starbursts while night driving due to astigmatism

Night Driving and Astigmatism: Can Glasses or Lenses Help?

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Driving at night presents unique challenges, and for those with astigmatism, these challenges can be even more pronounced. Fortunately, there are specialized solutions, including glasses and lenses, available to help improve night driving for those with astigmatism.

The Impact of Astigmatism on Night Driving

Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens in the eye, leading to distorted or blurred vision. This condition is especially troublesome at night, where glare, starburst vision, and reduced contrast sensitivity can make driving more difficult.

Astigmatism can significantly affect driving at night in several ways. One of the most common issues is glare, where bright lights, such as headlights from oncoming traffic, appear to have halos or streaks around them, making it difficult to focus on the road.

Additionally, blurred vision becomes more pronounced in low-light conditions, which can affect your ability to read road signs or identify hazards.

Reduced contrast sensitivity is another challenge, making it harder to distinguish objects or obstacles in dimly lit areas.

When you’re driving at night with astigmatism, these visual disturbances can be dangerous, potentially increasing the risk of accidents.

Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate these issues. Two of the simplest ways to mitigate visibility issues include contacts for astigmatism, specifically toric contact lenses, and specialized glasses (like glasses with an anti-reflective (AR) coating and nighttime driving glasses).

Help With Astigmatism and Driving at Night

One of the most effective solutions for improving night driving for those with astigmatism is wearing glasses with specialized lenses designed for nighttime vision, which can help address glare and improve visual clarity.

To get the most benefit, it’s important to consult the optometrists at Kirman Eye. They can recommend the right prescription and possibly anti-glare coatings or tinted lenses that will make your nighttime driving safer and more comfortable.

Here are some of the key lens technology options available through Kirman Eye:

 

  1. Anti-Reflective Glasses: Glasses with an anti-reflective (AR) coating are particularly beneficial for night driving and astigmatism. The coating reduces glare caused by headlights, streetlights, and other bright sources of light, improving contrast and clarity. This is especially important when dealing with eye glare problems at night.

 

  1. Nighttime Driving Glasses: These glasses are designed to enhance contrast and reduce glare. Some nighttime glasses come with yellow or amber tints, which can improve visibility in low-light conditions and reduce eye strain. Night driving glasses can increase the transmittance of light through the lens to help it reach the eye.

 

  1. Contact Lenses for Astigmatism: For those who prefer not to wear glasses, contact lenses for astigmatism come in a variety, including daily replacement and monthly replacement lenses. There are also contact lenses with blue light filtering, which can help with night driving.

Why Do I see Starbursts When I Drive at Night?

One of the visual issues commonly experienced by those with astigmatism, especially at night, is starburst vision. This refers to the phenomenon where bright lights, such as car headlights or streetlights, appear to have halos or star-like patterns around them.

Starburst vision occurs because light entering the eye is scattered due to the irregular shape of the cornea or lens. It can be particularly bothersome at night or in low-light environments, making it difficult to focus on the road.

This visual distortion may cause a driver to instinctively steer toward the bright lights as a point of focus.

While astigmatism is the most common cause of starburst vision, several other factors can contribute, including:

Cataracts: A clouded lens in the eye that causes light to scatter, often resulting in blurry or halo-like vision.

Refractive Surgery: After procedures like LASIK, some people experience temporary starburst vision as the cornea is reshaped.

Dry Eyes: A lack of lubrication on the surface of the eye can cause blurred vision, exacerbating the starburst effect.

Manage Astigmatism & Improve Nighttime Driving

If night driving and astigmatism are causing significant challenges for you, schedule an eye appointment with a Kirman Eye care professional. An optometrist can perform a comprehensive eye exam, assess the severity of your condition, and recommend the most effective treatment options.

We can help you choose the right contact lenses or glasses to address both astigmatism and night driving issues.

Additionally, regular eye exams are essential to monitor your vision and adjust prescriptions as needed. If you’re struggling with night driving, your eye care provider may suggest nighttime driving glasses or other treatments to improve your safety on the road.

Whether you choose anti-reflective glasses, nighttime driving glasses, or contact lenses for night driving, these solutions can significantly reduce the discomfort caused by eye glare problems and improve your overall vision.

toric lenses for astigmatism

Can Contact Lenses Correct Astigmatism? The Facts

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If you’ve ever wondered whether contact lenses can effectively correct astigmatism, you’re not alone. Many of us seek clearer vision, but the question remains: Can those tiny, transparent discs really address the unique challenges posed by astigmatism? Well, let’s dive into the world of optometry and eye care to find out.

