At What Age Can My Child Wear Contact Lenses?

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As eye doctors in Coldwater, MS, one of the most common questions we’re asked is, “At what age can my child wear contact lenses?” There’s no definitive answer to this question since each situation is different. The answer depends on various factors, including the child’s age and level of maturity. However, other things come into play, too.

Assessing your Child’s Readiness to Wear Contact Lenses

Parents are the first ones to be able to assess whether their child is ready to wear contact lenses. Try to be as objective as possible when considering the following:

  • Is your child able to follow instructions?
  • Is your child generally willing to follow instructions without supervision?
  • Does your child maintain good hygiene in other areas, such as brushing teeth, washing hands, cleaning after themselves in the toilet, etc.?
  • Does your child take care of their possessions, such as putting toys away, hanging up clothes or putting them in the laundry basket, making their bed, etc.?
  • Can your child keep track of their things, or do you find that they often lose or misplace things?

As you make the assessment at home with this checklist, bear in mind that these have no weight on whether your child is a “good” child or responsible. If your child doesn’t have the full skillset now, they may simply need more time to develop. Every child develops and matures at their own pace.

The Generally Acceptable Age

Most eye care professionals recommend waiting until a child is about 11 or 12 before fitting them with contact lenses. By this age, children are typically more responsible and better able to handle the daily maintenance required for contact lenses. However, this age recommendation is not set in stone, and some children may be ready to wear contact lenses earlier or later than others.

If you’re interested in pediatric contact lenses in Coldwater, MS, please book an appointment with us today. We can help assess whether your child is ready for this important step. And, if it turns out that contacts aren’t in the picture yet, we can help your child feel good about wearing glasses for a few more years!

Teaching Kids to Care For Contact Lenses

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Whereas eyeglasses can be easily taken off, lost, or sat on, contact lenses are more likely to be used and accepted by your school-aged child. Contact lenses for kids in Coldwater, MS, offer a great alternative to eyeglasses. But contacts require special skills to ensure they are well cared for. Here are some tips for teaching your child to care for contact lenses.

Explain the Basics

Be sure to sit down with your child to ensure they understand the basics of contact lenses. Kids are naturally curious, so if you explain what they look like and how they work, your child will have that curiosity satisfied. It also helps them feel more confident about wearing the lenses, knowing that contacts have been used for a long time to correct vision.

Explain the Need

Secondly, explain how the contact lenses will directly help your child to see better, read better, and perform better. Talk about how good vision is essential for playing sports, enjoying playground equipment safely, gaining confidence in social situations, and doing well in school and in other ways. Knowing why they’re wearing contact lenses will motivate your child to care for them properly.

Explain the Function of Each Supply

Layout the contact lens supplies on the bathroom counter and explain what each one is for: the storage case, the cleaning solution, the saline solution, etc. Talk about what each product does.

Demonstrate the Process

Children are masters at mimicking what they see. First, demonstrate the whole process, from removing the contact lens from its container to cleaning, rubbing, and rinsing. Tell your child, “now it’s your turn,” and let your child practice while you oversee. Gently correct any “mistakes.” Practice again until you’re confident that your child has the process memorized.

Establish a Routine

Children respond well to routines, which make them feel safe. Consistency is key in contact lens care. Help your child develop a daily routine for inserting, removing, and cleaning their lenses.

Your eye doctor in Coldwater, MS, can reinforce your teachings at home, giving your child the tools and information to care for their contact lenses. Contact us today to book an appointment!

3 Ways to Tell If Your Child Can Wear Contact Lenses

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When your child wants contact lenses, your first instinct might be to tell them to stick with their glasses. These accessories may be prone to falling off during sports, but at least they both protect your child’s eyes and don’t require much more upkeep than a simple wipe-down every once in a while. However, there are kids as young as eight who can be trusted with the responsibility of contacts. Here are a few ways to tell whether your child is ready.

1. They Seem Committed

They haven’t just asked once or twice after seeing an ad for colored contacts or talking to a friend who just got contact lenses in Coldwater, MS. If your child has mapped out all the ways that they will care for these visual aids, including a schedule based on best-care practices, you can consider taking the next step. Just remember that contact lenses is a constant responsibility, and even if they become ill or they’re extremely tired, they still need to take care of their eyes.

2. They’ve Demonstrated Responsibility in Other Areas

Even the most motivated kids at the beginning can start to slack off after a while. If your child is lackadaisical about even the things they profess to love, like playing the guitar, then they should probably hold off on contacts. Of course, if they’re doing their homework on time, every time, right before doing all the dishes, you can probably cut them some slack.

