Are you tired of dealing with discomfort and vision problems caused by traditional contact lenses? Scleral contact lenses might be the perfect solution for you! At Eyes On Stirling in Davie, we specialize in fitting and providing scleral lenses to help you achieve clear, comfortable vision. Let's explore what scleral lenses are, their benefits, who should consider them, and how to care for them.that may come up.
What Are Scleral Contact Lenses?
Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter gas-permeable lenses designed to vault over the entire corneal surface and rest on the sclera, or the white part of the eye. Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit directly on the cornea, scleral lenses create a tear-filled vault over the cornea, offering unique advantages for those with irregular corneas, dry eyes, or other specific eye conditions.
Benefits of Scleral LensesScleral lenses offer numerous advantages, making them an excellent choice for many individuals:
- Comfort: The tear-filled vault provides a cushion that enhances comfort, particularly for those with sensitive eyes.
- Stability: Their larger size and unique design ensure they stay in place, offering stable and consistent vision correction.
- Improved Vision: Scleral lenses can correct a wide range of refractive errors, including astigmatism and keratoconus.
- Protection: They protect the cornea from further damage and can help with healing in certain conditions.
Idea Candidates for Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are suitable for various conditions and individuals, including:
- People with keratoconus or other corneal irregularities.
- Individuals suffering from severe dry eyes or Sjögren's syndrome.
- Patients who have undergone corneal surgery, such as corneal transplants or refractive surgery.
- Those with sensitive eyes or who experience discomfort with traditional contact lenses.
The Fitting Process
At Eyes On Stirling, we ensure a thorough and precise fitting process for scleral lenses:
- Initial Consultation: We discuss your vision needs and conduct a comprehensive eye exam.
- Measurements: Using advanced imaging technology, we measure the shape and surface of your cornea and sclera.
- Trial Lenses: We fit you with trial lenses to evaluate comfort and vision clarity.
- Final Prescription: Based on your feedback and our assessments, we fine-tune the lenses for optimal fit and performance.
- Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments to ensure the lenses continue to fit well and provide the best vision correction.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance of scleral lenses are crucial for their longevity and your eye health:
- Cleaning Solutions: Use recommended solutions for cleaning and disinfecting your lenses. Avoid using tap water.
- Daily Cleaning: Clean your lenses daily with a preservative-free saline solution.
- Storage: Store lenses in a clean, dry case with fresh disinfecting solution.
- Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses.
Myths and Misconceptions
There are several myths about scleral lenses that need debunking:
- Myth: Scleral lenses are uncomfortable due to their size.
- Fact: Scleral lenses are designed for comfort, and many users find them more comfortable than traditional lenses.
- Myth: Scleral lenses are only for severe cases.
- Fact: While ideal for certain conditions, they are beneficial for anyone seeking improved comfort and vision.
- Myth: Scleral lenses are difficult to care for.
- Fact: With proper guidance, caring for scleral lenses is straightforward and manageable.
Understanding Eye Emergencies
Despite our best efforts to prevent eye injuries, accidents can still happen. Knowing how to respond to an eye emergency can make a significant difference in preserving your vision. Here are some common eye emergencies and how to handle them:
Foreign Objects in the Eye
If a foreign object, such as dirt or metal, gets into your eye, avoid rubbing it. Rubbing can cause scratches or further embed the object. Instead, rinse your eye gently with clean water or saline solution. If the object doesn't come out, seek immediate medical attention.
Chemical Exposure
Accidental exposure to chemicals can cause severe eye damage. If this occurs, flush your eyes with water for at least 15 minutes and seek emergency medical care immediately. Time is critical in preventing long-term damage.
Blunt Trauma
A blow to the eye can result in bruising, swelling, or internal damage. If you experience any vision changes, severe pain, or bleeding, visit our eye care team promptly to assess the injury.
Taking Action to Protect Your Eyes
Injury Prevention Month is a reminder that eye safety should be a priority in our daily lives. By wearing the appropriate protective eyewear for various activities, we can significantly reduce the risk of eye injuries. Remember, safeguarding your vision is an investment in your overall health and well-being.
Spread the word about the importance of eye protection this July, and let's work together to prevent unnecessary eye injuries. Our eye care team at Eyes On Stirling helps you stay safe, and protect your vision every day!