Introduction
Orthokeratology or ortho-k is a modern approach to correcting refractive errors, particularly myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Many patients favor it because of its noninvasiveness and affordability compared to surgical solutions.
It is done to temporarily reshape the cornea and help those with refractive errors see clearly without prescription lenses. Patients will have to wear special ortho-k lenses at night when they sleep, and their cornea will be reshaped during this period. When they wake up, they will take off the lenses, but they will not experience blurry vision or other signs of refractive errors.
Since the lenses touch the eyes directly, there is an increased risk of eye infection. This is why Asian Eye Institute has summarized everything you need to know about proper ortho-k contact lens hygiene. Read on to learn how to protect your ortho-k lenses and prevent eye-related problems when using them.
Why Is Ortho-K Contact Lens Hygiene Necessary?
If you use normal contact lenses, it is necessary to exercise proper hygiene to avoid infections and other eye-related problems. The same is true if you wear ortho-k lenses. Here are some reasons you must practice proper hygiene when putting on and taking off the lenses:
Protect Your Eyes From Infection
Microbial keratitis is a condition that sometimes develops in people who wear contact lenses. Due to certain factors, like improper use of the lenses, the cornea can get scarred or infected. Germs, bacteria, and parasitic microorganisms can get into the eye and damage the cornea, leading to vision problems.
Ortho-k users are not immune to microbial keratitis. It is uncommon, but it can still develop in patients who do not practice good hygiene when wearing the lenses. A few symptoms of microbial keratitis are redness in the eye and blurry vision. If you think you might have this condition, contact your ortho-k specialist immediately for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Avoid Contamination of the Lens Solution
The ortho-k cleaning solution you use is specially made for orthokeratology lenses. Keeping it uncontaminated is critical if you wish to avoid contracting eye infections and other related problems.
To avoid contamination of the liquid, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before getting the lenses out of the case. It is also advisable to replace your ortho-k lens case monthly to lower the risk of contamination.
Prevent the Lenses From Getting Dirty
Ortho-k lenses directly touch your eyes, so they should remain clean at all times. Your doctor will provide you with ortho-k multipurpose cleaning solution and lens lubricant to keep your ortho-k lenses clean. The multipurpose cleaning solution is used as a rinsing, cleaning, and soaking agent to disinfect the lenses. Meanwhile, the lubricant is a special eye drop needed to lubricate the eyes when putting and taking off the lenses.
Even if you already have the ortho-k multipurpose solution and lens lubricant, practicing the proper way of wearing the lenses is still necessary. Be sure to follow these steps:
- Wash your hands thoroughly and dry them using a paper towel or lint-free fabric.
- Open the case and gently take out the ortho-k lens. Use the lens lubricant, and then place the lens onto the eye.
- Blink and move your eyes to see if the lens is centered and placed correctly. If not, move it to the center using your index finger.
- Put the other lens on using the same method.
Here is a step-by-step guide that you can follow when taking the lenses off:
- Wash your hands properly and dry them.
- Get the case ready, along with the disinfecting solution in it. Gently remove the lens with your thumb and index finger. If your doctor provided a suction tool, you can use that, too.
- Place the lens into the case with the disinfecting solution and close it tightly.
- Repeat the steps to take off the second lens.
Proper Care of Your Ortho-K Lenses
Protecting your ortho-k lenses from damage is necessary for prolonged use. Here are some helpful tips:
- Follow Ortho-K Cleaning Instructions Strictly – Your doctor should teach you how to clean your ortho-k lenses when you get them. Listen to their instructions carefully and follow them religiously to avoid contaminating or damaging your lenses.
- Do Not Use Other Cleaning Solutions – You will be given an ortho-k lens disinfecting solution and cleaner to sanitize the lenses before and after every use. Do not use tap water, regular contact lens solution, or other cleaning agents to disinfect your ortho-k lenses.
- Do Not Drop the Lenses in the Sink – Take extra precautions when wearing the lenses to avoid dropping them on the bathroom floor or sink. If you do, disinfect them thoroughly with the lens disinfecting solution before putting them onto your eyes or back into the case.
Get Ortho-K Lenses From a Trusted Eye Care Center
Asian Eye Institute provides excellent orthokeratology services. If you have any problems with your ortho-k lenses, our doctors can help you right away and resolve the issue before it worsens.
You can visit our physical locations around Metro Manila to speak with our doctors. Simply schedule an appointment beforehand to ensure you will be attended to at your desired time. Alternatively, you can take advantage of our online consultation options.
Our teleconsultation services allow you to have one-on-one virtual sessions with our ophthalmologists and/or ortho-k specialists. This option is available for patients who might be too busy to visit our physical locations. It works like any normal face-to-face consultation where the doctor provides medical advice and prescriptions.
Conclusion
Orthokeratology provides patients with a noninvasive way to correct refractive errors, like myopia, astigmatism, and hyperopia. However, since the lenses are directly placed onto the eyes, it is crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions on how to correctly put them on and take them off. Ortho-k contact lens hygiene is also necessary to avoid eye infections and other related problems.
If you still experience irritation and other eye-related concerns that might stem from using your ortho-k lenses, consult your doctor as soon as possible. At Asian Eye Institute, we provide convenient ways for you to speak with our ophthalmologists and orthokeratology specialists. Contact our team today for more information regarding our services.