3. They’ve Been to a Reputable Eye Doctor in Coldwater, MS

The right optometrist in Coldwater can give you and your child the advice they need to make more informed decisions about what to do next. Even with all of the products on the market, including daily contact lenses that are designed to cut down on upkeep, there are still more responsibilities that come with contacts than with glasses.

If you want to know more about how to handle your child’s requests, particularly if they haven’t let up on asking, the staff at Coldwater Vision Center may be able to help. We’re here not only to give your child a thorough exam but to provide both of you with advice that will ensure long-term health for their eyes.

Fit and Function: The Difference Between Pediatric and Adult Contact Lenses

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Kids who are near-sighted usually find out around the age of 8, and it’s easy to see why children that young might prefer contact lenses instead of glasses. For anyone who loves their sports and recreational activities, it can be uncomfortable or worrisome to be constantly dealing with bouncing frames. If you’re curious about how pediatric contact lenses in Coldwater, MS work, we’ll look at the facts.

What You Should Know

For the most part, pediatric and adult contact lenses are similar. As with adult exams, you can expect the contact lenses — whether they’re gas permeable or soft — will be fitted specifically for their eyes. If your child is interested in contact lenses, there should be some degree of discussion between you and the optometrist before purchasing anything.

If you’re not confident in your child’s ability to care for contact lenses, you can consider a trial period to assess their commitment to keeping their eyes and lenses safe from harm. As a general rule, optometrists are trending toward recommending contact lenses for younger children, though again, it will depend on the individual child. This is due to not only increased demand, but also a number of psychological benefits for kids (e.g., kids with contacts may feel more confident in their appearance).

Pediatric Contact Lenses in Coldwater, MS

At Coldwater Vision Center, we work with each child to determine the best course of treatment. We also offer pediatric contact lenses specifically for children with aphakia. This condition, which is sometimes fixed with surgical intervention, affects the lens of the child’s eye. They may be far-sighted or have trouble seeing and distinguishing colors. The right contact lenses can make a major difference in cases where surgery isn’t an option.

There’s no doubt that contact lenses are a big responsibility. Failing to take care of them can result in anything from mild discomfort to serious infection. However, there are concrete benefits for many kids who are committed to wearing contact lenses. If you have questions about your child and the best course of treatment, the staff at Coldwayer Vision Center is here to help. If you’re looking for an eye doctor in Coldwater, contact us today.

Top 3 Benefits of Contact Lenses

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Contact lenses are a popular alternative to traditional eyeglasses, providing people with a clear and unrestricted worldview. Contact lenses are a great option to consider whether you’re looking to improve your vision or want a more comfortable and convenient solution. In this post, we will look at some of the benefits of contact lenses and why they might be right for you.

The proficient team at Coldwater Vision Center of Coldwater, MS, is proud to serve the local community with premium vision care services and products, including much-needed traditional and customized lenses.

What are Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are small, clear, and flexible disks placed directly on the eye to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Contact lenses are available in different styles, materials, and wear schedules, so you can find a solution that works best for your lifestyle and visual needs.

What are Some Benefits of Contact Lenses?

There are many benefits of contact lenses over glasses, including the following list.

Wider Field of View

One of the benefits of contact lenses is that they provide a wider field of view compared to traditional eyeglasses. This means that you can see more of the world around you without obstructions, which can be particularly useful when playing sports or engaging in other physical activities.

Less Distortion and Obstruction

Another benefit of contact lenses is that they don’t cause distortion or obstruction in the same way that eyeglasses can. This is because contact lenses are positioned directly on the eye rather than in front of it, eliminating any distortion caused by the lenses. Additionally, no frame or bridge obstructs your vision, giving you a more transparent and unobstructed view of the world.

Reduces Glare

Contact lenses can also help reduce glare, making them an excellent option for people who experience discomfort driving or engaging in outdoor activities. Glare reduction can improve visual clarity, reduce eye strain, and make it easier to see in bright light conditions.

Your Local Quality Vision Center

If you’re considering contact lenses, finding a local vision center that can provide you with the expertise and care you need is paramount. The expert team at Coldwater Vision Center of Coldwater, MS, will be able to efficiently diagnose and treat all symptoms, so you can rest assured that you are receiving the personalized attention and care you deserve.

Contact Lenses for Children with Aphakia

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Would you like to know more about aphakia in children? Here we are going to go over some background, details, and the most frequently asked questions about children with aphakia. This will help you when you discuss the most suitable aphakia treatment for children in Coldwater, MS with your optometrist.

What Is Aphakia?

