Managing Dry Eye Syndrome with Scleral Lenses: How They Provide Relief

Dry eye syndrome is a common and often chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leaving your eyes feeling dry, irritated, and uncomfortable. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including redness, burning, stinging, and even blurred vision.
 

The Impact of Dry Eye on Vision and Eye Health

When your eyes are dry, they can become inflamed and more susceptible to infection. This can lead to a range of vision-related problems, including:
 

• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Difficulty with night driving or reading
• Eye fatigue and discomfort

In severe cases, untreated dry eye can even lead to permanent damage to the cornea, the clear front part of your eye. This can further compromise your vision and increase your risk of eye infections and other complications.
 

Exploring Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are a specialized type of contact lens that can provide relief for individuals with dry eye syndrome. Unlike traditional contact lenses, which rest on the cornea, scleral lenses are designed to vault over the entire cornea and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye.
 

This unique design creates a fluid-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, which helps to keep the cornea hydrated and protected. Scleral lenses are typically larger in diameter than traditional contacts, ranging from 14 to 22 millimeters, and are made from specialized materials that are highly oxygen-permeable.
 

How Do Scleral Lenses Provide Relief for Dry Eye Syndrome?

Scleral lenses provide relief for dry eye syndrome by creating a smooth, moisture-rich environment on the eye's surface. Their design creates a fluid-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, which keeps the eye hydrated throughout the day. The lens also acts as a protective barrier, shielding the sensitive cornea from irritants and reducing symptoms like dryness, irritation, and redness. For individuals with severe dry eye syndrome, scleral lenses offer a significant improvement in comfort and visual clarity.
 

The Benefits of Using Scleral Lenses for Dry Eye Management

In addition to the relief they provide for dry eye symptoms, scleral lenses offer several other benefits for individuals with this condition:
 

• Improved Quality of Life: By reducing the discomfort and vision-related problems associated with dry eye, scleral lenses can significantly improve your overall quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.
• Reduced Dependence on Eye Drops: Scleral lenses can often reduce or even eliminate the need for frequent use of eye drops, which can be costly and time-consuming.
• Increased Comfort and Convenience: Scleral lenses are designed to be worn for extended periods, providing all-day comfort and convenience without the need for frequent removal and reinsertion.
• Enhanced Tear Film Quality: The fluid-filled reservoir created by scleral lenses can help to improve the quality and stability of your tear film, which can have long-term benefits for your eye health.
• Compatibility with Other Treatments: Scleral lenses can be used in conjunction with other dry eye treatments, such as prescription eye drops or lid hygiene regimens, to provide a comprehensive and effective management plan.

Are Scleral Lenses Right for Your Dry Eyes?

If you are struggling with the symptoms of dry eye syndrome, scleral lenses may be a game-changing solution. By providing continuous hydration, reducing inflammation, and improving your vision, scleral lenses can help you regain control of your eye health and enjoy a better quality of life.
 

To learn more about how scleral lenses can help manage your dry eye syndrome, schedule a consultation with ALPHA EYEcare ASSOCIATES, PLLC. We can assess your unique needs and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you find the relief you deserve. Visit our office in Houston, Texas, or call (713) 721-9000 to book an appointment today.