PROSE

This article is a guideline only and is not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Living with keratoconus can be challenging, but advancements in eye care have brought forth effective solutions, one of which is the use of scleral lenses. If you've recently been diagnosed with keratoconus or are considering scleral lenses as a treatment option, visiting a specialist is an important step in your journey to better vision. In this article, we'll explore what you can expect when visiting a keratoconus scleral lens specialist. Understanding Keratoconus  Before delving into the specialist visit, it's important to understand what keratoconus is. Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition in which the cornea thins and bulges into a cone-like shape. This distortion can cause visual impairment, making it challenging to see clearly. Scleral lenses are specially designed lenses that vault over the entire corneal surface, providing a more stable and comfortable vision correction option for individuals with keratoconus. Think of the scleral lens as a “new” cornea, which creates the shape of a typical cornea and allows light to enter the eye at the correct angle for good vision. The Specialist's Expertise A keratoconus scleral lens specialist is an optometrist or ophthalmologist with expertise in fitting and managing scleral lenses. During your visit, the specialist will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to assess the severity of your keratoconus and determine if scleral lenses are the right fit for you. Customized Fitting [...]

This article is a guideline only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that affects the cornea, which is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye. In individuals with keratoconus, the cornea gradually thins and bulges into a cone-like shape instead of maintaining its normal round curvature. This abnormality can lead to distorted vision and visual impairment. Causes of Keratoconus  The exact cause of keratoconus is not well understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. The condition typically starts during adolescence or early adulthood and progresses over time. Several factors may contribute to the development of keratoconus. These include: Genetics: A family history of keratoconus increases the risk. Eye Rubbing: Constant rubbing of the eyes may contribute to corneal thinning. Connective Tissue Disorders: Conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may be linked to keratoconus. Environmental Factors: UV light exposure and oxidative stress may play a role. How Keratoconus Affects Daily Life  How keratoconus affects daily life can vary from person to person, but some common effects include: Visual Distortions: Keratoconus often causes blurred and distorted vision. Straight lines may appear wavy, and individuals may experience multiple images, ghosting, or halos around lights. Frequent Changes in Prescription: Due to the progressive nature of keratoconus, individuals may experience frequent changes in their eyeglasses or contact lens prescriptions. Adjustments may be needed to maintain optimal vision. [...]

Living with Sjögren’s Syndrome can present a unique set of challenges, with dry eyes being one of the most common and bothersome symptoms. Managing dry eyes in Sjögren’s Syndrome requires a multifaceted approach that combines medical intervention with lifestyle adjustments. In this post, we will explore effective tips for managing dry eyes in individuals with Sjögren’s Syndrome, helping you find relief and improve your overall quality of life. 1. Stay Hydrated  One of the fundamental aspects of managing dry eyes in Sjögren’s Syndrome is maintaining proper hydration. Drinking an adequate amount of water helps to lubricate the eyes and can alleviate symptoms of dryness. Ask your doctor what your goal should be for water intake each day and consider using a humidifier in your living environment to add moisture to the air. 2. Artificial Tears and Lubricating Eye Drops  Over-the-counter artificial tears and lubricating eye drops can provide quick relief for dry eyes. These products help to supplement the natural tears, reducing irritation and promoting a more comfortable sensation. Choose preservative-free options to minimize the risk of sensitivity or allergic reactions. 3. Warm Compresses  Applying warm compresses to your closed eyelids can help open up the oil glands in the eyelids, promoting the production of natural tears. Use a clean, warm washcloth and place it over your closed eyes for 5-10 minutes. This can be particularly beneficial in the morning or before bedtime. 4. Protect Your Eyes Shield your eyes from harsh environmental conditions, such as wind, dust, and smoke, [...]

*This article is a guideline only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for recommended treatment options. Sjögren’s Syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting millions worldwide, primarily targets the body's moisture-producing glands, leading to symptoms such as dry eyes and mouth. Recent years have witnessed groundbreaking research and significant strides in treating Sjögren’s Syndrome, offering hope to those living with this challenging condition. Here we outline some of the latest research and advances in Sjögren’s Syndrome treatment, shedding light on promising developments that could revolutionize patient care. Biological Therapies: Unveiling Precision Medicine  Cutting-edge research in Sjögren’s Syndrome treatment has paved the way for personalized approaches, specifically targeting the underlying immune system dysfunction. Biological therapies, also known as biologics, are designed to modify the immune response at a molecular level. These therapies aim to address the root cause of Sjögren’s Syndrome, providing a more targeted and efficient treatment option. B-cell Targeted Therapies: Navigating the Immune System  Recent studies have focused on the role of B-cells in Sjögren’s Syndrome, leading to the development of B-cell targeted therapies. Medications such as rituximab, which depletes B-cells, have shown promise in reducing symptoms and improving overall quality of life for patients. This breakthrough offers a new avenue for treatment, especially for those who have not responded well to traditional approaches. Neurostimulation: Pioneering Innovative Solutions  Researchers are exploring neurostimulation as a potential treatment for Sjögren’s Syndrome symptoms in a groundbreaking approach. By targeting the nerves that [...]