Aphakia is when you don’t have a lens inside your eye. The lens of your eye is the clear oval-shaped structure that is located behind your iris, which is the colored part of the eye and your pupil. This is what focuses light rays on the retina. So, when your eye doesn’t have a lens, your eye will be out of focus and your vision will be blurry.

What Causes Aphakia?

There are three main causes of aphakia.

  1. Cataract Surgery – Typically, when a child has cataract surgery, the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens or intraocular lens. When a cataract is removed in a child’s eye, they are sometimes left without an IOL after the cloudy lens has been surgically removed.
  2. 2. Injury – An injury or trauma sometimes causes Aphakia to the eye’s lens.
  3. Congenital Defect – Sometimes babies are born without lenses in their eyes or are born with detached or abnormal lenses. Fortunately, this is rare, but it does happen. On that same note, sometimes people are genetically predisposed to aphakia.

What Are the Signs of Aphakia?

It’s always best to talk to your optometrist in Coldwater, MS about any eye issues you might be experiencing. But here are the most common signs that you might have aphakia.

  • Trouble focusing
  • Blurry vision
  • Changes in your colored vision
  • Colors that appear faded
  • Your focus changes as your distance from an object changes
  • Nearsightedness or farsightedness

How Do You Treat Aphakia in Children?

There are several treatment options for children with aphakia.

Surgery – With aphakia surgery, an IOL replaces your damaged, missing, or detached lens. However, for newborns, IOL is implanted during a subsequent surgery to help avoid complications.

Contact Lenses – People with aphakia are frequently treated with special contact lenses that help provide clear vision. The contact lenses are worn for a month or more without having to be changed.

Glasses – Aphakia can also be treated with eyeglasses; however, this approach is best suited to those that have aphakia in both eyes.

If you need an optometrist in Coldwater, MS, please Contact Coldwater Vision Center today to schedule an appointment for your child with aphakia.

 

Is Your Teen Ready for Contacts? 4 Signs

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Many kids and teens who wear glasses eventually decide that they want to wear contact lenses. If you’re considering contact lenses for your teenage child, it’s important to first evaluate whether your teen is a good candidate for contact lenses.

Contact lenses require your teen to take on a lot more responsibility than glasses – and they’re not a good fit for everyone. Here’s what you need to consider before getting your teen contacts in Coldwater MS.

1. Your Teen Takes Care Of Their Glasses

Does your teen routinely lose their glasses, or forget to put their glasses on? Then they may not be a good fit for contact lenses. Contacts are smaller than glasses and come in a case that can be easily lost.

In addition, contacts will require regular care from your teen. If your teen is already having a hard time with their glasses, then they may not be able to handle the responsibility of caring for their contacts.

2. Your Teen Maintains Routines Well

Some contacts need to be removed nightly, while others are left in for longer periods of time. Either way, all contacts need to be periodically removed and maintained. If your teen’s contacts aren’t taken out when needed and cleaned when needed, then your teen could end up with an eye infection. Your teen needs to be up to the responsibility!

3. Your Teen Demonstrates Responsibility In Everyday Life

Does your teen get themselves up on time for school? Can they be trusted to perform basic chores around the house without reminders? Do they get good grades and make an effort to act responsibly most of the time?

If the answer to these questions were yes, then your teen is probably a good candidate for contact lenses. If the answer to these questions was no, then your teen might be better off with glasses.

4. Your Teen’s Eye Doctor Thinks Contacts Are Appropriate For Your Teen

Before you can get contacts for your teen, their eye doctor in Coldwater MS will need to evaluate their eyes. Call Coldwater Vision Center to make an appointment today.

When to Replace Contact Lenses?

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There are many different kinds of contact lenses on the market these days. You can choose from hard contact lenses, soft lenses, colored lenses, extended wear lenses, one-day lenses and more. The decision about which brand of contact lens to wear and what kind is between you and your eye doctor in Coldwater. But the decision about when to replace contact lenses is one that will be informed by the kind of lenses you wear as well as their condition.

Replace Lenses if They are Damaged

One time when you absolutely must replace your contact lenses is if they become damaged. Each time you go to put your contact lenses in, give the lens a close visual inspection. Look for any protein deposits on the surface of the lens. If you’ve been cleaning them properly and using the correct cleaning solution, you shouldn’t have any protein deposits. Still, if you see any small white specs on the lens that don’t rinse off, this is likely a protein deposit. Another thing to look for is any kind of divot or piece of the contact that’s missing. As contact lenses begin to disintegrate, they often will tear or have a small piece out of the edge of the lens. If you detect either of these two issues, discard the contact lens and replace it with a new one. Never try to “get by” wearing a damaged lens, as this could cause damage to your eye.

