Pros and cons of wearing glasses. What do doctors think is better: contact lenses or glasses? All for and against both types of optics. General contraindications for wearing

Anna Mironova

Reading time: 10 minutes

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Lenses have long been an alternative to glasses, which many people suffering from vision problems were forced to refuse - glasses do not combine with an active lifestyle at all, and not everyone wants to look like a “bespectacled man”. And, it seems, contact lenses are an ideal modern solution to the problem. Read: . But is it really so? What is really better - glasses or contact lenses?

Glasses for vision correction - the pros and cons of glasses

The choice of glasses, of course, should only be done with the help of an ophthalmologist. It is categorically not recommended to wear glasses for mom, grandmother, or buy ready-made glasses - in this case, you run the risk of at least aggravating the problem of poor vision. So, What are the pros and cons of wearing glasses?

Points Benefits

• Image change.
• No direct contact with eyes.
• No need for thorough regular maintenance.
• A simple and effective method of vision correction.

Glasses Disadvantages

• The need to constantly carry them with you or on yourself.
• Side effects with the wrong choice of glasses, up to fainting.
• Distortion of vision when wearing them.
• Limitation of lateral vision due to temples.
• The risk of breaking, losing points at the moment when they are most needed.
• Changes in appearance.
• Reflection of light.
• Fogging due to temperature changes.
• The problem with buying glasses when the difference in eye vision is above 2.0 D.
• High cost, subject to high-quality and beautiful frames.

Advantages and disadvantages of contact lenses; contact lenses - pros and cons

Lenses were invented, first of all, for those who care about the aesthetic side of the issue. That is, vision correction that does not affect the appearance. Of course, this modern product has pros and cons.

Benefits of contact lenses

• Natural vision correction is the movement of the lens following the movement of your pupil.
• No distortion of vision - no reduction in vision, resizing, etc.
• Ease of wearing.
• Opportunity to engage in active sports.
• No dependence on weather conditions - rain lenses are not a hindrance.
• Aesthetics. The opportunity not only to refuse glasses that do not suit you at all, but to “correct” the color of the eyes, thanks to colored lenses.
• Better compliance with medical requirements for visual impairments. That is, the possibility of wearing them with a difference in vision of more than 2.0 D, etc.

Disadvantages of contact lenses

• It is not recommended to take a shower (bath) in them. Lime deposits in running hard water are an ideal environment for germs, so tap water on the lens surface is best avoided.
• Risk of damage to the upper layer of the cornea up to loss of vision.
• The development of inflammatory processes and erosions, the risk of infection against their background - with constant wear (for example, during working hours, throughout the week).
• Not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
• Risk of allergic reaction from lens solution.
• Reduction of free air access to the eyes.
• Not recommended for use in environments saturated with chemicals and dust.
• More difficult to care for and use than glasses.
• High cost, in comparison with glasses (more practical - laser vision correction).

Are there any contraindications for contact lenses? Cases when the choice is only for points

In the list of contraindications to wearing lenses - almost all eye diseases that concern the conjunctiva and cornea.

• Inflammatory diseases of the cornea/conjunctiva/eyelids.
• Blepharitis.
• Inflammation of the cornea.
• Conjunctivitis.
• Ptosis.
• Low sensitivity of the cornea.
• Xerophthalmia.
• Glaucoma.
• Asthma.
• Subluxation of the lens.
• Inflammation, infection, allergic eye processes.
• Dacryocyst.
• Strabismus at an angle over 15 degrees.
• Hay fever.
• Decreased/increased tearing.
• Certain types of professional activity.
• Chronical bronchitis.
• Tuberculosis and AIDS.
• Rhinitis.

It should be remembered that for any colds / viral diseases and inflammatory processes of the eyes, wearing lenses is strictly prohibited. For this period, it is better to use glasses.

Medications that are prohibited from wearing lenses(at the time of admission)

• Drugs for motion sickness.
• Diuretics.
• Medicines for colds.
• Antihistamines .

Contact lenses can cause allergies when taken oral contraceptives .

Who should opt for contact lenses over glasses?

Lenses are usually prescribed for medical purposes, or for certain indications relating to the professional, cosmetic or medical field.

For example, correction with soft contact lenses is gaining more and more popularity among drivers, which is not surprising. They are comfortable, hygienic, do not interfere with movement and do not limit the visual field. For drivers, correct vision correction is directly related to safety. Modern PureVision2 HD soft contact lenses provide high clarity of vision, absence of glare and halos, especially at night, as well as excellent oxygen access to the cornea of ​​the eye.

When are contact lenses recommended?

• To correct vision when it is impossible to do so with the help of glasses.
• With astigmatism.
• With lazy eye syndrome.
• With anisometropia.
• With moderate / high myopia, combined with astigmatism.
• With keratoconus.
• After cataract removal with monocular aphakia.

