Contact lenses have revolutionized the world of optics, providing millions of people with a comfortable and practical alternative to traditional glasses. Within the wide variety of contact lenses available on the market, monthly toric lenses have gained popularity, especially among those who suffer from astigmatism.
What are monthly toric contact lenses?
Toric contact lenses are specifically designed to correct astigmatism, an eye condition that occurs when the cornea or lens is irregularly shaped, causing distorted or blurred vision.
Unlike traditional spherical contact lenses, which have the same optical power across their entire surface, toric contact lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens to adapt to the irregularity of the cornea or lens.
The term “monthly” indicates the recommended duration of use of these contact lenses. This means that you can wear the same pair of toric contact lenses for a month before replacing them with a new pair.
Using monthly toric contact lenses offers numerous benefits, particularly for those looking for a longer-lasting option than daily toric contact lenses without compromising comfort. However, it is essential to understand its characteristics, know how to select the most suitable pair and know the care required to maximize all its advantages.
Benefits of using monthly toric contact lenses
Monthly toric lenses are specifically designed for people with astigmatism and offer the advantage of monthly replacement, which can be more convenient and cost-effective compared to daily options. Here are some of the main benefits of using monthly toric contact lenses:
- Clear and Stable Vision: Thanks to their special design, toric contact lenses offer effective correction of astigmatism, providing clear and constant vision.
- Extended Comfort: Given their replacement cycle, these contact lenses are made to maintain comfort for a full month. Modern materials allow good oxygen permeability, which reduces the feeling of dryness or irritation.
- Cost-effectiveness: By replacing contact lenses once a month, you may find that monthly lenses offer better value compared to daily lenses, especially if you wear them regularly.
- Less Handling: By not having to replace them daily, you reduce the number of times you have to handle them, which can reduce the risk of contamination or damage.
- Less Waste: By using fewer lenses throughout the year compared to daily, you create less packaging and lens waste.
- Ease of Use: Many users find that maintaining a replacement monthly routine is easier to remember than a daily or weekly routine.
It is vital to remember that, although monthly toric contact lenses have many benefits, it is essential to properly care for them, clean them store them in fresh solution every night, and follow your ophthalmologist’s recommendations to ensure eye health.
How to choose the right monthly toric contact lenses
Choosing the correct contact lenses is essential to guarantee the health of your eyes and optimal vision. Monthly toric contact lenses, being designed specifically for astigmatism, have certain peculiarities that you should consider when making your choice.
Understanding your prescription
Before purchasing any type of contact lens, it is vital to understand your eye prescription. Toric lenses require additional measurements, such as cylinder and axis, to properly correct astigmatism. These parameters will ensure that the lens fits perfectly and corrects vision effectively.
Care and maintenance tips
Keeping your contact lenses in optimal condition is essential to protect the health of your eyes and ensure clear vision. Here are some essential tips given by JL Rohatgi Hospital for the care and maintenance of your monthly toric contact lenses:
- Daily cleaning: Although monthly toric lenses are known for their resistance to deposits, it is essential to clean them daily with a recommended solution. This ensures the removal of proteins, bacteria and other debris that could accumulate.
- Avoid using tap water: Use saline or other recommended solutions to clean and store your contact lenses instead of tap water. Tap water can contain microorganisms that are harmful to your eyes.
- Spot replacement: Make sure to replace your lenses every month. Using them beyond your recommended cycle may increase the risk of infection or irritation.
- Avoid sleeping in them: Unless your ophthalmologist recommends it, do not sleep wearing your contact lenses. Prolonged use can reduce oxygenation of the eye and cause complications.
- Handling with clean hands: Always wash your hands with mild soap and dry them with a lint-free towel before touching your contact lenses.
- Proper storage: Store your lenses in a clean case and be sure to change the solution daily. It is also advisable to replace the case every three months to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Regular consultation with your ophthalmologist: Have regular checkups to make sure your eyes are in good condition and that monthly toric contact lenses are still the right option for you.
