses help with migraines?

Blue light exposure from digital screens has been linked to triggering migraines, so blocking blue light with specialised glasses can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. Additionally, blue light glasses can help reduce eye strain and improve sleep quality, which can be beneficial for migraine sufferers who experience these symptoms.

However, it’s important to note that blue light glasses may not work for everyone and should not be used as the sole management strategy for migraines. Identifying and avoiding other migraine triggers like light sensitivity, fluorescent lighting and harsh light is still crucial. We suggest speaking with your eye doctor or seeking medical treatment if necessary.

Do migraine glasses really work?

While there is no cure for migraines, glasses with specialised lenses can help with light sensitivity and reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine episodes and ease photophobia symptoms. Transitional lenses, reflective sunglasses, tinted lenses, blue light-blocking glasses and polarised lenses are just a few types of prescription lenses and glasses that can benefit migraine sufferers. Speak to one of our online opticians to see which lens type will be best for you.

Reference list

Health Line. (2018, September 3). Mixed Tension Migraine. Health Line. Retrieved March 22, 2023, from https://www.healthline.com/health/mixed-tension-migraine

What is the Fastest Way to Heal a Scratched Eye?

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What is the Fastest Way to Heal a Scratched Eye?

A scratched cornea is a small but painful injury. Learn how to deal with one and ensure it heals as quickly as possible.

Disclaimer: We at SmartBuyGlasses are not medical doctors. This article contains general advice. If your scratched eye is weeping or extremely painful, consult your doctor or an eye care professional for treatment.

What is a scratched cornea?

A scratched eye is quite a common injury that, thankfully, usually heals itself. The specific part of the eye concerned is the cornea.

The cornea is the transparent front part of the eye that covers the iris and the pupil. It allows light to enter and helps the eye to focus.

It is the most protrusive and exposed part of the eyeball, so it can become damaged or scratched relatively easily in a number of ways.

A scratched cornea is also known as a corneal abrasion. Although corneal abrasions are generally minor eye injuries, they can still cause significant pain.

If left untreated, an eye infection or corneal ulcer can develop, so it’s important to know how to deal with one.

Corneal abrasion causes & risk factors

Corneal abrasions can occur quite easily through a combination of your own hands and foreign objects coming into contact with the eyeball.

Accidental poking with a pen, makeup brush, or fingernail is a common cause, as are small particles like sand, dust, or ash entering the eye.

We often instinctively rub our eyes when this happens, which can create friction between the small particles and the cornea, causing an abrasion.

Even without the presence of corneal foreign bodies, rubbing your eyes too hard can scratch the cornea. Overuse of contact lenses or improper contact lens hygiene is another risk factor.

Playing sports or engaging in other physical activities without proper protective eyewear leaves you open to the possibility of a scratched cornea, while they can also stem from certain types of eye infections.

Even eye surgery can be responsible for a corneal abrasion if sufficient eye protection is not used.

DID YOU KNOW?

Vitamin C boosts your immune system, helping your body to fight off infections and heal wounds quickly.

Corneal abrasion symptoms

It’s possible to scratch your cornea without immediately realising that it has happened. You will likely feel the effects of it, although they too can take some time to set in.

The first symptom is usually pain when opening or closing the eye, or the feeling that there is something stuck in it.

Some of the following symptoms will also likely be present in the case of a corneal abrasion:

Watery eyes or excessive tearing
Redness in the eye
Sudden sensitivity to light
Swelling of the eyelids
Sudden blurred vision or loss of vision
Eye twitching
Nausea
Dull headache

How to deal with a suspected corneal abrasion

Experiencing some of the above symptoms is not a surefire indicator that your cornea is scratched, as they can also be symptoms of other, unrelated eye problems.

However, a combination of them after exposure to some of the risk factors cited in this article means there’s a good chance that you have indeed scratched your eye.

