Dry eye can be more than occasional irritation. For some patients, symptoms become constant and affect comfort, vision, work, driving, and daily life. At Premier Eye Care Optometry in San Bernardino, we help patients understand when dry eye may be connected to severe ocular surface disease and whether scleral lenses may be a helpful option.

Scleral lenses are specialty contact lenses that are larger than standard soft lenses. Instead of resting directly on the cornea, they vault over the front surface of the eye and rest on the white part of the eye. This design creates a space between the lens and the cornea that can hold preservative-free saline. For patients with ongoing dryness, irritation, or corneal sensitivity, this fluid layer acts like a continuous hydration chamber.
 

Why Scleral Lenses Help With Severe Dry Eye

When the surface of the eye is compromised, the tear film may not protect the cornea the way it should. This can lead to burning, redness, blurry vision, light sensitivity, and a gritty feeling that does not go away with over-the-counter drops. Scleral lenses help by keeping the cornea covered in moisture throughout the day.

For many San Bernardino patients, scleral lenses are considered when dry eye symptoms are more advanced or when other treatment options have not provided enough relief. They may also be recommended for certain corneal conditions, irregular corneas, or ocular surface disease that makes traditional contact lenses uncomfortable.
 

How the Hydration Chamber Works

Before insertion, a scleral lens is filled with sterile saline. Once placed on the eye, the lens holds that fluid against the cornea. Because the lens does not sit directly on the cornea, it can reduce friction from blinking and help protect sensitive tissue.

This makes scleral lenses different from traditional contact lenses, which may worsen dryness for some patients. With the right fit, scleral lenses can support clearer vision and improved comfort at the same time.
 

Signs You May Need a Dry Eye Evaluation

A comprehensive evaluation is important before deciding if scleral lenses are right for you. During your visit, we look at your tear film, ocular surface, corneal health, and overall comfort needs.

Patients may benefit from a dry eye or scleral lens evaluation if they experience:

• Burning, stinging, or gritty eyes that keep coming back
• Blurry vision that changes throughout the day
• Redness or light sensitivity
• Discomfort with standard contact lenses
• Dry eye symptoms that do not improve with artificial tears
• A history of severe ocular surface disease or corneal problems

Custom Fit Matters

Scleral lenses must be carefully measured and customized. A poor fit can cause discomfort or fail to provide the needed protection. At our San Bernardino optometry practice, we take the time to evaluate the shape of your eye and make sure the lens is designed for comfort, stability, and healthy wear.

Our goal is to help patients find practical relief while protecting long-term eye health. For those dealing with severe dry eye, scleral lenses may provide the moisture barrier and visual clarity they have been missing.
 

For scleral lenses and dry eye care in San Bernardino, CA, contact Premier Eye Care Optometry at 1055 E. Harriman Pl. by calling (909) 757-0700 to schedule an appointment.