*This article is a guideline only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for treatment options. Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that affects the cornea, leading to a distorted and cone-shaped bulge. This not only impacts the clarity of vision but also poses challenges in finding suitable corrective measures. In this blog post, we delve into the intricacies of keratoconus and explore the revolutionary benefits of scleral lenses in addressing this vision impairment. Understanding Keratoconus  Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory eye disorder that usually manifests during adolescence or early adulthood. The cornea, which is typically round, thins and gradually transforms into a cone shape, causing blurry and distorted vision. Common symptoms include increased sensitivity to light, frequent changes in prescription glasses, and difficulty seeing clearly, even with corrective lenses. Diagnosing Keratoconus  Early detection is crucial in managing keratoconus effectively. Eye care professionals employ a combination of corneal topography and slit-lamp examinations to diagnose this condition. If left untreated, keratoconus can progress, leading to more severe visual impairment and potential discomfort. Scleral Lenses: A Visionary Solution  A non-surgical option for keratoconus, scleral lenses have emerged as a revolutionary solution for individuals with keratoconus, providing unparalleled comfort and visual acuity. These specialty lenses vault over the cornea, resting on the sclera (the white part of the eye), creating a smooth optical surface that compensates for the irregular shape of the cornea.  PROSE treatment may be necessary in more severe cases of keratoconus. [...]

*This article is a guideline only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for recommended treatment options. Sjögren’s Syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the body’s moisture-producing glands, often presents challenges for those who wear contact lenses. The hallmark symptoms of dry eyes and mouth can make contact lens wear uncomfortable and, in some cases, exacerbate the condition. In this article, we’ll explore essential considerations for individuals with Sjögren’s Syndrome who use or are considering using contact lenses, offering insights and tips to enhance comfort and eye health. 1. Choose the Right Type of Contact Lenses  Opting for the right type of contact lenses can make a significant difference for individuals with Sjögren’s Syndrome. Daily disposable lenses are often recommended, as they minimize the risk of contamination and reduce the need for cleaning solutions that may cause irritation. Silicone hydrogel lenses, known for their enhanced breathability, can also be a suitable option. 2. Preservative-Free Lubricating Drops  Incorporating preservative-free lubricating eye drops into your contact lens routine is crucial. Sjögren’s Syndrome diminishes natural tear production, leading to dry eyes. These drops can help maintain moisture and improve comfort while wearing contact lenses. Keep them on hand throughout the day for quick relief. 3. Hydration and Diet  Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall eye health, especially for individuals with Sjögren’s Syndrome. Proper hydration can influence tear production, impacting contact lens comfort. Additionally, consider with your doctor whether adding omega-3 fatty acids [...]

This article is a guideline only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always contact your eye care doctor with questions and for recommended treatment options. Sjögren’s Syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder, doesn't just affect the moisture-producing glands in your body; it can also wreak havoc on your eyes. As the immune system mistakenly attacks the glands that produce tears and saliva, individuals with Sjögren’s often experience a range of eye problems. In this article, we'll delve into five common eye issues associated with Sjögren’s Syndrome, shedding light on the impact this condition can have on ocular health. 1. Dry Eyes: The Telltale Sign  Dry eyes are a hallmark symptom of Sjögren’s Syndrome. The lacrimal glands, responsible for tear production, become a primary target of the immune system, leading to inadequate lubrication of the eyes. This chronic dryness can result in irritation, a gritty sensation, and increased sensitivity to light, significantly affecting the quality of life for those with Sjögren’s. 2. Conjunctivitis: Beyond the Redness  Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is another prevalent eye problem associated with Sjögren’s Syndrome. The inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer covering the white part of the eye, can cause redness, itching, and discharge. Identifying and treating conjunctivitis promptly is crucial to prevent complications and alleviate discomfort. 3. Corneal Damage: A Serious Concern  Sjögren’s Syndrome can also lead to corneal damage due to persistent dryness. The cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, relies on a healthy tear film for nourishment [...]