Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment: The Path to Clearer Vision with Scleral Lenses
Article Overview:
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the implications of Dry Eye Syndrome, a common but often overlooked condition that can significantly hamper the quality of life. From understanding its causes and symptoms to discussing the limitations of traditional treatments, we’ve provided a holistic view of the disease. The highlight of the guide is the introduction and elaboration of scleral lenses as a transformative treatment option for DES. With expert insights from Dr. Edward Boshnick and an in-depth examination of patient experiences, we’ve elucidated how scleral lenses can provide significant relief and enhance vision.
Takeaways:
- Dry Eye Syndrome, while common, can significantly impact the quality of life, necessitating effective treatment options.
- Traditional treatments, while helpful, may have limitations and don’t always address the underlying issues causing dry eye syndrome.
- Scleral lenses offer a promising solution to Dry Eye Syndrome by creating a reservoir of fluid that keeps the eye moist and allows for healing.
- Dr. Edward Boshnick, an expert in the field, has been instrumental in advancing the use of scleral lenses to treat dry eye.
- Getting fitted for scleral lenses involves a meticulous process, ensuring a perfect fit that’s comfortable and beneficial for the user.
- Living with scleral lenses can significantly improve the quality of life by reducing symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome and improving vision.
- With proper care and maintenance, scleral lenses can be a long-term solution for individuals suffering from Dry Eye Syndrome.
Introduction
Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is a common and often chronic issue many individuals face. The symptoms, ranging from minor irritations to significant discomfort, can affect one’s quality of life. However, a breakthrough treatment in the form of scleral lenses offers a new ray of hope for those dealing with DES.
Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry Eye Syndrome is a condition where your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to stay nourished and lubricated. This often results in persistent dryness, scratchiness, red eyes, and a burning sensation. Severe dry eye can even lead to inflammation and damage to the eye’s surface.
Several factors can cause DES. These range from aging, specific medical conditions, certain medications, environmental conditions, to prolonged screen time. Understanding these causes can help manage the symptoms and decide on the most effective treatment.
The impact of DES on the quality of life can be substantial. Difficulty in performing everyday activities, like reading, driving, working on a computer, can occur, and overall discomfort can be quite distressing. Moreover, DES often leads to more frequent visits to eye doctors, leading to increased healthcare costs.
Traditional Treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome
Traditionally, dry eye treatments have focused on eye drops and artificial tears to help alleviate symptoms. Prescription drops to increase tear production, medications to reduce inflammation, and procedures to close tear ducts are also commonly employed.
However, while these treatments can offer some relief, they often fall short in effectively managing the condition, especially in more severe cases. The temporary relief they offer often doesn’t address the underlying issue, leading to persistent discomfort.
Scleral Lenses: A New Hope
Enter scleral lenses — a revolutionary approach to DES management. Scleral lenses, as championed by Dr. Edward Boshnick, are large-diameter gas permeable contact lenses specially designed to vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the ‘white’ part of the eye (sclera).
These lenses create a tear-filled vault over the dry cornea, providing continuous hydration while also correcting vision issues caused by irregular corneas. For those suffering from DES, this means longer-lasting relief and improved vision.
Scleral Lenses for Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment
Scleral lenses provide several key benefits for DES treatment. Not only do they offer relief from the uncomfortable symptoms, but they also improve vision clarity in those with corneal irregularities, often a result of DES.
Many patients have found success with scleral lenses where other treatments have failed. Case studies show that scleral lenses significantly improve the quality of life for DES patients. Many such success stories belong to patients of Dr. Edward Boshnick, who has dedicated his practice to helping those with severe ocular surface diseases using scleral lenses.
This patient has suffered from chronically dry eyes which have affected the quality of her life. Over the years she was unable to tolerate contact lenses. 2 years ago we fit both of her eyes with oxygen permeable scleral lenses which have transformed her life. She now has clear (20/20) comfortable vision with all day lens wear.
Getting Your Own Scleral Lenses
The process of getting fitted for scleral lenses starts with a comprehensive eye examination. This includes detailed measurements of the curvature of your eyes using advanced imaging technologies. Once the lens parameters are determined, a custom lens is created for each eye.
During the fitting process, you can expect your eye doctor to assess the lens fit and vision correction by using a high-powered slit lamp. The doctor might also take your feedback on comfort and vision into account.
Living with Scleral Lenses
Once you start wearing scleral lenses, you’ll need to follow certain maintenance and care guidelines to keep your eyes healthy. Cleaning the lenses daily, avoiding tap water contact, using fresh saline solution every time you wear them, and regular follow-ups with your eye doctor are critical.
Adapting to life with scleral lenses can take some time. But, most patients find that the benefits of improved vision and comfort outweigh any inconvenience. Plus, as these lenses are larger and more stable on the eye than traditional contacts, they are less likely to accidentally dislodge from the eye.
Conclusion
In conclusion, scleral lenses offer a promising treatment alternative for Dry Eye Syndrome. They provide relief from uncomfortable symptoms and improve vision, offering a new lease on life to those affected. If you’re considering this treatment option, remember you’re not alone, and experts like Dr. Edward Boshnick are there to guide you through the process. Embark on your path to clearer vision with scleral lenses today!
Stay tuned for FAQs about Dry Eye Syndrome and Scleral Lenses, which will answer some of your most pressing questions about this treatment option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Dry Eye Syndrome and what causes it? Dry Eye Syndrome is a chronic condition where your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the right quality of tears, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, and other symptoms. Factors like aging, certain medical conditions, and environmental influences can cause it.
What are scleral lenses and how do they work? Scleral lenses are specialized contact lenses that rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye) and create a tear-filled vault over the cornea. This helps to keep the eye’s surface moist and corrects vision.
Why are scleral lenses a good option for treating Dry Eye Syndrome? Scleral lenses can retain moisture, provide a smooth surface for light to enter the eye, and correct vision effectively. This makes them an excellent treatment option for Dry Eye Syndrome.
What are some success stories of patients using scleral lenses for Dry Eye Syndrome? There are numerous success stories of patients who have found relief from Dry Eye Syndrome using scleral lenses. You can find some of them here.
What is the process of getting fitted for scleral lenses? The process involves a comprehensive eye examination, detailed measurements of your eyes, creating custom lenses, and then assessing the fit and correction.
How do I care for my scleral lenses? Daily cleaning, avoiding tap water contact, using fresh saline solution every time you wear them, and regular follow-ups with your eye doctor are essential. The Scleral Lens Education Society provides more detailed information on scleral lens care.
How long does it take to adjust to life with scleral lenses? The adjustment period varies among individuals. Most patients adapt within a few weeks and find the improved vision and comfort worth the initial effort.
Who is Dr. Edward Boshnick? Dr. Edward Boshnick is a leading expert in the field of scleral lenses. He has dedicated his career to providing patients with comprehensive vision care, including the fitting of scleral lenses for conditions like Dry Eye Syndrome. Learn more about Dr. Boshnick here.