As for the children , indications for wearing lenses can be:

• Afakia.
• Strabismus.
• No effect of spectacle correction.
• Amblyopia.

Lenses are prescribed instead of glasses and with a certain type of activity :

• Sport.
• The medicine.
• Construction.

And other areas.

Compared to glasses lenses provide more complete vision correction which, of course, is of great importance when driving a car, etc.

Lenses are also used to hide existing eye defects (after trauma or congenital):

• Albinism.
• Scars / scars or thorns.
• Multicolored rainbow.

It would seem that the advantages of contact lenses over glasses are obvious: they do not spoil the face, do not distort images, do not restrict side vision and do not fog up. However, before making a choice in favor of the latter, it does not hurt to think carefully ...

At the same time, a mote that gets under the lens can cause a huge inconvenience: you have to remove the lenses and put them on again. Since the lenses are in direct contact with the cornea of ​​the eye, they can irritate the eyes.

In order not to harm yourself by wearing lenses, you must strictly follow a few important rules. First of all, you can only fit lenses with the help of a doctor and after a thorough medical examination of your eyes. In some eye diseases, wearing lenses is generally contraindicated.

Please read the instructions carefully before putting on your lenses. First you have to learn how to put them on and take them off. This is usually taught in a medical office where lenses are ordered. But not everyone succeeds right away. So at home you still have a long period of getting used to the lenses. Be patient and be prepared for the fact that you have to fiddle with them for a long time. In the early days, you may also have severe watery and sore eyes.

Remember that wearing lenses for longer than indicated in the instructions, and even more so, you should never go to bed in them! This can lead to vascular ingrowth into the cornea, malnutrition and other problems, up to complete loss of vision!

You can store removed contact lenses only in a special liquid, not forgetting to disinfect them. Lenses are not able to completely replace glasses, as it is not recommended to wear them for colds and some other diseases.

If you wear lenses, you should have regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist. Lenses need to be changed periodically, the period of wearing them is usually indicated in the instructions. If you begin to feel discomfort while wearing lenses, then it's time to go to the doctor.

Recently, researchers from the University of La Laguna (Canary Islands) came to the conclusion that the constant wearing of contact lenses can lead to a serious infectious disease - amoebic keratitis, which causes inflammation of the cornea and blindness. It is caused by amoeba Acanthamoeba found in soil and running water.

Recently, the incidence of amoebic keratitis has increased worldwide precisely because people began to wear contact lenses, scientists say. Amoebas get into lens containers when they are rinsed with tap water, and the solutions in which lenses are stored are not able to kill these microorganisms.

So is the game worth the candle? Before purchasing lenses, weigh the pros and cons. After all, the main thing is to keep your health.

- with very weak forms of myopia,

- allergy sufferers and asthmatics during periods of exacerbation,

- in the period of acute respiratory diseases,

- with conjunctivitis and other forms of infectious eye diseases.

Contraindications for wearing contact lenses are chronic diseases of the eyes and auxiliary eye apparatus (for example, incorrect eyelash growth, deformed eyelid), as well as severe chronic diseases (for example, severe diabetes mellitus).

Questions immediately arose: what lenses can I choose, will I have to spend my precious time caring for them?

Lenses hard and soft

Rigid lenses are a great way to stop the growth of myopia in children and adolescents, and previously the only way to correct astigmatism. However, a rigid lens causes an irritant reaction in the sensitive cornea of ​​​​the eye and requires a long period of getting used to, which not everyone can overcome.

Soft lenses are not felt by the eyes and do not require an adaptation period, although their life is much shorter than hard lenses.

So, wanting to avoid any discomfort and discomfort, I opted for soft contact lenses. How not to get lost in all the variety of soft lenses presented today?

Choose for yourself:

Conventional/extended wear lenses:

- last up to 6 months

- require cleaning with special means and enzyme preparations in addition to the solution,

- contraindicated in severe forms of chronic diseases.

Planned replacement lenses:

- optimal in price and breathability of the lens,

- require, like traditional lenses, daily replacement of the solution.

Daily/single use lenses:

- the most "breathable", and therefore ideal for any, even the most sensitive eyes,

- the most expensive types of lenses today,

Grigorieva Alexandra

Statistics say that more than 50% of the inhabitants of the Earth today suffer from a decrease in the sharpness of vision. Previously, this flaw could only be corrected with the help of glasses. In the 21st century, it is increasingly possible to meet people who wear contact lenses.

Therefore, for the women's site "Beautiful and Successful" the question of what is better, lenses or glasses, is one of the most relevant. And in order to answer it to our readers, the site in this article will talk about all the advantages and disadvantages of modern methods of vision correction.

Pros of points

The oldest, and in a sense, even outdated means of vision correction are glasses.