If you suspect that you may have a corneal abrasion, here are some steps you can take to prevent the situation from worsening:

Consult an eye doctor
Flush the eye out with water or saline solution, without rubbing it (but no more than once or twice)
Wear sunglasses to reduce light sensitivity
Use a cold compress to relieve swelling, pain, and discomfort
Keep your face and eyelids clean
Rest your eyes and avoid straining them

You may be tempted to try and take action to minimise your pain or discomfort, but you could end up doing more harm than good.

If you suspect your cornea is scratched, make sure you go see your doctor and avoid doing the following:

Don’t rub your eye
Don’t try to remove anything from your eye with tweezers or any other instruments
Don’t apply an eye patch unless instructed to do so by an eye doctor
Don’t wear eye makeup
Don’t wear contact lenses until your eye doctor tells you it’s ok
Don’t try to flush out your eye with anything other than clean water or sterile saline solution

How to treat a scratched cornea

The steps above are to be followed as soon as you suspect you may have a corneal abrasion and should help relieve irritation.

As they’re often mild to moderate, most corneal abrasions heal by themselves, so medical intervention is not always strictly necessary.

But we recommend seeing your doctor if it doesn’t begin to subside within a day or two.

If there is continued eye pain, a change in vision, or light sensitivity after the scratch or eyeball trauma, seek emergency care.

A foreign object lodged in the eye, a loss of vision, or a high-force impact on the eye may require a visit to the emergency room.

Medical treatment

An eye doctor will be able to remove any small object that may be lodged in the eye, and also examine it for damage and check your vision.

If they need to remove an object, they’ll apply topical anesthesia on the eye so it won’t hurt, and use an appropriate instrument to extract the particle.

They may then prescribe you antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection, or pain relievers.

Ciprofloxacin or moxifloxacin eye drops are common choices for this. In some cases, the doctor may apply a bandage contact lens or therapeutic contact lens.

They protect the cornea, relieve pain associated with blinking, and aid the cornea’s healing process.

Recovery time

The saying goes that time heals all wounds, and with most eye scratches, that rings true.

In the majority of cases, there is only a minor scratch, so generally, the eye heals in 24-48 hours. Following the guidelines laid out in this article should help the injury subside in this timeframe.

If you’ve suffered a scratched eye and are still experiencing symptoms after 48 hours, consult an eye doctor, and they will examine your eye and treat the injury accordingly.

Prevention is better than a cure

While there are best practices you can follow when you have a scratched eye, there is no immediate fix.

The best way to avoid the pain and discomfort that come with a corneal abrasion is to take appropriate precautions to prevent one from happening in the first place.

In outdoor or work situations where there is a risk of foreign matter like metal particles or sand entering the eye, wear safety glasses.

The same applies to playing sports with an elevated risk of something coming into contact with the eyes.

In the event that something does enter your eye, resist the urge to rub it. Instead, blink several times or gently pull the upper eyelid over the lower eyelid.

Rinsing with water or saline solution can flush the object out before it has time to do any damage.

A small scratch on your eye may heal relatively quickly, but if you can avoid one altogether, you’ll save yourself some pain.

Eye Shapes

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Eye Shapes

You may never have consciously noticed it, but eye shape can have quite an impact on how someone looks. Learn all about the different shapes in this article.

If you were asked to describe what someone looks like, what features would you include in your description?

For many, eye colour would be one of the first things mentioned. It is a very noticeable aspect of a person’s look, and can often be the first thing that strikes us when meeting someone new.

Although it receives less attention, there is another ocular trait that impacts physical appearance and natural beauty; eye shape.

Maybe you’ve occasionally remarked that someone has particularly wide, deep-set, or narrow eyes, but did you know there are actually ten distinct eye shapes that categorise this facial feature?

The 10 different eye shapes

As opposed to face shapes (which are very loosely divided into four different options), different eye shapes are defined in more detail, as evidenced by the larger number of categories.

The eyelids, openness and angle of the eyes, and other factors are involved in the classification of eye shapes.

These small details are perhaps not something you consciously recognise, but they definitely have an effect on our overall perception of people’s faces.

Read up on the characteristics of each eye shape below, and you’ll soon be unwittingly using your newfound knowledge to identify the shape of every pair of eyes you see!

