7800 SW 87 AVE SUITE B-270 MIAMI, FLORIDA 33173
305-271-8206
Contact Us
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome, also known as dry eye disease, is a common condition that occurs when the eye does not produce adequate tears to nourish and lubricate the ocular surface. Tears are essential for preserving the health of the ocular surface and ensuring clear vision. Dry eye is a common and often chronic problem, particularly prevalent among older adults.
The lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eye can cause a variety of problems. In the absence of enough tears, the ocular surface may become dry, irritated, and inflamed, leading to discomfort and potential vision issues. This article will delve into the causes, symptoms, and potential treatments for dry eye syndrome, including the use of specialized lenses.
For a focused overview of how the fluid reservoir works, who may be evaluated, fitting considerations, and limitations, read our patient guide to scleral lenses for dry eye.
Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
Several factors can contribute to dry eye syndrome. These include certain medications that many people take on a daily basis, such as antihistamines, contraceptives, hypertension medications, anti-depressants, and sleeping aids. Furthermore, refractive surgeries, such as LASIK, are also significant contributors to the development of dry eye syndrome
A noteworthy element in the cause of dry eye syndrome is the role of the meibomian glands. These glands, located along the inner lining of the eyelids, produce the oily component of the tear film that covers the watery portion of the tear film. If the meibomian glands are compromised, the oily layer of the tear film may be disrupted, allowing the tears to evaporate quickly, which can potentially damage the ocular surface tissues. This insufficient oily layer is a common cause of what is often referred to as evaporative dry eye.
- Over correction or under correction of the visual error
- Induced astigmatism due to a surgically created distorted cornea
- Issues with the LASIK flap
- Loss of vision which cannot be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Halos, double vision, glare and corneal haze
- Poor vision at night and in low light environments
- Chronic dry eyes, burning and ocular pain (corneal neuropathy)
- Post LASIK corneal ectasia which can occur many years after the LASIK was done
- Epithelial ingrowth ( epithelial cells that exist on the cornea surface getting underneath the LASIK flap and then begin to grow).
Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye disease manifests in several ways, with symptoms ranging from minor irritation to significant discomfort. Some of the most common symptoms include redness in the eyes, a burning or itching sensation, unstable or fluctuating vision, a scratching sensation with each blink, and excessive tearing.
Patients may also experience difficulty focusing on close work for extended periods, and unusual mucus or stringy ocular secretions can also be signs of dry eye syndrome. Eye pain, ranging from a sharp to a dull ache, can also be a symptom of dry eye syndrome. This array of symptoms highlights the potential impact of dry eye syndrome on patients’ daily lives and overall quality of life.
Dry Eye Syndrome Treatments
Dry eye treatment depends on whether the main problem is aqueous deficiency, excessive evaporation, eyelid or meibomian gland disease, inflammation, medication effects, nerve dysfunction, exposure, or another ocular surface condition. Management may include environmental changes, preservative-free lubricants, eyelid care, prescription treatment, procedures, or coordinated medical care.
Scleral lenses may be considered when symptoms or ocular surface exposure remain significant despite appropriate care, or when irregular corneal optics also limit vision. The lens is filled with sterile, preservative-free saline and vaults the cornea, creating a fluid reservoir during wear. It does not correct every cause of dry eye and does not replace treatment of underlying inflammation or eyelid and tear-film disease.
Our scleral lenses for dry eye guide explains candidacy, fitting, fogging, hygiene, limitations, and warning symptoms.
Dr. Boshnick and Scleral Lenses for Dry Eye Syndrome
Dr. Boshnick evaluates the ocular surface, eyelids, tear film, corneal shape, vision, prior treatment, and contact lens history before deciding whether a diagnostic scleral lens trial is reasonable. The fitting must provide appropriate corneal and limbal clearance, stable landing, useful optics, and acceptable comfort without creating avoidable eye-health risk.
Outcomes vary. Some patients experience meaningful improvement in comfort or functional vision, while others need design changes, different wear schedules, treatment of lens fogging or wettability, or another management approach. Follow-up is necessary to assess the eye after the lens has settled and after real-world wear.
Patients with autoimmune or severe ocular surface disease may also find these resources useful:
- Scleral lenses for Sjögren’s syndrome and ocular surface disease
- Scleral lenses for GVHD, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and neurotrophic keratitis
Medical sources
- National Eye Institute: Dry eye
- Cleveland Clinic: Scleral lenses
- Peer-reviewed review of scleral lens indications, complications, and outcomes
This page is educational and does not replace diagnosis or individualized medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dry Eye Syndrome is a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears to lubricate and nourish the ocular surface of the eye. This can lead to symptoms like redness, itching, burning, unstable vision, and a scratching sensation during blinking.
Various factors can contribute to Dry Eye Syndrome, including the usage of certain medications like antihistamines, contraceptives, hypertension medications, antidepressants, and sleeping medications. Refractive surgeries such as LASIK can also contribute to the condition. Additionally, compromised meibomian glands, which produce the oily layer of the tear film, can cause dry eye symptoms.
Dr. Boshnick uses scleral lenses, which vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye, to alleviate the symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome. These lenses are filled with a sterile, preservative-free saline solution that creates a moist environment for the ocular surface, reducing dryness and discomfort.
Scleral lenses can be used by patients suffering from significant discomfort and ocular pain due to Dry Eye Syndrome. They are especially useful for patients with severe dryness who have tried other treatment options without success. Dr. Boshnick also recommends them for patients suffering from chronic ocular pain due to refractive surgeries such as Radial Keratotomy and LASIK.
A specialty examination is needed to evaluate the tear film, ocular surface health, corneal shape, symptoms, and prior treatments. Dr. Boshnick can then determine whether a fluid-filled scleral lens is appropriate or whether another form of care should be considered.
Scleral lenses are typically well-tolerated and comfortable as they don’t touch the cornea. They are custom-fitted for each patient, enhancing their overall comfort. Most patients find that their eyes feel consistently hydrated and experience less irritation and discomfort.
Yes, the saline solution between the lens and the cornea can help smooth out irregularities on the eye’s surface, which often leads to improved visual acuity. In addition to symptom relief, many patients fitted with scleral lenses by Dr. Boshnick have reported improved vision.
The adaptation period varies from person to person. Some patients may feel comfortable with their lenses almost immediately, while others may need a few weeks to get accustomed. Dr. Boshnick provides guidance and support throughout this process to ensure the best possible outcome.
Schedule Your Consultation with
Dr. Boshnick
-
-
-
7800 Sw 87 Ave Suite B-270
Miami, Florida 33173
