Many children with vision problems struggle with wearing glasses, especially if they are into sports or feel self-conscious. As a result, parents wonder if contact lenses could be a better option for their child, but at the same time, they also worry about safety.
While contact lPediatric Eye Doctorenses offer freedom and improved vision, they also come with responsibilities, especially for children. However, with the right care and consultation with a pediatric eye doctor from a known hospital like Susrut Eye Foundation and Research Centre, contact lenses are an effective alternative solution to spectacles.
In this blog, we will discuss how safe contact lenses are for children, factors that parents should consider and the healthy routines that need to be followed to prevent eye infections.
What are Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses are thin and round and are worn directly on the surface of the eyes to correct refractive errors like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. They are also worn for cosmetic purposes, such as changing eye colour or enhancing appearance, particularly among young adults.
Is it Appropriate for Kids to Wear Contact Lenses?
For children with refractive errors, spectacles are always the first option. However, if they are into sports, contact lenses can be considered, as they don’t break easily like glasses.
Many pediatric eye doctors agree that although there is no right age to wear contact lenses, they are generally not recommended for children before 10-12 years. Moreover, the decision also depends upon the child’s maturity to handle the lens with responsibility.
Factors to Look into Before Considering Contact Lenses for Your Child
As a parent, it is natural that you want the best vision solution for your child. However making the switch, there are certain factors that you must look into.
- Ability
Contact lenses require careful handling and proper cleaning; otherwise, they might lead to several eye problems, like irritation and infections. Assess if your child is able to follow the instructions to maintain them without supervision.
- Hygiene Practices
Lack of adequate hand washing is one of the major reasons behind contact lens-related eye complications. If your child tends to constantly touch or rub their eyes, contact lenses are not a good option. Poor hygiene is essential for the safe wearing of these lenses.
- Eye Health
Children who are prone to eye infections or dry eyes will experience discomfort while wearing contact lenses. Hence, it is best to consult a pediatric eye doctor who will conduct a thorough examination of your child’s eyes to determine if they are a good candidate or not.
- Parental Guidance
Parental involvement in the early stages of wearing contact lenses is very important. They should monitor their usage, ensure that the child is following hygiene, and even schedule a follow-up appointment with the doctor.
Healthy Routines for Children with Contact Lenses
A pediatric eye doctor at Susrut Eye Foundation and Research Centre suggests some essential daily routines that your child needs to follow while wearing contact lenses. These habits will not only protect their vision but also prevent complications.
- Ensure that your child always washes their hands with soap before handling contact lenses.
- Make them wear the lenses as prescribed by the doctor.
- Don’t let them sleep with contact lenses, as their prolonged use reduces oxygen supply to the eyes.
- Always clean the lenses with a fresh lens solution.
- Be sure to check if the lens is clean and replace it every 1 to 3 months as advised to prevent bacterial build-up.
- Remove the contact lens when your child is showering or bathing.
Conclusion
Contact lenses are an effective and convenient vision solution for your child only if used properly. With guidance from a pediatric eye doctor at Susrut Eye Foundation and Research Centre, your child can wear contact lenses safely and maintain their eye health.
Susrut has a team of specialised pediatric eye experts who are experienced in diagnosing and treating various vision disorders in children.