Almond shaped eyes

As the name suggests, almond eyes have an elongated, oval/almond shape and taper off significantly toward the corners.

The defining feature of almond shaped eyes is that the iris touches both the top and bottom eyelid. This means that the sclera (the white part of the eye) is not visible directly above or directly below the iris.

Round eyes

With round eyes, the white of the eye is visible both above and below the iris, which can make them stand out more as a facial feature.

The inner and outer corners have a less prominent taper than those of almond eyes. Round eyes also have a visible crease in the skin of the upper eyelid.

Protruding eyes

Some people’s eyeballs are naturally set further forward in the eye socket. The result of this is protruding eyes. The shape of the eyeball itself is more prominent, making the eyes look rounder.

With protruding eyes, a large proportion of the white of the eye is visible, as the eyelids typically do not reach the iris.

Monolid eyes

The eyelids are the determining factor here, as they have no crease or fold. This sets the monolid eye shape apart from other eye shapes and gives them a very distinct appearance.

Monolid eyes appear flat as the smooth eyelid does not cling tightly to the eyeball. It is common for people of Asian descent to have monolid eyes. They are also called epicanthal folds.

Downturned eyes

The main characteristic of downturned eyes is the outer corners of the eyes. With most eye shapes, the outer corner is slightly higher than the inner corner.

With downturned eyes, it is level with, or slightly lower than the inner corner.

The outer edge of the upper eyelid usually also slopes downwards more steeply than with other eye shapes.

DID YOU KNOW?

The rarest eye shape differs depending on where you are in the world, as some eye shapes are more commonly found in certain populations than others.

Upturned eyes

Unsurprisingly, upturned eyes are the opposite of downturned eyes. In this case, the outer corner is positioned higher than the inner corner.

The overall shape is similar to almond eyes, but with the added lift in the outer corner.

Upturned eyes are sometimes referred to as “cat-eyes”, and there is a clear resemblance between this eye shape and cat-eye glasses frames.

Close-set eyes

Rather than the shape or angle of the various parts of the eye, close-set eyes are defined by their position in relation to one another.

Eyes are generally considered to be close-set if the distance between the inner corners (from one tear duct to the other) is less than one eyeball width.

Your eyes may be close-set while also having a round, almond, or any other shape.

Wide-set eyes

Once again, it’s all in the name. If the distance between your eyes is greater than one eyeball width, your eyes are considered to be wide-set.

Although particularly wide-set eyes can be a trait attached to certain medical conditions, some people’s eyes are simply further apart than others.

Deep-set eyes

With deep-set eyes, the eyeball sits further back in the socket, creating the opposite of the bulging appearance associated with protruding eyes.

As the eyes are further back in the skull, the brow bone has a more prominent, even protrusive look.

Hooded eyes

Hooded eyes occur when there is an overhang of skin on the upper eyelid.

This conceals the crease in the eyelid, with the excess fold of skin sometimes extending past the edge of the upper lash line, hence the name “hooded eyes”.

How do I find my eye shape?

Now that you’re up to speed on the different variations, you can determine your eye shape very easily by observing your eyes in the mirror.

Look straight ahead and also from different angles to take note of your eyes’ characteristics.

Do not attempt to open them wider or flex any muscles to alter their shape. Otherwise, you will not be able to determine your eye shape correctly.

Here is a brief run-through of the some different combinations of characteristics, and what eye shapes they indicate:

No visible eyelid crease – monolid eyes
Crease in eyelid, white visible above and below the iris – round eyes
Outer corners level with (or lower than) inner corners – downturned eyes
Flap of skin hiding the inward crease in the eyelid – hooded eyes
Top and bottom eyelids touching the iris, visible crease – almond eyes
Outer corners higher than inner corners with an upwards flick – upturned eyes
Prominent brow bone, round eyes with a lot of white visible – protruding eyes
Distance between eyes greater than the width of one eye – wide-set eyes
Distance between eyes less than the width of one eye – close-set eyes

Can eye shape affect vision?

The eye shapes detailed in this article refer to the appearance of the eyes and how they are positioned on the face.

