Understanding Keratoconus: How Scleral Lenses Can Transform Your Vision

Keratoconus changes the shape of your cornea. It causes significant changes in how someone sees. Instead of being round, the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape. This leads to blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty performing everyday tasks.
 

What Is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus develops when the cornea weakens and loses its normal round shape. The exact cause is not always clear, but genetics and environmental factors are involved. It often starts in the teenage years and may worsen over time.
 

How Does Keratoconus Affect Vision?

A cone-shaped cornea bends light differently than a round one, distorting your vision. This makes objects look blurry, wavy, or out of focus. Someone with this condition experiences glare or halos around lights, especially at night. Standard glasses or soft contact lenses might not correct these problems.
 

What Are Scleral Lenses?

Scleral lenses are large, gas-permeable contact lenses that sit on the white part of the eye. They do not touch the cornea directly, which helps protect its fragile surface. They form the ideal optical surface to correct vision. They also hold a layer of fluid to keep the eyes hydrated.
 

Why Are Scleral Lenses Ideal for Keratoconus?

Scleral lenses are specially designed for irregular corneas, making them perfect for people with keratoconus. With these lenses, users see clearer because they cover the cornea and create a smooth surface for light. They are larger than regular lenses, so they stay in place and feel comfortable all day.
 

They work for more advanced cases of keratoconus when other treatments fail.
 

Benefits of Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses offer several advantages for people with keratoconus:
 

• Improved Vision — They provide sharper and more stable vision than glasses or regular contacts.

• Comfort — Their larger size reduces irritation and feels comfortable for long periods.

• Hydration — The fluid layer helps soothe dry or sensitive eyes.

• Protection — They shield the cornea from further damage or irritation.
   

Getting Fitted for Scleral Lenses

Visit a skilled eye care professional. The fitting process includes measuring the shape of your cornea. This ensures the lenses sit correctly on the eye. The doctor will map your eye’s surface using advanced tools, like corneal topography. They will also guide you on how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses.
 

Other Treatment Options for Keratoconus

While scleral lenses are highly effective, they are not the only option. In early stages, glasses or soft contact lenses may help. For moderate cases, rigid gas-permeable lenses or hybrid lenses might be recommended.
 

In severe cases, procedures like corneal cross-linking or a corneal transplant could be necessary. Your eye doctor can help you decide the best treatment based on your needs.
 

Tips for Living with Keratoconus

Protect your eyes by avoiding strenuous activities like excessive screen time. Use sunglasses to reduce sensitivity to bright lights. Follow your doctor’s advice on lens care and regular checkups.
 

Stay proactive about your eye health to maintain the best vision possible. With the right tools and care, living with keratoconus becomes much easier.
 

Keratoconus does not have to define how you see the world. Scleral lenses provide a way to regain clear, comfortable vision. Talk to your eye care provider about whether they are the right choice for you.
 

For more on keratoconus, visit Ellis Eye Optometry. Our office is in Lancaster, California. Call (661) 218-2300 to book an appointment today.

 

Sources:

https://modernod.com/articles/2024-apr/managing-keratoconus-with-scleral-lenses

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-health-keratoconus