They were originally used by the ancient peoples of the North to protect their eyes from the blinding sun and cold wind. Of course, these devices were quite primitive.

Spectacles with glasses were, according to historians, invented in Italy in the 13th century. Of course, then no one thought that it was better to correct vision, lenses or glasses, since there was no such choice.

Since then, glasses have changed and improved a lot.

The quality of modern glasses has also improved compared to what it was a couple of decades ago. Thanks to the use of high technology, even very poor vision can be corrected with thin optical glasses.

In addition, there is a huge selection of beautiful and stylish frames in optics stores, thanks to which the glasses have turned into a rather attractive and fashionable accessory. By the way, our site has already told.

Those who are thinking about what is better to buy, lenses or glasses, should keep in mind the following advantages of the latter:

• They are cheaper than contact lenses.
• They are quick and easy to put on and take off.
• Well-chosen glasses can change the face for the better, hiding some of its flaws and emphasizing the dignity.
• Glasses can be used without changing for about two years.
• It is very easy to take care of the glasses, you just need to purchase a cloth for optics and a case.
• When wearing glasses, you can safely do makeup.
• With the help of glasses, you can correct almost any visual acuity impairment.

It would be quite fair to say that it is better not to wear lenses or glasses at all and to have excellent vision. But in the case when there is no other way out, you still have to make a choice. At the same time, it is very important to take into account some disadvantages of glasses.

What are the disadvantages of points

Those who have been wearing glasses for more than one year will be able to list all their shortcomings without hesitation.

• Glasses limit the radius of vision, which eventually leads to atrophy of the eye muscles. According to ophthalmologists themselves, wearing glasses for a long time adversely affects the state of vision.
• Wearing glasses is not allowed to play sports, dance, swim. So in such situations it is better to put on lenses or take off glasses completely, completely trusting other senses.
• Glasses can create psychological discomfort. Especially often because of this, people who are forced to wear glasses from childhood suffer.
• Glasses fog up in winter.
• When wearing corrective glasses, you can not wear sunglasses, and in summer this is especially important.

Anyone who is tired of the inconvenience of glasses, it will be useful to know what the advantage of lenses is.

Pros of lenses

Speaking about what is better and more convenient, lenses or glasses, one cannot help but turn to the history of the appearance of lenses.

Initially they were made of glass, and when worn such hard lenses caused some discomfort.

In 1960, soft contact lenses were invented, which were much more comfortable than the hard glass version. It was the emergence of a new soft polymer material that made contact lenses very popular.

But even such lenses needed improvement, since they did not pass oxygen well and caused excessive dryness of the eyes.

The most recent discovery in the field of contact vision correction was the invention of silicone hydrogel materials. Lenses made from this material have characteristics that make them especially attractive to customers.

• They practically do not prevent the penetration of oxygen to the cornea of ​​​​the eye, so they do not cause discomfort.
• They can be worn up to 12 hours in a row without taking them off.
• They can play sports, swim, dance, move actively.
• The question of what is better, contact lenses or glasses, is resolved positively in the direction of the former from the point of view that hydrogel lenses do not break when dropped.
• They do not limit the radius of vision, they are able to correct it by 100%, while glasses are always selected one diopter less than necessary.
• Lenses make you feel more confident and attractive, and are especially suitable for people who have problems with wearing glasses.

Lens Disadvantages

The advent of silicone hydrogel contact lenses has made them a great alternative to regular glasses. But still, the question of what is better to wear, lenses or glasses, has not been decided to the end.

And the reason for this is a number of disadvantages that lenses still have, even the most modern breathing ones.

• Contact vision correction is not a cheap pleasure. The lenses themselves cost quite decently, besides, you need to constantly buy a special disinfectant solution for them. It is recommended to change lenses at least once every six months, and even better - do it every three months.
• Putting on and taking off lenses is a rather delicate procedure that requires a certain amount of dexterity and care.
• Even the most modern lenses take some getting used to, so you can’t switch to them immediately after wearing glasses.
• When it comes to the question of what is better for the eyes, lenses or glasses, you need to keep in mind: lenses can injure the cornea, which in turn can lead to the development of an inflammatory process in the eye.
• A lens that has fallen out of the eye can be very difficult to find.
• The lenses are not suitable for people with very sensitive eyes.
• With some visual defects, lenses cannot be worn.

Which is better: contact lenses or glasses?

If we analyze all the above facts, then we can say that it is definitely impossible to answer the question about the advantage of lenses over glasses or vice versa: each specific case will have its own indications.

But, as practical experience shows, most people who constantly wear lenses wear glasses from time to time.

It is very convenient to alternate different methods of vision correction.

For example, if there is no need to leave the house and you do not want to fiddle in front of a mirror with lenses, you can use glasses. In addition, if suddenly the eyes become inflamed, then it will be simply impossible to put on the lenses.