Your eye shape is a genetic trait that has an aesthetic effect on your appearance, but generally does not affect vision. The shape of the eyeball itself, on the other hand, is the cause of some common vision problems.

Myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism

An elongated eyeball is responsible for myopia (shortsightedness), causing blurry distance vision.

Conversely, if the eyeball is shorter than usual, it results in hyperopia (farsightedness), blurring objects in your near field of vision.

Both conditions are refractive errors, direct results of the shape of the eyeball. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or the lens is irregularly shaped.

Exophthalmos

Exophthalmos is a condition that causes one or both of the eyes to bulge, and is often an indicator of hyperthyroidism, a serious condition with wider effects on overall health and quality of life.

Protruding eyes can be a natural aesthetic trait caused by the position of the eyeballs in the skull.

However, if you don’t have naturally protruding eyes and you notice that they appear to be bulging, see an eye doctor immediately.

Ptosis

Hooded eyes are a hereditary trait, but eyelids also tend to droop with age, sometimes leading to a condition called ptosis.

Ptosis occurs when the eyelid remains in a semi-closed position, or a flap of skin from the eyelid hangs over the upper lash line, obscuring vision.

If severe and left untreated, it can lead to vision problems like astigmatism or amblyopia. Ptosis can be surgically corrected, either for cosmetic reasons, or to prevent further vision obstruction or loss.

Can I change my eye shape?

In the vast majority of cases, there is no need to surgically alter your eye shape, although some people seek cosmetic procedures to achieve their desired aesthetic.

Applying mascara, dark eyeshadow, or other eye makeup is a much less drastic alternative for those who would like to try out a different look, but you’ll have to consult a different source if you’re looking for more detailed makeup tips.

Choosing glasses frames for your eye shape

When choosing a new pair of glasses, you should always take your face shape into consideration in order to get the most harmonious aesthetic results.

Eye shape has less significance in this regard, but there are certain frame styles that may complement your particular eye shape a little more than others.

If you have close-set eyes, a frame with a thin bridge will is a flattering option. If you’re on the other end of the scale with wide-set eyes, a chunkier frame would suit you well, and bright colours can draw attention away from the gap.

Square or round frames look great on round eyes, and for almond eyes, try to find a frame that’s similar to the eye shape itself.

Most importantly, remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, no matter what shape that eye may be!

To really get the best results, choose a pair of glasses that are comfortable and that you feel confident wearing, even if that means going against the grain.

Lowest Prescription for Contacts

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Lowest Prescription for Contacts

Contact lenses are becoming more advanced and available for those in need of vision correction for nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.

Contact lenses have become much more comfortable, breathable and versatile since they were first designed in the 19th century.

The earliest versions were blown from glass, so it’s no wonder they were less popular than they are now. Today, contact lenses are thin, plastic lenses used for vision correction.

Contact lenses differ from glasses as they are worn directly on the cornea, the front surface of the eye. Contact lenses adhere to the shape of the eye, allowing a wider field of vision and fewer distortions or obstacles than prescription glasses.

Are glasses prescriptions and contact lens prescriptions the same?

The lens power in glasses and contact lenses can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Just as contact lenses and glasses are not worn in the same way, their prescriptions also differ.

Glasses generally rest about 12 mm from the eyes, whereas contacts are worn directly on the eyes and have a much smaller surface area. The distance from the eye directly impacts the difference in lens power.

A prescription for eyeglasses and contact lenses will require separate eye exams and measurements from your optometrist as the prescriptions will differ.

Additionally, with so many types of contact lenses available it is important a correct fit and brand is prescribed.

Ordering contact lenses with the wrong prescription can lead to symptoms such as blurry vision, headaches, eye strain or fatigue and eye pain (AAO, 2012).

How to read a contact prescription

If you’ve received an eye exam, got your new prescription and are ready to buy contact lenses online but need clarification, you’re not alone!

Codes like “D, CYL and AXIS” are all over your prescription, but what do they mean?

Many people need different levels of vision correction in each eye, so a contact lens prescription may have two sets of numbers—one for your right eye and one for your left eye.

