Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus: Treating Corneal Irregularities

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front part of the eye, gradually thins and bulges into a cone-like shape. This irregular corneal shape can cause significant vision problems, including blurred and distorted vision, light sensitivity, and difficulty with night driving.

Understanding Keratoconus

The exact causes of keratoconus are not fully understood, but it is believed to be the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Factors such as eye rubbing, chronic eye inflammation, and certain medical conditions like atopic dermatitis and Down syndrome may contribute to the development and progression of keratoconus.

The symptoms of keratoconus can vary greatly from person to person, but they typically include:
 

• Blurred or distorted vision
   

• Increased sensitivity to glare and light
   

• Difficulty with night vision
   

• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions
   

• Eye strain and fatigue

As keratoconus progresses, the irregular shape of the cornea can significantly impair your visual acuity, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks such as reading, driving, or using a computer.

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are a specialized type of contact lens that are designed to provide an effective solution for individuals with keratoconus and other corneal irregularities. Unlike traditional contact lenses, which rest directly on the cornea, scleral lenses are larger in diameter and vault over the entire cornea, resting on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera.

The unique design of scleral lenses creates a fluid-filled space between the lens and the cornea, known as the tear reservoir. This tear reservoir helps to smooth out the irregular corneal surface, providing clear and comfortable vision. The lenses are made of highly oxygen-permeable materials, ensuring that your eyes receive adequate oxygen supply while you wear them.

Scleral lenses are custom-fitted to each individual's unique eye shape and size, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. The fitting process typically involves a series of measurements and evaluations by an eye care professional, such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist, to determine the optimal lens parameters for your needs.

Benefits of Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus Patients

Scleral lenses offer a range of benefits for individuals with keratoconus, making them a highly effective solution for managing this condition:
 

• Improved Visual Acuity: The fluid-filled space between the scleral lens and the cornea helps to correct the irregular corneal shape, providing clearer and sharper vision compared to traditional contact lenses or glasses.
   

• Enhanced Comfort: Scleral lenses rest on the sclera, rather than directly on the cornea, which can be sensitive and uncomfortable for individuals with keratoconus. This design helps to minimize eye irritation and discomfort.
   

• Improved Corneal Health: By vaulting over the cornea, scleral lenses can help to protect the delicate corneal tissue from further damage and prevent the progression of keratoconus.
   

• Stable Vision: The custom-fit of scleral lenses helps to minimize the frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions that are common in keratoconus patients, providing more stable and consistent vision.

Are Scleral Lenses Right for You?

For individuals with keratoconus, scleral lenses can be a truly transformative solution, offering the potential for improved visual acuity, enhanced comfort, and better overall eye health. By addressing the irregular corneal shape and providing a protective, fluid-filled environment, scleral lenses can help to mitigate the debilitating effects of keratoconus and empower you to regain control over your vision and your daily life.

If you're struggling with the symptoms of keratoconus and are interested in exploring the benefits of scleral lenses, schedule an appointment with our eye care team today. Visit Reed Optical at our offices in Claremont or Sunapee, New Hampshire. Call (603) 543-3125 to book an appointment today.