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How Scleral Contact Lenses Can Help with Dry Eye Syndrome

Edmonton Eye Doctors

30-08-2024

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort and vision problems. It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. While there are various treatments available, scleral contact lenses have emerged as a promising solution for individuals suffering from dry eye symptoms.

Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome

Causes and Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry Eye Syndrome can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, environmental conditions, prolonged screen time, certain medications, and underlying health conditions such as autoimmune diseases. Common symptoms of dry eye include a stinging or burning sensation, redness, a feeling of grittiness, and excessive tearing as a response to dryness.

How Dry Eye Syndrome Affects Vision

Dry eye syndrome can significantly impact a person’s vision, causing fluctuations in clarity and difficulty focusing, especially during activities like reading or using a computer. The constant discomfort can also make it hard to wear standard contact lenses, affecting both visual acuity and quality of life.

Why Scleral Lenses Are Effective for Dry Eye

Scleral contact lenses have become a highly effective treatment option for individuals with Dry Eye Syndrome due to their unique design and the way they interact with the eye. Unlike traditional contact lenses, which rest on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over the entire corneal surface and sit on the sclera, the white part of the eye. This distinctive fit allows scleral lenses to provide both vision correction and significant relief from the discomfort associated with dry eyes. Here’s how scleral lenses help manage dry eye symptoms.

The Role of the Tear Reservoir

One of the key features of scleral lenses that makes them effective for dry eye is the creation of a tear reservoir. The space between the back surface of the lens and the cornea is filled with a saline solution, which acts as a constant reservoir of moisture. This reservoir provides continuous lubrication to the eye, preventing dryness and irritation. This is particularly beneficial for individuals whose dry eye symptoms are exacerbated by environmental factors or extended screen use, as the tear reservoir maintains a moist and comfortable environment on the eye’s surface.

Creating a Moisture-Retaining Environment

Scleral lenses also create a moisture-retaining environment that protects the eye from exposure to external irritants and reduces tear evaporation. The large diameter of the lenses shields the cornea and keeps moisture trapped underneath, which helps to preserve the natural tear film. This protective barrier can be especially useful in dry or windy conditions and for patients who suffer from evaporative dry eye, where tears evaporate too quickly. By maintaining a stable and hydrated ocular surface, scleral lenses can significantly reduce the symptoms of dry eye and improve overall comfort. By understanding these mechanisms, it’s clear why scleral lenses are increasingly recommended for individuals with dry eye syndrome, offering a combination of improved comfort, consistent hydration, and effective vision correction.

Looking For Scleral Contact Lenses in Edmonton?

Looking to elevate your vision with scleral contact lenses? Schedule a consult and custom fitting with one of our experienced optometrists in Edmonton.

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