Yo! My name is Andy and this is my eye care blog. Your eyes are so important but it can be easy to take them for granted. I know that I didn't think twice about my eyes until I started to have problems with my vision. I kept getting headaches and I had trouble focusing on things. I went to see my doctor who referred me to an optometrist. The eye specialist did some tests and asked me some questions. He then said that my regular use of screens was straining my eyes. Since following the advice given to me, my eyes have been much healthier.
Orthokeratology, also called ortho-K, is a common corrective treatment for people who are nearsighted or far-sighted. Read on to find out more!
How does orthokeratology work?
Orthokeratology works by gently reshaping the cornea (the clear front window of your eye) to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness. To get started with ortho-K, an optometrist will first measure your eyes and choose the correct type of lens that will reshape your cornea. Then you'll be fitted with the ortho-K lenses that you wear at night for several nights in a row. During the night, the lenses will work their magic. When you awake, you can remove them and get on with your day. As time passes, you should begin to notice an improvement in your vision. The exact number of nights that ortho-K treatment is needed varies depending on each patient's prescriptions. Your optometrist will be able to offer further advice.
Why would you want to do ortho-K?
If you think your eyesight is not as good as it could be, ortho-K can make a difference for you. Ortho-K can help you see better and function more efficiently throughout the day. Your eyes will become less tired and you will feel more comfortable during the day when completing activities such as driving, reading, and writing. The vision correction improves your overall eye health and allows patients to return to work or school without contact lenses or glasses.
Will you have any side effects from wearing the lenses?
Ortho-K is safe and effective and has no long-term side effects. There are very few risks associated with treatment. Some patients experience mild eye irritation, dry eye, blurred vision, halos around lights at night, redness in the morning or temporary discomfort while sleeping. You can treat these symptoms with over-the-counter artificial tears. Some people may experience some slight sensitivity to light for a few days after beginning treatment, but this usually goes away after a few days. If you have any concerns about wearing these lenses, you should speak to an eye doctor for further advice.
How much does ortho-K cost?
Cost varies from one eye care professional to another. A consultation with the doctor is essential before treatment begins. Some insurance plans will cover ortho-K, but check with your insurance company first to ensure that orthokeratology is a covered benefit.
For more information, you should contact an optometrist today. They will be happy to discuss your eye health before booking you in for an initial assessment.
Share27 October 2021