OD, oculus dexter, refers to your right eye, while OS, oculus sinister, refers to your left eye.

Base Curve (BC) determines the type of fit required for the lens to meet the curve of your eye. It is measured in millimeters (mm) and aligns with the curvature of your eye.
Power (PWR)/Sphere (SPH) refers to the strength of your prescription. You will see a plus sign (+) or a minus sign (-) followed by a number. If you are farsighted, your figure will begin with a plus sign. If you are nearsighted, it will start with a minus sign.
Diameter (DIA) is the entire width of your contact lenses. Also measured in millimeters, the higher the base curve, the flatter the cornea’s curvature.

If you need astigmatism correction, you will have two additional terms and numbers on the prescription. For those with astigmatism, you will need toric lenses.

Cylinder (CYL) represents the severity of your astigmatism and the additional visual requirements needed for vision correction.
Axis (AX) is measured in degrees and tells you where and how your astigmatism is located and oriented on your eye.

For those with presbyopia or who need multifocal lenses, you will notice one or both of the following on your prescription.

Addition (ADD) determines the amount of correction you need to be able to see clearly at a close distance.
Dominant (D/N) identifies your dominant (D) and non-dominant (N) eye. The dominant eye usually prioritises distance vision, while the non-dominant eye prioritises near vision.

Your prescription will also include a brand of contact lenses. Contact lens boxes will include most of the prescription details on them as well.

Different contact lens brands have distinct features and measurements, so it is important only to order the brand prescribed. If you want or need to switch brands, it is essential to let your eye doctor know.

DID YOU KNOW?

A glasses and contact lens prescription are not the same, it is important to get an updated eye exam before purchasing contacts.

DID YOU KNOW?

A glasses and contact lens prescription are not the same, it is important to get an updated eye exam before purchasing contacts.

What do the numbers mean in a contact prescription?

If you understand what the codes mean, you may still wonder what the numbers mean. BC and DIA will not be present on your glasses prescription, as they refer only to a contact lens prescription.

Measured in millimetres, the BC is always a number between 8 and 9 and will align with the curvature of your eye. DIA is typically between 14 and 14.5 millimetres and determines the entire width of your contact lens.

The PWR or SPH (prescription strength) is measured in increments of 0.25 diopters. The further from zero, the stronger the vision correction needed. A negative number, -1.00, indicates nearsightedness.

A positive number, for example, +2.00, indicates farsightedness.

CYL is always a negative number measured in increments of 0.25, showing the amount of astigmatism. AX is a number between 0 and 180 degrees, referring to the angle of correction needed.

For those with presbyopia, the ADD figure is a positive number between 0.50 and 3.00.

If you still need help reading and understanding your contact lens prescription, contact your optometrist or head to our Optical Centre to speak with one of our opticians.

How long is a contact prescription good for?

Most contact lens prescriptions expire within one to two years of your last eye exam. Once your prescription has expired, it is important to see your eye doctor for a new contact lens prescription.

Wearing the wrong prescription contacts may create discomfort and lead to further vision problems.

How low do contact prescriptions go?

Contact lenses are becoming more and more diverse and available for those in need of vision correction. Contact lenses are now offered at the lowest prescription of -0.25/+0.25.

Many people neglect to wear their low-prescription eyeglasses because of inconvenience, but wearing low-prescription contacts might be a good solution as they can be considered less obstructive.

Contact lenses don’t interfere with equipment such as helmets, hats, or goggles. During sports or exercise, contact lenses don’t get in the way.

They’re not at risk of falling off or breaking. Contact lenses are not usually affected by weather as they don’t fog up in the cold.

Correcting your vision and protecting your eyes at any prescription level is important. If you’re avoiding your glasses for ease and convenience, speak with your eye doctor about receiving an eye exam and switching to contact lenses.

What is the strongest contact lens prescription?

Advances in contact lens technology have made it so that contact lenses can be worn safely and comfortably by those with high-power prescriptions.

Standard contact lenses are readily available in prescriptions from -12.00 to +8.00, and cylinder powers up to -2.25 or -2.75 for astigmatism correction.

