Children’s Eye Safety with Contact Lenses: What Parents Need to Know
When it comes to vision correction for children, contact lenses can be a fantastic option.
With a knowledgeable optometrist, they offer freedom from glasses during sports, better peripheral vision, and an increased sense of self-confidence. However, with these benefits comes the need for proper education and care to ensure your child’s eyes stay safe and healthy. Here’s what every parent needs to know about children’s eye safety with contact lenses.
Are Contact Lenses Safe for Kids?
The safety of contact lenses largely depends on the child’s ability to handle them responsibly. While there is no universal age when contact lenses become suitable, many eye care professionals recommend them for children aged 8 and older who demonstrate good hygiene habits and maturity.
In very rare cases, infants can also be fitted with contact lenses. This is only done for medical conditions such as aphakia or amblyopia. Children under the age of 2 are typically fitted with contact lenses only when there is a medical reason to do so like MiSight lenses and Myopia or extreme refractive errors, under the supervision of an Optometrist.
Benefits of Contact Lenses for Children
- Improved Vision for Active Lifestyles: Contact lenses provide clear vision without the risk of glasses falling or breaking during sports and other activities.
- Enhanced Peripheral Vision: Unlike glasses, contact lenses move with the eyes, providing a full field of vision.
- Boosted Confidence: Many children feel more confident wearing contact lenses instead of glasses, especially during social activities or performances.
Risks and How to Mitigate Them
Improper use of contact lenses can lead to eye infections, irritation, and in severe cases, damage to the cornea. To reduce these risks:
- Prioritize Hygiene: Ensure your child washes their hands thoroughly before handling their lenses.
- Follow Care Instructions: Use only recommended cleaning solutions and avoid using water to rinse lenses.
- Replace Lenses as Directed: Adhere to the replacement schedule prescribed by your child’s eye doctor, whether they are daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses.
- Limit Wear Time: Encourage your child to remove their lenses before bedtime and during naps to prevent oxygen deprivation to the eyes.
Warning Signs to Watch For
As a parent, it’s essential to monitor your child’s eyes for any signs of irritation or infection, such as:
- Redness or swelling
- Excessive tearing or discharge
- Complaints of discomfort or blurred vision
If these symptoms occur, have your child stop wearing their contact lenses immediately and consult an eye care professional.
Teaching Responsibility
The biggest indicator of success with contact lenses in pre-teens is maturity and parental support. Before allowing your child to wear contact lenses, it’s important to educate them about proper care. Schedule a fitting appointment with an eye doctor, where your child can learn how to insert, remove, and clean their lenses under professional guidance. Reinforce the importance of following these steps every day.
While eye care professionals can provide the lenses and training, the ultimate responsibility falls on the child to consistently and correctly put the lenses in and take them out each day.
Alternatives to Contact Lenses
Here in Tacoma, WA – if your child isn’t ready for the responsibility of contact lenses, there are other options to consider, such as:
- Glasses designed for active kids with durable frames and impact-resistant lenses.
- Atropine & Myopia management programs to slow the progression of nearsightedness.
Final Thoughts
Contact lenses can be a safe and effective vision correction option for children, provided they are used responsibly. By prioritizing hygiene, adhering to care instructions, and educating your child about proper lens use, you can help them enjoy the benefits of contact lenses while protecting their eye health.
For expert advice and personalized recommendations, schedule an appointment with an eye care specialist at Tacoma Eye at Westgate. Together, we can ensure your child’s vision stays clear and healthy for years to come. Call 253-220-2563 today!