How Expert Calgary Optometrists In Our Eye Clinic In Southcentre Mall Utilize Orthokeratology Contact Lenses For Myopia Control
The increasing number of people with myopia, or nearsightedness, is now a major health issue. This common eye problem affects more and more individuals worldwide, making it important to find effective ways to manage it.
Myopia isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a condition that gets worse over time and can lead to serious vision problems if not treated. Luckily, Optometry has made progress in developing new treatments such as orthokeratology contact lenses for controlling myopia.
At our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall, our experienced Calgary Optometrists use these advanced lenses to help patients deal with their myopia effectively. Our team of eye professionals is dedicated to providing complete eye care solutions that are tailored to each person's specific needs.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at orthokeratology lenses and how they can help control myopia. We'll explain how these lenses work and why they're so important in treating myopia. We'll also give you some advice on how to take care of your orthokeratology lenses and handle any emergencies that may come up while wearing them.
Note: This article is meant to give you an idea of what orthokeratology contact lenses can do for managing myopia and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you need help with diagnosis or treatment, it's always best to see a qualified healthcare provider. Call our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall to book a myopia control eye exam with one of our top Optometrists.
Understanding Myopia With Calgary Optometrists Near You
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness or short-sightedness, is a common vision condition. Individuals with myopia experience blurred distance vision while near vision remains clear. This disorder affects a significant portion of the global population, hence it's importance to understand.
The development of myopia is attributed to two key factors: axial length and corneal topography. Axial length refers to the distance from the front to the back of the eye. An elongated axial length results in light focusing in front of the retina instead of directly on it, causing myopia. Corneal topography, on the other hand, relates to the shape of the cornea. An irregularly shaped cornea can also cause light to focus incorrectly, leading to myopia.
Diagnosing myopia involves a process known as cycloplegic refraction. This is more commonly known as a dilation eye exam, but with the purpose of getting an accurate prescription. This method temporarily paralyzes the focusing muscles in the eyes using special eye drops, providing an accurate measure of refractive error without the interference of eye strain or fatigue. Some of the best Calgary Optometrists will use cyclo dilation eye exams to confidently nail down prescription eye glasses.
Knowing how myopia develops and is diagnosed aids in exploring effective treatment options such as Orthokeratology contact lenses, which will be discussed in depth in subsequent sections.
How Orthokeratology Contact Lenses Work for Myopia Control
Orthokeratology contact lenses are a special type of contact lenses that have been gaining recognition in the realm of myopia control. Unlike standard soft lenses, these contacts are crafted from a gas-permeable material and designed with a unique reverse geometry to target the cornea.
When you wear orthokeratology lenses overnight, they gently exert pressure on your cornea, causing it to flatten gradually. This reshaping process is temporary but can last throughout the day, allowing you to see clearly without any visual aids. Some of the top Optometrists were involved in researching these lenses when they first came out decades ago. The models being used currently by experienced Calgary Eye Doctors are more advanced and have higher success rates on first fits.
Key Differences Between Orthokeratology and Soft Contact Lenses
It's important to note that orthokeratology lenses work differently from regular soft contact lenses in addressing myopia:
Soft contact lenses correct vision by altering light refraction at the lens level.
Orthokeratology lenses reshape the cornea itself to alter light refraction.
The Added Benefit of Myopia Control
While both types of lenses can provide visual correction, orthokeratology has an additional advantage: it also controls myopia progression. Various studies have shown that consistent use of orthokeratology lenses can slow down the lengthening of your eyeball (known as axial elongation) – a major factor in myopia progression. This makes these lenses an effective tool in managing this common vision problem. There are soft contact lens options for myopia control too, but they are specialized contact lenses. Our Southcentre Mall Calgary Eye Clinic carries these specialized lenses. Call today if you would like to book a walk-in eye exam and explore soft contact lenses for myopia control with our highly trained Calgary Optometrists.
Who Can Benefit from Orthokeratology?
The effectiveness of orthokeratology for myopia control may vary depending on factors such as your initial degree of nearsightedness and the flexibility of your cornea. However, this treatment has been particularly beneficial for individuals with low to moderate myopia.
Fun Fact: Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a refractive error that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear.
If you're looking for a non-surgical and reversible method to correct your vision while managing myopia, orthokeratology contact lenses could be a suitable option for you. If you are debating orthokeratology, we recommend you do a search for the best Optometrist in Calgary and head over to the Calgary Eye Clinic near you to discuss this option further.
The Role of Orthokeratology in Myopia Control Treatment
Orthokeratology contact lenses play a crucial role in controlling the progression of myopia. They are designed to reshape the cornea, which affects how light enters and focuses in the eye, resulting in a myopia control effect.
Understanding the Effectiveness of Orthokeratology
Several studies have been conducted to determine how effective these innovative lenses are in managing myopia. One notable study focused on axial length growth, a key factor in myopia progression. It compared the rate of axial length growth in children wearing orthokeratology contact lenses versus those using regular distance glasses.
The results of this study provided strong evidence that orthokeratology is more effective in managing myopia:
Children wearing orthokeratology lenses experienced significantly slower axial length growth.
The comparison between the two groups showed almost a 50% reduction in axial elongation for those using orthokeratology lenses.
This significant decrease not only confirms the effectiveness of orthokeratology in controlling myopia but also highlights its potential to reduce the risks associated with high myopia, such as retinal detachment and glaucoma. Some of the top Optometrists in Calgary utilize orthokeratology contact lenses to manage myopia with their patients.
