It is a progressive condition that makes the clear, dome-shaped surface of the eye- the cornea be thinned. Hence, it bulges outward into a cone, making its normally regular shape interfere with clear vision. Classically, it also presents with symptoms of blurred vision and photophobia, and these patients frequently change their prescriptions. More severe stages are likely to have inadequately corrected vision with conventional glasses and soft contact lenses. Scleral lenses can sometimes be considered a very effective therapy for keratoconus, as they improve vision, comfort, and eye protection.
Understanding Keratoconus and Its Challenges
Keratoconus prevents the cornea from focusing light upon the retina, hence distorted vision. Glasses or soft contact lenses may be used to correct this vision impairment during the early stages, but as it advances, the form of the cornea becomes too irregular, and other conventional vision correction devices fail to work properly. It happens in such a way that the patient suffering from it is not only having a defective vision but also considerable discomfort, glare, and eye irritation.
Untreated keratoconus can cause serious cases of corneal scarring with a corresponding diminution in the quality of vision and sometimes even lead to a corneal transplant. Detection and proper management of the disease are done early before such outcomes occur, and for many patients, a revolution has come about in terms of scleral lenses.
What are Scleral Contact Lenses?
Scleral contact lenses are large-diameter GP lenses designed to vault over the entire corneal surface and rest against the sclera, the white of the eye. Unlike traditional contact lenses that sit on the cornea, scleral lenses vault over this irregular cornea to create a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the corneal surface. This reservoir offers comfort by maintaining hydration of the cornea and masks the irregular shape of the cornea, making it possible for much clearer entry of light into the eye.
Why Scleral Lenses Are Best for Keratoconus
Here are the reasons why scleral lenses have become the best choice in the treatment of keratoconus:
- Better Quality Vision
Among other characteristics, the most important feature of scleral lenses is the quality vision correction. By vaulting over the irregularly shaped cornea, these lenses create a smooth optical surface that works against the distortion created by the keratoconus within the cornea. This yields much sharper and less fluctuating vision than would be obtained from either glasses or soft lenses. Patients comment on seeing much sharper images and fewer problems with glare and halos around lights, both common symptoms of keratoconus.
- Comfort and Hydration
Scleral lenses sit on the white of the eye, or sclera, not the cornea, so they are less likely to be uncomfortable or irritating. In patients with keratoconus, it may be too sensitive to tolerate the rubbing sensation of regular contact lenses. The fluid reservoir created by scleral lenses allows the cornea to stay moist, providing an added source of relief for patients whose eyes, due to keratoconus, are very dry or sensitive, a common issue in keratoconus patients.
- Protection and Stability
The main complaint of Keratoconus patients is the thinning of the cornea, leaving it prone to injury. The protective characteristic of scleral lenses covers and shields the cornea against environmental irritants, dust, etc., and damage from potential trauma. Their larger size also stabilizes them and makes them less likely to become dislodged due to blinking or physiologic activity-that is, providing a tighter and more stable fit than smaller lenses.
- Customization for Every Patient
Every scleral lens is carved to be custom-fit for the unique shape and needs of each patient’s eye, thus allowing for the most effective correction of their problem and comfort, and stability. Using advanced diagnostic tools and fitting techniques, practitioners can now better design lenses that address the unique irregularities of the cornea in an elegant, holistic way.
The Fitting Process: What to Expect
Getting fitted for scleral lenses requires a complete eye exam and detailed mapping of the cornea. During the fitting process, an eye care professional uses specialized imaging technology to create a detailed map of the shape and structure of the patient’s cornea. Using this information, the clinician designs a lens that will fit precisely over the cornea and rest comfortably on the sclera.
Once the lenses are made, the patient shall be brought to the clinic for a fitting session and modified if necessary to ensure fitting and correction of visions properly.
Some patients will need to be called back in for more follow-up visits after the first visit to check on everything’s working well and possibly troubleshoot matters that might present.
Conclusion
Scleral contact lenses have transformed the management of keratoconus for patients into an effective, safe, and comfortable approach to correcting vision. Scleral lenses create a smooth optical surface, are minimally discomforting, and support the cornea; therefore, they have become the primary option for many keratoconus patients who cannot participate in any activity with regular methods of correcting vision.
If you or someone you care about are suffering from keratoconus and cannot attain clear vision using glasses or soft contact lenses, there is no reason not to discuss scleral lenses with an eye care specialist-they may be the solution that clears up the view.