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multifocal contact lenses

Multifocal Contact Lenses – What Are They & How Do They Work?

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Understanding Multifocal Contact Lenses and How They Work

As we all grow older and the advancing years bring subtle changes to our vision, we may be inspired to explore the newest and best options for our eye care. When new limitations in our vision result in the potential need for bifocal glasses, it can also inspire one to ask the question: “What are multifocal contact lenses, and how do they work?” So, let’s dive in.

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corneal refractive therapy

What is Corneal Refractive Therapy and how does it work?

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If you’re tired of dealing with glasses or daytime contact lenses and are looking for an alternative, then Corneal Refractive Therapy (CRT) may be what you’re looking for. But what exactly is CRT, and how does it work?

Corneal Refractive Therapy, also known as orthokeratology, is a non-surgical process that uses specially designed contact lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea while you sleep. These lenses gently flatten the cornea, correcting nearsightedness and astigmatism. By wearing the lenses overnight, you can enjoy improved vision during the day without the need for glasses or contacts.

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contact lenses

Contact Lenses for Vision Correction: The Basics

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What Are Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are thin, transparent discs that are worn in the eye to enhance vision. These lenses rest on the tear film that covers the cornea.

Similar to eyeglasses, contact lenses correct vision problems caused by refractive errors. A refractive error occurs when the eye fails to properly refract, bend, or focus light, resulting in a blurred image.

Contact lenses can improve vision for individuals with the following refractive errors:

  • Myopia (nearsightedness)
  • Hyperopia (farsightedness)
  • Astigmatism (distorted vision)
  • Presbyopia (age-related changes in near vision)

Types of Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are made from various types of plastic, with hard and soft lenses being the most common.

Hard contact lenses:

The most prevalent type of hard contact lens is the rigid gas permeable (RGP) lens. These lenses are typically composed of plastic and other materials. They maintain their shape firmly while allowing oxygen to pass through to the eye.

RGP lenses are particularly beneficial for individuals with astigmatism and keratoconus, a condition characterized by an unevenly curved cornea. People who have allergies or tend to develop protein deposits on their lenses may also prefer RGP lenses.

Soft contact lenses:

The majority of individuals opt for soft contact lenses due to their enhanced comfort and a wider range of options. Here are various types of soft lenses:

 Daily wear contacts: These lenses are worn while awake and removed before sleep. Many are disposable, meaning that a new pair is used each day. Alternatively, there are options that last longer and only need replacement once a week, every two weeks, or every month. If you only wear contacts occasionally, some ophthalmologists recommend disposable daily-wear lenses.

 Extended-wear contacts: These lenses can be worn overnight but should be removed for cleaning at least once a week. However, fewer eye doctors recommend extended wear contacts due to the increased risk of serious eye infections.

Toric contacts: These lenses correct vision for individuals with astigmatism, although not as effectively as hard lenses. Toric lenses can be worn daily or for extended periods, but they often carry a higher cost than other soft contact lenses.

Colored (tinted) contacts: Vision-correcting contact lenses can be tinted to change the color of the eyes. They are available as daily wear, extended wear, and toric lenses.

Decorative (cosmetic) contacts: These lenses are primarily used to alter the appearance of the eyes but do not correct vision. They include colored contacts and lenses that can make the eyes resemble vampires, animals, or other characters. Additionally, they are utilized to conceal certain eye problems present from birth or caused by injuries. Although they do not correct vision, a prescription is required for decorative contacts. These lenses must be regularly and thoroughly cleaned as instructed to prevent dangerous eye infections.

It’s important to note that decorative contact lenses can lead to serious eye problems. Your eyes are incredibly important and delicate. Ensure that your contact lenses are medically safe and FDA-approved.

Contacts should not be treated as fashion accessories or cosmetics. They are medical devices that necessitate a prescription from an eye care professional.

Non-prescription costume contacts can result in cuts, open sores, and potentially blinding infections in the eyes. In addition to experiencing severe pain, surgical intervention such as a corneal transplant may be required, and in some cases, permanent blindness may occur.

If you desire decorative contact lenses, consult an eye care professional.