A Growing Body of Evidence
The evidence supporting the effectiveness of orthokeratology extends beyond this particular study. Numerous research studies have reported similar findings, solidifying these specialized contact lenses as a promising tool against myopia progression. When worn consistently, they offer an efficient way to manage myopia, especially for children and young adults. Multiple Calgary Eye Clinics are involved in myopia control research and can provide patients the eye care they need.
Maintaining the Benefits: Orthokeratology Contact Lens Care Tips
Myopia control doesn't end with the application of orthokeratology contact lenses. A vital part of the successful outcome relies on regular maintenance and consistent follow-up visits to your Optometrist.
Consistent Follow-up Visits With Calgary Optometrists
Follow-up visits allow your Optometrist to monitor the myopia control progress, make necessary adjustments to the lens design, and ensure that the lenses are fitting well. An ideal schedule for these check-ups is every six months. Timely eye examinations can help detect any potential issues or complications at an early stage, ensuring optimal vision and eye health. Depending on the scenario, eye exam costs in Calgary for follow ups may be covered under Alberta Health Care.
Regular Maintenance
Maintenance of orthokeratology lenses involves cleaning, disinfecting, and storing them properly. This routine helps prolong the lifespan of your lenses and ensures they continue to provide effective myopia control.
Proper Hygiene
Proper hygiene practices are essential for safe lens wear. This includes washing hands thoroughly before handling the lenses and using only recommended cleaning solutions.
Here are some quick tips:
Always wash your hands before handling your lenses.
Use fresh cleaning solution each time you clean your lenses.
Never use water or saliva to clean or store your lenses.
Ensure that your storage case is clean, replace it every three months.
Avoid sleeping while wearing your lenses unless advised by your Calgary Optometrist.
Efficient myopia management involves a team effort between you and your Optometrist. Regular care and maintenance of orthokeratology contact lenses significantly contribute towards achieving desired results in controlling myopia progression. Make sure to ask your Calgary Eye Doctor any questions you have about orhtokeratology contact lenses. If they are hard to reach, we recommend calling their Calgary Eye Clinic to chat with their staff.
Addressing Eye Emergencies Caused by Contact Lens Wear
As a contact lens wearer, it's essential to be aware of potential eye emergencies that can arise. These emergencies may manifest as:
Red eye: Often caused by wearing dirty contact lenses, leading to an infection known as conjunctivitis. Symptoms include redness, swelling, and discharge from the eye.
Itchy eye: Could indicate an allergic reaction or dry eyes. Allergens or insufficient tear production may result in itching along with a burning sensation.
Blurry vision: A sudden onset of blurry vision while wearing contact lenses can indicate a serious issue like a corneal ulcer. This condition requires immediate attention as it may cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. Even the best Optometrist in Calgary will still use an eye exam chart to identify if this is an issue.
Eye pain: Especially if accompanied by light sensitivity or vision changes, this might be a symptom of more serious conditions like corneal abrasions or even keratitis, which is inflammation of the cornea.
Remember, these symptoms are not to be taken lightly and should never be ignored. They could be signalling underlying issues that require immediate professional attention. Call our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall to book an emergency walk-in eye exam with one of our experienced Calgary Optometrists. Remember the eye exam cost in Calgary is covered for emergency eye exams by Alberta Health Care, thus making it a free eye exam with coverage.
Seeking Professional Help
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it's crucial to seek help from our Calgary Optometrists at Southcentre Mall right away. Our team is well-equipped to handle these emergencies promptly and effectively.
Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in preventing further complications and safeguarding your overall vision health.
The Expert Advantage: Calgary Optometrists and Myopia Control
Access to eye care is a critical component in managing myopia, and within Alberta, health care provisions work to the patient's advantage. Eye exams, an essential step in diagnosing and monitoring myopia, are covered by Alberta health care, thus are free for patients. This initiative ensures that individuals have the opportunity to receive professional eye assessments without the barrier of cost.
At our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall, expert Calgary Optometrists are highly trained in the field of myopia control treatments. These eye care professionals utilize their extensive knowledge and the latest advancements in orthokeratology to offer personalized care strategies. Their expertise includes:
Tailoring Ortho-K Lenses: Designing custom orthokeratology lenses for optimal corneal reshaping to control myopia progression.
Monitoring Treatment Efficacy: Conducting regular follow-up assessments to ensure the effectiveness of myopia control interventions.
Why Choosing Qualified Optometrists Matters
Selecting qualified Calgary Optometrists is crucial for effective myopia management. The Optometrists in our Southcentre Mall Calgary Eye Clinic not only possess the requisite qualifications but also engage in continuous education to stay abreast of evolving myopia control methodologies.
Their dedication to their craft means patients receive cutting-edge treatment options coupled with compassionate care.
A Trusted Resource for Myopia Control
For parents considering myopia control options for their children or individuals seeking to manage their own myopic progression, our Calgary Eye Clinic represents a trusted resource within the community. With a commitment to excellence and patient-focused outcomes, our team stands ready to guide each patient through their journey towards better visual health.
Conclusion
Dealing with myopia progression rates can be worrisome, but there's no need to panic. The use of orthokeratology contact lenses offers a promising solution for controlling myopia and this treatment is readily available in our Southcentre Mall Calgary Eye Clinic.
Our expert Calgary Optometrists are equipped with the knowledge and experience to guide patients through this journey towards better vision. So if you're worried about myopia, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help!
To those grappling with myopia concerns, remember, help is just around the corner. Trust our team of eye specialists to provide quality care tailored to your specific needs. Book an appointment today and let's explore how orthokeratology contact lenses can improve your vision and quality of life.
Call our Eye Clinic in Southcentre Mall Calgary, to book a walk-in eye exam with one of our top Eye Doctors.
