Dry eye syndrome, also known as ocular surface disease (OSD) is a very common health condition that affects millions every year. The condition occurs when the eye fails to produce tears or produces poor quality tears. If left untreated, the dry eye syndrome can escalate and cause serious problems such as scarring and corneal ulcers. Wearing contacts can make dry eyes even worse. Contacts can prevent your eye from receiving the proper level of lubrication it needs. Fortunately, our professional staff at Burcham Eyecare Center can prescribe contacts designed specifically for people suffering from dry eye syndrome.
Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses
Rigid gas permeable lenses are made from a thicker material than soft lenses. They sit on top of the pupil and move with every blink of the eye. Some patients, many with astigmatism, prefer the sharpness of rigid gas permeable lenses to traditional soft contact lenses. Rigid gas permeable lenses can also be helpful for patients who suffer from dry eyes because they allow tears to get underneath them and form a cushioning layer between the lens and the eye.
Scleral Contact Lenses
Scleral contacts are different from conventional lenses in that they do not rest on the cornea. Instead, the lenses sit on the white of the eye and the part of the lens with the prescription vaults over the cornea, not making any contact. This is great for patients suffering from dry eye syndrome because the lens won't dry out the cornea. There will be enough room between the cornea and the lens to keep the lens from drying out the eyes.
Orthokeratology
Orthokeratology or Ortho-K is a set of special lenses that are worn at night. While you are sleeping, the contacts will gently reshape your cornea, correcting your refractive error temporarily. When you wake up in the morning, you should be able to see without needing glasses or contact lenses. For best results, you will need to put the contacts in every night before bed. These lenses are great for patients suffering from dry eye syndrome because it is easier for your eyes to stay lubricated while sleeping. When your eyes are closed, they do not dry out as quickly.
Contact Us for a Consultation
During your contact lens exam, our eye doctor will give you a trial pair of lenses. During this visit, you will sit down with a technician who will teach you how to insert the lenses, remove them, and how to properly clean and care for the lenses. If you are considering contact lenses for your dry eyes or need a lens checkup, call Burcham Eyecare Center in Aurora to schedule an appointment today. Our team is committed to providing the quality eye care you and your family need.