Different Types of Contact Lenses

Presbyopia Contacts: These contact lenses are specifically designed to address the vision issues that typically arise after age 40, making it difficult to see nearby objects clearly. Various options are available for these corrective lenses, including bifocal or multifocal contacts and monovision correction. In monovision correction, one eye wears a lens for near vision while the other eye wears a lens for distance vision.

Hybrid Contact Lenses: These lenses have a rigid center surrounded by a soft outer ring. They offer the sharp vision provided by rigid lenses while ensuring the comfort of soft lenses.

Scleral Contact Lenses: Gas permeable (GP) lenses that cover the cornea and rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. These lenses are larger in size and are effective in correcting vision problems caused by irregularly shaped corneas, such as corneal scars, keratoconus, or previous surgeries. Some individuals may find them more comfortable than regular GP lenses.

Bandage Lenses: These contacts do not have a prescription but cover the cornea’s surface for added comfort after an eye injury or surgery.

Proper Care for Contact Lenses

It is crucial to clean, disinfect, and store your contact lenses correctly to avoid the risk of serious eye infections. Follow the instructions provided by your eye care provider precisely.

Risks Associated with Contact Lenses

Wearing old or ill-fitting contact lenses can lead to eye scratches and the growth of blood vessels into the cornea, a dangerous condition that poses a threat to your vision.

Using certain eye drops with contact lenses can also cause complications. It is advisable to avoid using any eye drops while wearing contacts, except for wetting drops or preservative-free lubricating drops recommended by your eye doctor.

If you experience symptoms such as intense redness, pain, excessive watering, light sensitivity, blurry vision, or discharge (ooze or pus) from your eyes, it is essential to remove your contact lenses and promptly seek assistance from your eye doctor. These symptoms could indicate serious eye problems.

Taking Proper Care of Your Contacts

Always clean and disinfect any contact lens you remove from your eye before reinserting it. Various types of cleansing systems are available, so consult your eye doctor to determine the appropriate cleaning solutions for your specific lenses, considering factors such as lens type, allergies, and protein deposits.

To prevent dangerous eye infections, it is crucial to clean and store your lenses correctly. Follow these guidelines:

Cleaning and Storage Instructions:

Adhere to the schedule provided by your eye doctor for wearing and replacing your lenses.

Follow the directions given by your doctor, the contact lens manufacturer, and the lens cleaning solution manufacturer regarding cleaning and storing your lenses.

If your lenses have been stored for a long time, consult the instructions to see if re-disinfection is necessary before wearing them. Never wear contact lenses stored for 30 days or longer without re-disinfecting.

Have regular eye exams: To ensure proper fit and prescription accuracy, it is important to visit your eye doctor regularly. Over time, contact lenses can warp, and changes in your cornea can occur.

Avoid water contact: Refrain from wearing contacts while showering, swimming, using a hot tub, or engaging in activities where water may enter your eyes. Contact lenses and water are not compatible.

Don’t sleep with daily wear lenses: Do not sleep while wearing daily wear contact lenses. Remove them before sleeping and follow the recommended usage guidelines.

Clean and rewet carefully:

  • Before handling your contact lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them using a lint-free towel.
  • Regardless of the type of lens cleaning solution you use, employ a “rub and rinse” cleaning method.
  • Gently rub your contact lenses with clean fingers, then rinse them with the solution before soaking.
  • Never moisten your contacts with saliva or put them in your mouth. Saliva is not a sterile solution.
  • Avoid rinsing or storing your contacts in water, whether it’s tap water or sterile water.
  • Homemade saline solutions should never be used.
  • Saline solution and rewetting drops are not suitable for disinfecting your lenses. They do not possess disinfectant properties.
  • Use a fresh batch of solution each time you clean and disinfect your contact lenses. Refrain from reusing or topping off old solution.
  • Do not transfer contact lens solution into a different container, as it will compromise its sterility.
  • Ensure that the tip of the solution bottle does not come into contact with any surface. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Care for your contact lens case:

Maintain the cleanliness of your contact lens case. Rinse it with sterile contact lens solution (not tap water) and leave it open to air dry.

Replace your contact lens case at least every three months, or immediately if it becomes cracked or damaged.

Are Contacts Suitable for You?

While millions of people choose to wear contact lenses, they may not be suitable for everyone. You may not be able to wear contacts for the following reasons:

  • Frequent occurrences of eye infections.
  • Severe allergies or persistent dry eyes that are challenging to manage.
  • Working or residing in excessively dusty environments.
  • Inability to properly care for your contact lenses.