From here, the conclusion suggests itself: in the question of which is better, lenses or glasses, you need to compromise between the two options. I want to look relaxed, young, energetic - so you should wear lenses. There was a desire to change the sporty image to a business and stylish one - it's time to buy glasses.

Why choose one thing when you can have both and constantly change yourself, surprising others with your unpredictability?

That is why our site advises all readers to try on a variety of looks, deciding for themselves what is best for them, lenses or glasses, in a variety of life situations: in the company of friends, at work, on vacation, at a party, on a date, in an interview, etc. d.

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People who are nearsighted or farsighted have to correct their vision. One of the most popular methods that allow you to correct vision are glasses with diopters. But recently, an alternative to using contact lenses has emerged. Many people constantly wonder lenses or glasses which is better?

What is better lenses or glasses?

In this article, we tried to deal with this issue in more detail. Experts considered all the advantages and disadvantages of both methods.

Pros and cons of glasses with diopters

Before you decide to choose glasses, be sure to remember that you should consult an ophthalmologist. Your doctor will be able to test your vision and write a prescription for eyeglasses. The main advantages of wearing glasses include:

1. Glasses can be a really eye-catching accessory if you choose the right frames.
2. This vision correction element will not come into contact with the eyes. That is why it will not cause a variety of allergic manifestations.
3. Glasses can really protect your eyes from getting a variety of specks.
4. This element of vision correction does not require special care.

We have studied the main advantages of this method of correction and therefore now it's time to study their disadvantages:

1. While wearing, vision may be distorted.
2. There will be a foreign object on your face.
3. If you choose the wrong glasses, then in this case you may experience unpleasant side effects.
4. At night, glasses can reflect light.
5. You will not be able to wear sunglasses while wearing glasses.
6. The cost of a quality frame can be quite high.

Pros and cons of contact lenses

First you need to understand that only a doctor can choose high-quality lenses. Lenses can have a variety of parameters and therefore consultants without a doctor's opinion will not be able to help you. Today, contact lenses are the most modern method of vision correction. The main advantages of contact lenses include:

1. Peripheral vision will not deteriorate.
2. Thanks to this type of correction, you can now engage in active sports.
3. Lenses can change the color of your eyes.
4. Lenses are not afraid of a variety of temperature changes.

While using lenses, you may also encounter disadvantages, which include:

1. With improper care, there may be a risk of inflammatory processes.
2. Bathing or showering with lenses is not recommended.
3. This method of correction cannot be used by children under 12 years of age.
4. Your eyes may not be getting enough oxygen.
5. During use, the inner layer of the cornea may be damaged.
6. The cost of this product is higher than that of glasses.
7. Careful maintenance is required.

Now it's time to study the table, which will indicate when the lenses are contraindicated or recommended for use.

If you plan to avoid problems while wearing lenses, then one-day models should be used. In this case, you don't need a container or .

What parameters to pay attention to when choosing contact lenses

If you are planning, then remember that in this case your attention should be paid to the following factors:

1. Oxygen permeability and moisture content. If the moisture content of the lens is high, then it can be said that it will be quite comfortable to wear. For comfortable daily wear, the oxygen permeability index should be 30 units. But now you can also find models with an oxygen permeability level of 170 units.
2. wearing mode. This indicator can be found on packages with lenses.
3. Replacement frequency. When choosing this indicator, it is necessary to be guided only by individual preferences. Of course, daily lenses are comfortable, but their cost is quite high.
4. Diameter and radius of curvature. For most people, products with the following parameters can be suitable: a radius of curvature of 8.4 or 8.6 and a diameter of 14 to 14.2 mm.

In the video below, you can see in more detail what glasses or lenses are best for the eyes.

Glasses: glass or plastic

If you want to choose glasses for yourself, then remember that you first need to decide on the material from which the lenses in the glasses will be made. Spectacle lenses made of glass are capable of providing UV protection, minimal image distortion, and are more resistant to scratches. But also this type of lens can have a number of disadvantages. They are heavy and can break easily.

Eraser lenses are more reliable and safe

Spectacle lenses made of plastic will be quite light and safe. But plastic lenses cannot protect your eyes from ultraviolet penetration. That is why during the material it is better to consult a doctor.

Computer work: glasses or lenses

If glasses for working at a computer have been chosen correctly, then in this case the danger to vision will be minimized. It will be enough just to take small breaks. With lenses, things can get a lot more complicated. Dust that will collect while working at the computer may settle on the lenses.

As you can see, if you regularly work at a computer, then it is best to give your preference to glasses.

Which is better lenses or glasses

It will be difficult to give a definite answer to this question. Each correction method has its pros and cons. That is why you should decide for yourself. If there is a desire, then you can alternate wearing and choose the most suitable option for yourself.

Now you know for sure which glasses or contact lenses are better. We hope this information was useful and interesting.