Living With Sjogren's Disease?
Sjogren's disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the exocrine glands, including those that produce tears.
Sjogren's patients often struggle to find relief for their dry eyes, and traditional treatments may not always provide the comfort they need. In recent years, scleral lenses have emerged as a promising solution for managing dry eyes associated with Sjogren's disease.
In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about scleral lenses, their benefits, and how they can make a significant difference for individuals dealing with Sjogren's-related dry eyes.
What are Scleral Lenses?
Scleral lenses are large, gas-permeable contact lenses that cover the entire cornea and extend onto the white part of the eye, known as the sclera.
Unlike traditional contact lenses, scleral lenses create a fluid-filled vault over the cornea, providing a stable and moist environment for the eye.
Benefits for Sjogren's Disease Patients
Scleral lenses can help Sjogren's patients manage their dry eyes in several ways:
Increased Moisture Retention
Scleral lenses trap a reservoir of tears between the lens and the cornea, offering prolonged hydration throughout the day.
Protection from Environmental Irritants
The larger size of scleral lenses provides a barrier, shielding the eyes from irritants and reducing exposure to dry and dusty environments.
Improved Vision Quality
Scleral lenses provide a smooth and even surface, correcting vision distortions caused by irregularities in the cornea due to dryness.
Long-Lasting Comfort
Scleral lenses are known for their extended wear time, offering comfort from morning to night without the need for frequent removal and reapplication.
Reduced Friction and Discomfort
The liquid-filled vault created by scleral lenses minimizes friction between the lens and the cornea, reducing discomfort and irritation.
Scleral Lenses and Sjogren's Disease
Addressing Severe Dry Eye Symptoms
Sjogren's disease often leads to severe dry eye symptoms. Scleral lenses are particularly effective in managing these symptoms by providing continuous moisture and protection.
Enhancing Quality of Life
Patients with Sjogren's disease report a significant improvement in their quality of life after adopting scleral lenses. The lenses alleviate dryness, irritation, and light sensitivity.
Customization for Individual Needs
Scleral lenses are customizable to each patient's unique eye shape and condition, ensuring an optimal fit and maximum effectiveness.
Getting Started with Scleral Lenses
Consultation with an Eye Care Professional
Schedule a consultation with an optometrist or ophthalmologist experienced in fitting scleral lenses. They will assess your eyes and determine if scleral lenses are the right choice for you.
Measurement and Customization
Precise measurements are taken to customize the lenses for your eyes. The fitting process ensures a comfortable and effective lens-wearing experience.
Insertion and Removal Training
Your eye care professional will provide thorough training on how to insert, remove, and care for your scleral lenses. While it may seem daunting initially, many patients quickly adapt to the routine.
Follow-Up Appointments
Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the fit and address any adjustments needed for ongoing comfort and optimal performance.
The Financial Cost of Scleral Lenses Cost
The cost of scleral lenses can vary depending on several factors, such as the eye care professional's fees, the type of lens, and any additional services required, such as prescription medications or fittings.
On average, scleral lenses can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 per eye.
You Can Get Scleral Lenses With A Prescription
If a patient requires a prescription for their scleral lenses, such as for astigmatism or nearsightedness, this can add to the cost.
The prescription may require additional customization of the lens, which can increase the fees charged by the eye care professional.
It is worth noting that some insurance plans may cover some or all of the cost of scleral lenses, depending on the patient's coverage and the reason for the lenses.
Patients should check with their insurance provider to see if scleral lenses are covered under their plan and if there are any restrictions or limitations.
Scleral Lenses are an Effective Solution for Managing Dry Eyes in Sjogren's Patients
Scleral lenses have proven to be a game-changer for individuals with Sjogren's disease, offering a reliable and effective solution for managing severe dry eye symptoms.
If you're struggling with dry eyes due to Sjogren's, consult with your eye care professional to explore the potential benefits of scleral lenses.
Make dry eyes a thing of the past and embrace the comfort and clarity that scleral lenses can bring to your daily life.
If you are a new Sjogren's patient and looking to connect with other patients, be sure to connect with Heather on her social accounts. You can find her TikTok account here.
