Dry eyes, also known as dry eye disease (DED), is a common condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even vision problems. Scleral lenses can be a highly effective solution for individuals with dry eye discomfort, providing relief from symptoms and improving overall eye health and visual acuity.
 

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, certain medications, environmental conditions, and underlying health conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome or blepharitis. The causes of dry eyes can be broadly categorized into two main types:
 

Aqueous-Deficient Dry Eye: This occurs when the lacrimal glands, responsible for producing tears, do not produce enough tears to keep the eyes adequately lubricated.
 

Evaporative Dry Eye: This occurs when the tear film, which covers the surface of the eye, evaporates too quickly, often due to problems with the meibomian glands that produce the oil component of tears.
 

Understanding the underlying cause of your dry eyes is crucial in determining the most effective treatment approach.
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eyes

The symptoms of dry eyes can vary from person to person, but some of the most common include:

• Feelings of dryness, irritation, or burning in the eyes
• Redness or inflammation of the eyes
• Sensitivity to light or wind
• Blurred vision or eye fatigue
• Stringy or thick mucus in or around the eyes
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Frequent eye infections or styes

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to consult with an optometrist to determine the root cause and the best course of treatment.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are a type of specialty contact lens that are designed to cover a larger area of the eye than traditional contact lenses. These lenses rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye, rather than directly on the cornea. This unique design can provide a number of benefits for individuals with dry eye conditions.
 

Scleral lenses are made of a rigid, gas-permeable material that is designed to maintain a layer of tears between the lens and the eye's surface. This tear reservoir helps to keep the cornea hydrated and protected, reducing the symptoms of dry eyes.
 

How Do Scleral Lenses Help with Dry Eye Discomfort?

Scleral lenses can be an effective solution for individuals with dry eye discomfort for several reasons:

• Tear Reservoir: The unique design of scleral lenses creates a small, fluid-filled space between the lens and the eye's surface. This tear reservoir helps to keep the cornea continuously hydrated, reducing the symptoms of dry eyes.
• Corneal Protection: By resting on the sclera rather than the cornea, scleral lenses provide a protective barrier that shields the delicate corneal surface from environmental factors that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms, such as wind, dust, and low humidity.
• Improved Tear Film Stability: Scleral lenses can help to stabilize the tear film, reducing the rate of evaporation and keeping the eyes better lubricated.
• Reduced Inflammation: By providing a barrier between the eye and the environment, scleral lenses can help to reduce inflammation and irritation associated with dry eye conditions.

Advantages of Using Scleral Lenses for Dry Eyes

In addition to their ability to alleviate dry eye discomfort, scleral lenses offer several other advantages for individuals with this condition:

• Improved Vision: Scleral lenses can provide clearer, sharper vision compared to traditional contact lenses or glasses, especially for individuals with irregular corneal shapes or other visual impairments.
• Comfort: The larger size and unique design of scleral lenses can provide a more comfortable wearing experience, particularly for those with sensitive eyes or corneal irregularities.
• Versatility: Scleral lenses can be customized to address a wide range of vision and eye health needs, making them a suitable option for individuals with complex or hard-to-treat dry eye conditions.
• Long-Lasting Wear: Scleral lenses are typically more durable and long-lasting than traditional contact lenses, which can be especially beneficial for individuals with dry eyes who may need to wear their lenses for extended periods.

Is Scleral Lens the Right Option for Your Dry Eyes?

To determine if scleral lenses are the right option for you, it's crucial to consult with an experienced eye doctor who can thoroughly evaluate your condition and discuss the benefits and potential drawbacks of this treatment approach. They will be able to guide you through the fitting process and help you make an informed decision about whether scleral lenses are the best solution for your dry eye needs.
 

If you're struggling with dry eye discomfort and want to explore scleral lens options, schedule a consultation with Green Eye Care. We will thoroughly evaluate your condition and work with you to determine the best course of treatment to alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall eye health. Visit our office in New York, New York, or call (347) 757-5475 to book an appointment today.