It’s been a long time, almost 40 years, since I began wearing contact lenses. At first, given the current state of the technology it was a bit hard with the more rigid, first gas permeable lenses, but soon thereafter disposable contact lenses gained in popularity for their convenience and hygiene, including daily disposable options introduced in the late 1980s.
That was followed by silicone hydrogel materials that further increased oxygen permeability and comfort, leading to their widespread use these days. While adapting to their use was a bit hard for me at first, I had no problem wearing them after a few weeks and during all these years. It may be that only an early death or cataract surgery will force me to stop wearing them.
The history of contact lenses is pretty amazing. It evolved from theoretical concepts in the Renaissance, when Leonardo da Vinci proposed a device that could alter the eye's refractive power by submerging the eye in water, to the first glass lenses in the late 1800s.
Wearing contact lenses offers numerous benefits for vision correction and lifestyle compared to traditional eyeglasses. For one thing they offer a wider field of vision, total freedom for physical activities including biking and skiing, and various cosmetic advantages.
In spite of Utah's extremely dry weather, they’ve worked well for me as contact lenses are good for most people, except for individuals with severe allergies, repeated eye infections, certain corneal conditions or eye diseases. Sometimes it’s a history of LASIK complications, or folks who can’t maintain proper lens hygiene.
Environmental factors, such as a dusty work environment, and a very high prescription can also make contacts unsuitable. Finally men may experience more initial difficulties in adapting to contacts as women show more dexterity in handling them, as they’re used to applying make-up around their eyes...
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