There are several types of contact lenses. The most common ones that are available in the market are the soft and hard (rigid gas permeable) ones. Gas-permeable lenses allow more oxygen to reach the surface (cornea) of the eye.
Soft contact lenses come in two basic forms–Daily wear and Extended wear. Both lenses are made from thin, flexible, material and water. Daily-wear lenses must be removed, cleaned and stored every day. Extended-wear lenses on the other hand are designed for overnight wear. However, there may be an increased risk of infection associated with extended-wear lenses for some people. They should be worn for the period of time prescribed by your eye doctor.
Hard contact lenses offer clearer vision with certain eye conditions, and specific types may last longer. Many types of hard contact lenses are available in bifocals. However, it may take longer to adapt to wearing hard contact lenses than soft contact lenses. Hard contact lenses have a risk as they may slid out of place more easily when you engage in vigorous physical activity or sports.
Daily-wear soft lenses are the most comfortable, and your eyes will adjust to wearing them in les time than with hard contact lenses. They may be worn during vigorous physical activities as there is less likelihood that the lenses will slip out of place. They are available in a variety of tinted colors.
However, some people may not have clear vision wearing soft contact lenses due to certain eye conditions such as severe astigmatism. Soft contact lenses need special cleaning and disinfection as they tend to tear easily. They may not last as long as hard contact lenses. Disposable soft contact lenses are replaced every day to every few months, depending on the type of lens.
Extended-wear soft lenses offer the same advantages as daily-wear lenses. These lenses may be worn for an extended period, up to a week. However, due to the risk of infection associated with extended use, daily removal and cleaning is recommended by the doctor.
