Scleral lenses are a type of contact lens that covers the entire cornea and rests on the whites of the eyes, known as the sclera. They are often used to correct vision in people with conditions such as keratoconus, severe astigmatism, or irregularly shaped corneas.
One common concern among potential scleral lens wearers is whether they can use these lenses if they have dry eyes. This worry often arises because dry eyes can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable. However, the good news is that for most people, the answer is yes!
Scleral lenses are designed to vault over the cornea and create a reservoir of lubricating tears, which can provide significant comfort and hydration. Many individuals with dry eyes find that scleral lenses not only fit well but also help alleviate their symptoms, allowing them to enjoy clear vision without the discomfort often associated with traditional lenses.
Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Dry Eyes
Scleral lenses offer several benefits for individuals with dry eyes. Some of these include:
- Increased Comfort: As mentioned, scleral lenses create a gap between the lens and the cornea, allowing a constant flow of tears to lubricate the eye. This can significantly reduce discomfort and irritation caused by dry eyes.
- Protection from Irritants: The protective barrier created by scleral lenses can also shield the sensitive surface of your eyes from environmental irritants such as dust or pollen.
- Longer Wear Time: Due to their larger size and ability to hold moisture, many people can wear scleral lenses for longer than traditional lenses without experiencing dryness or discomfort.
- Customizable Fit: Scleral lenses are custom-made to fit each individual’s unique eye shape, allowing for a more comfortable and precise fit. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with irregularly shaped corneas, who may have difficulty finding traditional contact lenses that fit correctly.
- Improved Vision: Along with providing relief for dry eyes, scleral lenses also offer excellent vision correction. Due to their larger size and ability to vault over the cornea, they can provide sharper and more stable vision than traditional contact lenses.
Causes of Dry Eyes
Now that we know how scleral lenses can help alleviate dry eyes, let’s take a closer look at some of the common causes of dry eyes. These may include:
- Age: As we get older, our bodies produce fewer tears, which can lead to dryness and irritation in the eyes.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or rheumatoid arthritis can cause dry eyes.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to air conditioning, heating systems, or windy and dusty environments can contribute to drying out the eyes.
- Medications: Some medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants, can reduce tear production and lead to dry eyes.
- Eye Strain: Extended periods of time spent looking at screens or focusing on small objects can cause eye strain and dryness.
- Contact Lens Use: Traditional contact lenses can contribute to dry eyes due to their smaller size and tendency to absorb moisture from the eye.
Tips for Managing Dry Eyes
While scleral lenses are a great solution for managing dry eyes, there are also steps you can take to help alleviate symptoms and improve your overall eye health. Some tips include:
- Blink Frequently: Many people tend to blink less when using digital devices, which can contribute to dry eyes. Make sure to take breaks and consciously blink more often when using screens.
- Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide temporary relief for dryness and irritation.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water throughout the day can help keep your eyes hydrated.
- Take Breaks from Contact Lenses: If you wear traditional contact lenses, try giving your eyes a break by wearing glasses or switching to scleral lenses for a period of time.
- Use a Humidifier: If you live in a dry climate or spend a lot of time in air-conditioned spaces, using a humidifier can add moisture to the air and help prevent dry eyes.
- Consult with an Eye Doctor: If you are experiencing chronic dry eyes, it is important to consult with an eye doctor. They can determine the underlying cause and provide personalized treatment options.
Overall, managing dry eyes requires an individualized approach and finding what works best for you. Don’t hesitate to explore different solutions and consult a professional for guidance.
Find Relief from Dry Eyes at 2020 Eyecare Ohio
Scleral lenses are not only great for vision correction but also offer many benefits for individuals struggling with dry eyes. By providing a protective layer of fluid over the eye, these lenses can improve comfort and alleviate symptoms associated with dryness.
With proper care and management techniques, individuals with dry eyes can enjoy clear vision and improved overall eye health. If you are interested in trying scleral lenses for yourself, consult with your eye doctor to determine if they are a suitable option for you.
At 2020 Eyecare Ohio, our team of experienced eye doctors can provide comprehensive dry eye evaluations and customized treatment plans, including scleral lenses. Schedule an appointment today to find relief from dry eyes and improve your quality of life.