Extended-range lenses are also available with spherical powers of +15.00D to –20.00D and up to –5.75D in cylindrical powers (Contact Lens Spectrum, 2016).

Soft contact lenses with high powers have thicker edges compared to low-powered ones. These thicker edges may be less comfortable to wear and cause more dry eyes.

Many people with high-power prescriptions choose RGP lenses (rigid gas permeable or ‘hard’) as they are smaller and thinner than a soft lens.

RGP lenses don’t bend like soft lenses, but they let oxygen through so your eyes can breathe.

Advantages of contact lenses

While contact lenses might not be for everyone, many contact lens wearers won’t go back to standard eyeglasses. Contacts conform to your eye, reducing distortion and obstructions.

They won’t stop you from playing sports or competing in outdoor activities. Contact lenses are also available in coloured lenses, so you can experiment with your eye colour.

With varying contact lens power, affordable contact lenses and varying lens materials, there are contact lenses for everyone.

Based on your lifestyle, you can speak with your eye doctor about purchasing daily disposable lenses, weekly or monthly lenses.

Contact lenses prescription

Buying contact lenses doesn’t have to be confusing. They’re an excellent alternative for those looking to ditch their eyeglasses. It is important to remember that glasses and contact lens prescriptions are different.

Do not assume that any numbers on your glasses prescription will match your contact lens prescription.

If you want to try contact lenses, schedule an eye exam to determine what you need and what lens type will best suit you.

For people with vision problems, contacts are an effective, almost invisible tool. The thin lenses correct vision problems including nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.

You can even wear contacts if you have presbyopia and need bifocals. As technology and medicine continue to advance, contact lenses are only improving.

Speak with your eye doctor about getting a prescription for contact lenses and start seeing clearer and more comfortably.

REFERENCES

American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2012). Can outdated contact lenses harm your eyes? [Online]. Available at: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/ask-ophthalmologist-q/wearing-outdated-contacts
Contact Lens Spectrum. (2016). Specialty and Custom Soft Contact Lenses. [Online]. Available at: https://www.clspectrum.com/issues/2016/december-2016/specialty-and-custom-soft-contact-lenses

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Ask our opticians

How a Pair of Glasses Could Help Migraine Headaches

How do glasses for migraine relief work?

How do glasses for migraine relief work?

What is a migraine headache, and how are they caused?

What is a migraine headache, and how are they caused?

DID YOU KNOW?

What is the difference between tension and migraine headaches?

What is the difference between tension and migraine headaches?

What are ocular migraines?

What are ocular migraines?

Ocular migraines vs. migraine auras?

Ocular migraines vs. migraine auras?

What is photophobia?

What is photophobia?

What glasses are best for migraines?

What glasses are best for migraines?

How can photochromic lenses help with migraine headaches?

How can photochromic lenses help with migraine headaches?

What other migraine sunglasses are there?

What other migraine sunglasses are there?

Can blue light glasses help with migraines?

Can blue light glasses help with migraines?

Do migraine glasses really work?

Do migraine glasses really work?

Reference list

Reference list

Ask our opticians

What is the Fastest Way to Heal a Scratched Eye?

What is a scratched cornea?

Corneal abrasion causes & risk factors

DID YOU KNOW?

Corneal abrasion symptoms

How to deal with a suspected corneal abrasion

How to treat a scratched cornea

Medical treatment

Recovery time

Prevention is better than a cure

Ask our opticians

Eye Shapes

The 10 different eye shapes

Almond shaped eyes

Round eyes

Protruding eyes

Monolid eyes

Downturned eyes

DID YOU KNOW?

Upturned eyes

Close-set eyes

Wide-set eyes

Deep-set eyes

Hooded eyes

How do I find my eye shape?

Can eye shape affect vision?

Myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism

Exophthalmos

Ptosis

Can I change my eye shape?

Choosing glasses frames for your eye shape

Ask our opticians

Lowest Prescription for Contacts

Are glasses prescriptions and contact lens prescriptions the same?

How to read a contact prescription

DID YOU KNOW?

DID YOU KNOW?