Are you one of the many people living with keratoconus? If so, you know how challenging it can be to find contact lenses that fit comfortably and provide clear vision. However, there is hope in the form of scleral lenses. Not only can they help improve your vision, but they can also provide relief for dry eye, a common issue for those with keratoconus. Let’s explore how these specialized lenses can make a difference in your life.
What is keratoconus?
Keratoconus is a condition that affects the cornea, or the outermost clear layer of your eye. A healthy and properly shaped cornea is round, allowing light to enter the eye and focus correctly on the retina. However, with keratoconus, the cornea thins and bulges into an irregular cone shape. This can cause symptoms like:
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Blurry and double vision
Importance of choosing the right lenses
Contact lenses are not one-size-fits-all, especially for those with keratoconus. Poor-fitting lenses can cause discomfort, impact your vision, and even damage your cornea. That’s why you should consult with an eye care professional who can custom-fit your contacts while considering your eye shape and lifestyle.
Scleral contact lenses for keratoconus
While there isn’t a cure for keratoconus, wearing specialty contact lenses can help manage symptoms and provide clear vision and a comfortable fit. At Baymeadows Vision Center, we offer custom-fit scleral lenses in Jacksonville for our keratoconus patients.
Scleral lenses are larger than standard contact lenses and vault over the cornea, resting on the white part of the eye (sclera). By replacing the cornea’s uneven surface with a new, smooth surface, these lenses significantly improve vision. They can correct vision problems associated with keratoconus that regular glasses and contact lenses can’t.
Dry eye and keratoconus
Many people with keratoconus experience dryness, irritation, and discomfort due to reduced tear production or poor tear quality. Scleral lenses help by creating a reservoir of saline solution between the lens and the cornea, providing constant lubrication throughout the day. This can significantly reduce dry eye symptoms and improve overall comfort while wearing contacts. Our dry eye specialists in Jacksonville can assess your symptoms and figure out if scleral lenses are the best option for you!
Living with keratoconus can be challenging, but you don’t have to stop wearing contacts with this condition. At Baymeadows Vision Center, we offer scleral lenses for our keratoconus patients to help them achieve the best vision possible. Using advanced technology, our experienced optometrists can create a highly detailed map of your eyes and develop fully customizable scleral lenses to fit your vision needs. Contact us today to book an appointment or request an appointment online.