Sjogren’s Syndrome
Scleral Contact Lenses, a Source of Constant Hydration for Severe Dryness
Improving Vision in Cases of Sjogren’s Syndrome
- Where Advanced Technology Meets Compassionate Care
Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to symptoms of dry eyes and dry mouth. This condition arises when the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the moisture-producing glands, resulting in discomfort and potential complications.
Dry eye disease can be exacerbated by Sjogren’s syndrome, and Raleigh Contact Lens Institute has innovative dry eye technologies available to help treat the dry eye aspect of Sjogren’s syndrome. In addition, scleral contact lenses have been used for patients with Sjogren’s syndrome to provide the patient with better vision, comfort, and overall eye health.
Raleigh Contact Lens Institute features advanced technology, longer than normal exam slots, and the technical expertise required to treat patients with Sjogren’s syndrome. We utilize advanced and specialized technology which collects up to 240,000 unique data points to design a fully customized scleral contact lens. Customized scleral contact lenses work well in the case of Sjogren’s syndrome, because the lens vaults entirely over the cornea without adding any pressure to it, while allowing the cornea to remain hydrated for ultimate healing and comfort.
Optimizing Vision for Individuals With Sjogren’s Syndrome
- Dry Eyes and Mouth – Common symptoms include persistent dryness in the eyes and mouth, contributing to discomfort and potential complications
- Autoimmune Origin – Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system targets the body’s tissues, specifically the moisture-producing glands
While there is no cure for Sjogren’s syndrome, a variety of treatment options aim to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent complications.
- Lubricating Eye Drops – These provide relief for dry eyes by supplementing the inadequate tear production associated with Sjogren’s syndrome.
- Prescription Medications – Anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to manage the autoimmune response and reduce symptoms.
- Moisture-Chamber Glasses – Specialized eyewear, like moisture-chamber glasses, can create a more humid environment around the eyes, offering relief from dryness.
- Punctal Plugs – Tiny plugs can be inserted into the tear ducts to block drainage and retain natural tears on the ocular surface.
- Scleral Lenses – Scleral lenses have emerged as an effective option for managing severe dry eye symptoms associated with Sjogren’s syndrome.
- Continuous Moisture – Scleral lenses vault over the cornea, creating a reservoir of saline solution that provides prolonged moisture, addressing persistent dryness
- Reduced Friction – The smooth surface of scleral lenses minimizes friction and irritation, offering relief from discomfort caused by dry eyes
- Protection – Scleral lenses act as a protective barrier, shielding the cornea from environmental factors and reducing the risk of complications
- Visual Clarity – Scleral lenses provide stable visual correction, compensating for irregularities on the ocular surface caused by dryness
Why Choose Raleigh Contact Lens Institute for
Optimizing Vision with Sjogren's Syndrome?
The Team
The team at Raleigh Contact Lens Institute are experts in correcting vision for patients where crisp vision has proven elusive. What some may call “difficult to fit” is our typical patient.
Advanced Technology
Our office is one of a few practices in the country that is equipped with the Pentacam AXL Wave and Optovue Solix OCT, which greatly aid in the design of complex custom specialty contacts.
Unlimited Answers
We allow for enough time for thorough comprehensive exams, and plenty of time for answering questions. No rushing in and out here.
We Focus on Unique Eyes
Our office is equipped to offer advanced specialty contact lenses to individuals who require tailored and custom-designed solutions.
Access to the Doctor
Our doctors are available to answer questions you have after your exam, and will make sure you have the information needed in order to ensure the best possible outcome.
Affordability
We keep our overhead costs low and offer very competitive prices as a result. We have monthly payment options available and also accept CareCredit™, HSA, & FSA.
Summary
Our doctors are nationally recognized for their expertise in utilizing specialty contact lenses, and one use of specialty contact lenses is the management of vision in individuals with Sjogren’s syndrome. Our doctors have focused their career on the latest applications and options for fitting specialty contact lenses and they regularly present to other doctors at both local and national meetings.
There are options for managing vision in cases of Sjogren’s syndrome, including scleral contacts, RGP contacts, and cross-linking. During an initial comprehensive exam, the doctor will discuss all available options. One of the benefits of visiting Raleigh Contact Lens Institute is the amount of one-on-one time with the doctor, which allows for plenty of time to ask questions and evaluate all options.