For comfortable and clear vision with contact lenses, it is essential that your cornea and tear film are healthy. Commitment to proper care and timely replacement of lenses is crucial. Consult with your ophthalmologist or eye care professional to discuss your vision needs and expectations. They can guide you in determining whether contact lenses are a suitable option for you.

If you are interested in obtaining contact lenses, schedule an appointment with your primary care physician to begin the process. At Kirman Eye we can provide the best technology, the latest scientific information, and the highest quality treatment available. We are always happy to answer your questions and will work with you to find the ideal solution for you.

Your partners at Kirman Eye are passionately dedicated to providing our patients with the best and most effective eye-care options available when anticipating all of your optical needs.

Contact us to work with you today!

Considering Colored Contact Lenses? 3 Things to Know

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Are you thinking about getting colored contacts? There’s a lot to know about these important visual tools. Colored contacts can help improve your vision and make your eyes look more beautiful. If you’re new to colored contacts and not sure whether this is the right visual accessory for you, this information can help. Here’s what you need to know about getting colored contacts in Hummelstown, PA.

1. Prescription Colored Contacts are Available

Prescription contacts come in colored and non-colored versions, so if changing your eye color is important and you’d like to improve your vision at the same time, you can do that. In order to get the right colored contacts for you, you’ll need to talk to your eye doctor. Your eye doctor will need to:

  • Assess your need and the level of prescription required to correct your vision
  • Help you choose a type of contact that’s right for you
  • Size the contact properly for your eyes

This is why it’s important to work with the right eye doctor. To get the right contacts, you’ll need to ensure that you’re working with a professional who can accurately assess your need for colored contacts, determine the right size contacts for you, and coach you through the process of getting colored contacts that will work well for you.

2. It’s Important to Choose the Right Tint and Color

The tint of colored contacts makes a big difference. Opaque colored contacts cover the color of your eye completely. If you have dark eyes, this is the type of contacts that will be most correct for you. Other colored contacts (visibility tint and enhancement tints) change the color of your eyes in more subtle ways.

3. Colored Contact Lenses Need Regular Care

Colored contacts need regular care, just like normal contacts without coloring.

  • Clean and disinfect your contacts regularly. Your eye doctor can show you how and tell you the frequency with which this needs to be done.
  • Wash your hands before touching your lenses.
  • Replace your contacts when your eye doctor tells you to.

Want to Know More About Colored Contacts? Call Today

Prescription colored contacts can help improve your vision while also helping you achieve your cosmetic goals. Contact your eye doctor in Hummelstown PA to find out more about colored contacts today.

 

Bifocal Contact Lenses: An Introduction with FAQs

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Bifocal contact lenses allow people who normally must rely on bifocal eyeglasses to get rid of their glasses and still see just as well in their day-to-day lives. If you wear bifocal eyeglasses, it is a good idea to talk to your eye doctor about bifocal lenses. Here is a look at some of the general questions you may have and the answers you will want to know.

Who is a good candidate for bifocal contact lenses?

Bifocal lenses tend to be a good option for patients who have been diagnosed with presbyopia, which is a condition that affects your ability to see objects up-close. If you already have bifocal lenses, you may have presbyopia or another condition that affects your vision capabilities when it comes to looking at objects in close proximity. People tend to be the best candidates for bifocal contact lenses as well if:

  • They do not have other eye health conditions like dry eye syndrome
  • They are comfortable with wearing contact lenses; not every patient is comfortable
  • They are vigilant about eye health, do not smoke, and can follow guidelines for changing lenses

How do bifocal contact lenses work?

Bifocal contact lenses work in much the same way as bifocal eyeglasses, they have separated sections that offer different optical adjustments. Therefore, you will see things differently depending on what direction you are focusing your eyes. For example, if you are looking downward, as you would while reading, you will see things in a certain way, but if you are looking straight ahead, you will see things a certain way.

Are bifocal contact lenses expensive?

Bifocal contact lenses can be a bit more expensive than traditional lenses simply because they are made differently with specific features. Nevertheless, the lenses are considered affordable and may be covered by certain types of medical insurance.

Let’s Talk About Specialty Contact Lenses in Hummelstown

Trading in your bifocal eyeglasses for bifocal contact lenses can really be a positive change in your life. Even though not every optometric patient is a good candidate for contact lenses, many are. Reach out to us at Kirman Eye in Hummelstown, PA to schedule an appointment to discuss contact lens options for you.