Alleviating Dry Eyes with Scleral Contact Lenses

Dry eyes can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, causing discomfort, irritation, and even vision problems. If you're struggling with dry eye symptoms, you'll be glad to know that there's a specialized type of contact lens that can provide relief - scleral lenses.

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Common symptoms include:

• A burning sensation

• Redness

• Grittiness

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred vision

The causes of dry eyes can vary, ranging from environmental factors and screen time to underlying health conditions like autoimmune diseases. Traditional treatments like artificial tears, warm compresses, and medications can provide relief, but for many, these methods are not sufficient.

Exploring Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral contact lenses are larger than conventional lenses, designed to vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye. This unique design creates a fluid reservoir between the lens and the cornea, keeping the eye hydrated throughout the day. The constant presence of moisture not only helps alleviate the discomfort associated with dry eyes but also protects the cornea from external irritants.

How Scleral Lenses Alleviate Dry Eyes

• Moisture Retention: The most significant benefit of scleral lenses for dry eye sufferers is their ability to retain moisture. The space between the lens and the cornea is filled with a saline solution, which acts as a cushion of moisture, providing constant hydration to the eyes.

• Protection: Scleral lenses create a barrier that protects the cornea from environmental factors like wind, dust, and allergens. This can be particularly beneficial for those whose dry eyes are exacerbated by external irritants.

• Stabilizing the Tear Film: Scleral lenses help to stabilize the tear film on the eye's surface, reducing evaporation and maintaining a consistent layer of moisture. This leads to prolonged comfort even in challenging environments such as air-conditioned rooms or during extended screen use.

• Custom Fit for Comfort: Unlike traditional contacts, scleral lenses are custom-made to fit the individual’s eye shape. This personalized fit reduces the risk of irritation and enhances comfort, making them a suitable option for those who may have struggled with other contact lenses.

The Fitting Process for Scleral Lenses

Obtaining scleral lenses requires a specialized fitting process, as each lens is custom-designed to fit your unique eye shape and size. Here's what you can expect:

• Comprehensive eye exam: Your eye doctor will perform a thorough examination of your eyes, including measurements of your corneal curvature, eye size, and tear production.

• Lens selection: Based on the exam results, your provider will select the appropriate scleral lens design and size to fit your eyes.

• Lens fitting: The lenses will be placed on your eyes, and your provider will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.

• Follow-up appointments: You'll need to attend several follow-up appointments to monitor the fit and performance of your scleral lenses, and to make any necessary adjustments.

The fitting process may take several visits, but it's essential to ensure that your scleral lenses provide the optimal level of comfort and vision correction.

Get Started with InSight EyeCare Today

Scleral lenses are becoming an increasingly popular and effective solution for managing dry eye. These specialized lenses offer a unique and customized approach to addressing the root causes of dry eye, providing long-lasting relief and improved quality of life for those struggling with this condition.

If you're ready to take the next step in managing your dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with InSight EyeCare. We will work with you to determine if scleral lenses are the right solution for your needs, and guide you through the fitting process to ensure you achieve the best possible results. Visit our office in Houston, Texas, or call (713) 462-2010 to book an appointment today.