subject: Daily-wear Lenses Vs. Extended-wear Lenses: What Works For You? [print this page] Contact lenses are gods gift to those of us with less than perfect vision. Not only are contact lenses more convenient than spectacles, but they also have cosmetic and prescriptive uses. Contact lenses are of two types: daily wear contact lenses and extended-wear lenses. The two lenses have different uses, and you need to be aware of the function of each type of lens to decide which one is best for you.
Daily Wear Contact Lenses
Daily wear contact lenses are designed to be worn every day, and are to be removed before sleeping at night. These soft disposable contact lenses can be used for a number of weeks. After taking the lenses off at night, they need to be immersed in a liquid that keeps them clean and moist. This also makes the daily wear contact lenses a more hygienic option in terms of usage when compared to the extended-wear contact lenses. These lenses are usually less expensive than the extended-wear ones. Generally, the daily wear lenses need to be replaced with fresh ones at regular intervals.
Extended-wear Contact Lenses
Extended wear lenses can be used continuously, day and night, without having to remove them at night before you go to sleep. This makes these lenses more convenient to use. These lenses are designed to let oxygen reach the cornea, even when you sleep, thus ensuring the cornea stays healthy. However, it is still recommended that you only go for an occasional 24-hour use. These lenses need to be cleaned regularly since the continuous wear can lead to dirt and micro-organism built-up in the lenses. These lenses also need to be replaced with fresh ones at regular intervals for best use.
If you are constantly on the move, or hate having to remove lenses every night, then the extended-wear contact lenses are a good option for you. On the other hand, if your eyes tend to itch and cost is also a factor for you, you can go for disposable lenses.
The best way to choose the contact lenses that would be most suitable for you is by first identifying your primary need from the lenses. All types of eye contact lenses, whether daily wear or extended-wear have several advantages over spectacles. They dont fog up or get wet in the rain, are more convenient, and dont slip off or get lost! Choose the lens type that that suits you best and keep your eyes happy!
