AEIWEARING contact lenses is one of the most popular ways of correcting nearsightedness or farsightedness. Eye experts agree that because of recent advances in technology, people can look forward to even safer and more comfortable use of contact lenses.

These breakthroughs were highlighted in the 7th Asia Cornea and Contact Lens Conference held in Boracay. Scientists, ophthalmologists and optometrists from different parts of the world presented their research on the future of contact lenses. According to Dr. Jesse Caguioa, president and CEO of the Philippine College of Optometrists, which hosted the event, and also the chief optometrist of Asian Eye Institute (AEI), one of the conference’s revelations on the future of contact lens material is silicone hydrogel.

The silicone hydrogel contact lens allows eyes to breathe by permitting more oxygen to pass through, thereby reducing the occurrence of dry eyes, the risk of eye infection and the incidence of complications. Another development is the commercial release of wavefront daily contact lenses, which not only deliver clearer vision, but also prevent worsening of nearsightedness.

AEI specialists Dr. Robert Ang and Dr. Harvey Uy shared ways of preventing contact lens-related eye infections and allergies. Dr. Ang said that regular cleaning and avoiding sleeping overnight while wearing contact lenses can help prevent related infections. To treat contact lensrelated allergy symptoms, Dr. Uy advised to apply cold compress to the affected eye as first aid and to stop using the contact lens if eye gets continuously itchy. “Users should dispose of contact lenses on time as prescribed by their optometrist. It is also important that users select the most suitable contact lens solution for their contact lenses; it should not just be biocompatible with the eye, it must also be compatible with the contact lens material,” Dr. Caguioa added. For more info, call AEI at 898-2020 or visit www.asianeyeinstitute.com.