Replace Lenses if Your Prescription is a Year Old or More

Another time when you should certainly replace your contact lenses is if your prescription is a year old or more. Even if you feel that you can see perfectly fine with your old contact lens prescription, you need to schedule a visit with your eye doctor in Coldwater. The reason is that changes in your vision may be nearly undetectable to you, but your eye doctor will be able to tell. It’s important that you always wear contact lenses with a recent prescription in order to protect your vision. Get your new prescription and then get fitted with new contact lenses. Make sure you toss your old lenses; don’t try keeping them as a backup pair!

The best way to ensure your eye health at home is to replace contact lenses when any of the issues mentioned above come up. Talk to your eye doctor in Coldwater today for more details.

 

Can Children Wear Contact Lenses?

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At Coldwater Vision Center in Coldwater, MS, we treat patients of all ages, including children. We offer eye exams for children and we carry a wide variety of eyeglasses that your child will be proud to wear. However, one of the questions that we get asked is if children can wear contact lenses.

Some Contact Lenses Are Therapeutic

There has been an exciting new development in contact lenses. There are now lenses that are actually recommended for some children in order to prevent myopia or nearsightedness. These are Ortho-K lenses. Since myopia is partially caused by misshapen eyes, Ortho-K contact lenses can help to prevent this “mis-growth” from occurring. Talk to your vision care professional to see if this is an option for your child.

The Child Must be Mature Enough

Contact lenses require a certain amount of maturity to wear and take care of them. If your child doesn’t properly care for their lenses, eye infection and damage can occur. For instance, most lenses must be cleaned and disinfected daily. As a parent, you have to ask yourself if your child is likely to do this. If you still need to nag your child about washing their face and brushing their teeth nightly, it’s unlikely they’ll have what it takes to ensure their contact lenses are properly disinfected before putting them in each day.

Furthermore, is your child likely to lose their lenses? Contacts have to be placed in their case when not worn, not inside a clump of tissue inside a backpack. Of course, you can always opt for daily wear lenses, which can be thrown away after each use. This is a decision that needs to be discussed with you, your child and your Coldwater Vision Center eyecare professional.

The short answer is that yes, children can and do wear contact lenses. However, depending on the circumstances, it may be easier to have your younger child wear eyeglasses until they exhibit a level of maturity that shows they’re ready for contact lenses.

For more information about corrective eyewear for your children, please contact Coldwater Vision Center in Coldwater, MS today. We’re here to help with all of your family’s vision needs.

 

What Are The Various Types of Contact Lenses?

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Your eye doctor in Coldwater may recommend contact lenses for nearsightedness and farsightedness. Wearing contact lenses is usually means more convenience and better vision. But did you know that when it comes to contact lenses, there is a wide range of choices? Here are the various types of contact lenses to be aware of so that you and your eye doctor can choose the best option for your particular needs:

Soft Contact Lenses

Statistics have shown that millions of people wear contact lenses in the country. Out of those, a significant number wear soft contact lenses. Some of the reasons for their popularity include comfort, flexibility, and comfort. Because soft contact lenses are flexible, they offer more comfort and can usually be worn for longer hours. Almost anyone who can wear contact lenses, in general, can wear soft contact lenses.

Gas Permeable Contact Lenses

Gas permeable lenses are a form of hard lenses. Since it’s important for the eyes to have access to the air, gas permeable lenses allow a certain amount of airflow. This ensures that the eyes remain healthy, even if hard lenses are worn all day long. Many people choose hard lenses that are gas permeable because they are considered more durable than soft lenses. They are also appropriate for certain kinds of prescriptions as recommended by your eye care professional

Extended Wear Contact Lenses

Extended wear contact lenses can be worn for up to 30 days. This has become possible due to the advancement of technology. The main criteria used for these types of lenses are oxygen permeability. When you sleep, the cornea can only get oxygen from the blood vessels in your eyelids. Extended wear lenses are best suited for those with unpredictable lifestyles and for certain kinds of prescriptions.

Disposable Contact Lenses

Disposable contact lenses are for single-use and made to be disposed of daily. This ensures that the wearer always has a fresh pair of contact lenses to wear. This type of contact lens is thinner and more comfortable, but less durable.

All of the various types of contact lenses mentioned above also offer an additional option, which is coloring. With the aid of contact lenses, wearers can alter the color of their eyes, which is a fun and convenient beauty aid. Talk to your eye doctor in Coldwater today about which type of contact lens is right for you!