Vision Therapy in Sharpstown

Scleral Lenses: Breaking Barriers for Sjogren's Syndrome

(713) 774-1124

Understanding Sjogren's Syndrome: An Autoimmune Condition

Sjogren's syndrome is an intricate autoimmune condition that launches an immune system attack on the body's own moisture-producing glands. While it can affect multiple organ systems, it commonly impacts the eyes and mouth.

The result? Persistent dryness in these crucial areas causes not only daily discomfort but also a host of potential complications, with the eyes being particularly vulnerable to its effects.

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Sjogren’s Impact on Daily Life

Living with Sjogren's syndrome is akin to waging a daily battle against one's own body. The dryness experienced in the eyes and mouth causes constant discomfort, affecting every facet of life.

Dry Eyes: The absence of tears leads to a gritty, burning sensation, making simple tasks like reading or blinking painful. Over time, it can damage the cornea — the eye's clear front surface.

Dry Mouth: Beyond affecting the enjoyment of food and drink, a dry mouth can hinder speech, alter taste, and trigger recurrent mouth infections. Saliva plays a crucial role in digestion and dental health, and its absence has far-reaching consequences.


Scleral Lenses in Sharpstown

Our optometry practice in Sharpstown

Photograph of Allen H.  Chin
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday Closed
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • BCBS Federal Employee Program
  • Aetna
  • United Healthcare
  • Cigna
  • EyeMed
  • VSP
  • Spectera
  • Versant Health
  • National Vision Administration (NVA)
  • Medicare
  • Medicare Part B

How Scleral Lenses Counter Sjogren's Syndrome

Sjogren's disease can significantly affect the eyes, leading to persistent dryness, discomfort, and potential complications. Traditional approaches to vision correction, such as glasses or standard contact lenses, often don’t provide relief and can exacerbate symptoms. This is where scleral lenses offer a groundbreaking solution.

The unique design of scleral lenses allows them to arch over the cornea, forming a space that is filled with saline solution. This maintains ocular moisture and acts as a protective shield.

Scleral lenses are tailored to fit individuals’ eyes, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness. Think of it as wearing a perfectly tailored suit for your eyes, designed to match their unique contours.

Here are four compelling reasons why individuals with Sjogren's disease find relief and comfort with scleral lenses:

  • Increased Moisture

    Scleral lenses cover a greater portion of the eye's surface. This design ensures that the eye remains in a moisture-rich environment throughout the day, alleviating dryness and discomfort.

  • Optimal Comfort

    Scleral lenses provide superior comfort due to their unique design. They vault over the cornea, avoiding direct contact with sensitive areas of the eye.

  • Consistent Clarity

    Unlike traditional lenses, scleral lenses offer consistent vision clarity. Dry eyes can cause fluctuations in vision, but scleral lenses help maintain stable and clear eyesight.

  • Protection and Relief

    Scleral lenses act as a protective barrier, shielding the eyes from external irritants and reducing the need for excessive blinking or eye rubbing.

Patient Reviews
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90 Reviews
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- May. 17, 2024
I have been going to Dr. Chin since I was 12 and I an 49 now. The service is always polite and court... eous. The atmosphere is welcoming.
- May. 15, 2024
I've been a patient for more than 30 years and can't speak highly enough of both Dr. Chins. They are... kind, patient, knowledgeable, and honest and the entire staff has always been impressive and personable.
- May. 06, 2024
Only share as anonymously
- Apr. 28, 2024
It was a great experience as usual. Eye glasses are the best vision I've had in 15 years.
- Apr. 23, 2024
Good customer service and fair price 👍
- Apr. 17, 2024
Dr. Allen (Chin) is a wonderful provider. Takes the time to listen and explain what is needed.
- Apr. 16, 2024
Great service and caring staff!!
- Apr. 04, 2024
A+. Knowledgeable and caring, a perfect combo.
- Mar. 28, 2024
I have been going to Dr. Chin for over 20 years and his staff works together like a family.
- Sep. 02, 2023
I have gone here for 30+ years. They know their business. Highly recommended
- Dec. 18, 2022
Have been going here for years. Dr Allen Chin is the best.
- Oct. 11, 2022
Alway a great experience! I experienced an emergency during the week and was not able to go into the... office. I reached out to the office on Saturday, October 8th only to find nothing available. In speaking with Amelia she held me on the phone until she was able to see if a cancellation or short break in the schedule. There was an opening and headed to the office 45 minutes away. Upon my arrival Amelia greeted me with all smiles and told her she was like a breath of fresh air. Shortly after arriving Emily took me back and took great care of me ensuring all my concerns were addressed. Dr. Chin came in to resolve immediately by checking the eyes. Told it was allergies and ordered eye drop for allergy/infection. Thank you guys for being my eye care team since early 80’s.
- May. 16, 2022
Dr. Chin is great! I haven't ever had an appointment with his father, but I'm certain he is wonderfu... l too! Staff is friendly. Large selection of frames. I like that you have options with contact lenses.
- May. 11, 2022
Been going to Dr. Chin for a quiet some time I want to say a little over 10 years great service Dr. ... Chin very knowledgeable when comes to your eye care. Absolutely love the place. Keep it up Dr.Chin I will miss you when you retire I know it’s coming soon.
- Apr. 10, 2022
I have been a patient of a Dr Chin since the late 70's. Starting with Dr Allen H Chin who gave me ex... cellent care when I wore contact lenses. Later my care was assumed by Dr Allen J Chin, his son. I give each of them high marks for the care of my eyes.
- Oct. 02, 2021
Dr. Chin is a great doctor and taking care of the patient! Once my daughter had eyes infection in th... e morning after wearing OK Lens at night. That day unfortunately the doctor's office is closed. I called Dr. Chin's office and explained the situation, Dr. Chin called me and asked us to his office for eyes examination, I was so much released after knowing my daughter's eyes infection is not serious. Thank you so much Dr. Chin!
- Jun. 13, 2021
I’ve been a pt of Dr. Allen Chin since 1984 and have never left. He is very professional, and a c... aring Optomologist . In 2021 I remain his patient. His staff is very professional . As a professional Health Care Provider for46years- I know professionalism and a caring person. I thank God for Dr. Chin
- May. 07, 2021
Best eye doctor I’ve ever been to. Went in with an emergency after getting something stuck in my e... ye and took me right away with no hesitation. Very friendly nurses and doctors! I’m recommending all of my family to come here if they ever need to visit an eye doctor.
- Jun. 25, 2020
I have some complicated eyes. Most doctors gave up on me after trying contacts more than 3-4 times t... o get the right fit, but no Dr. Chin! I thank God I found Dr Chin Sinior !!! I had been going to see him for about 10 years now. I can't say enough good things about him and the people that works there. I drive a long way to go see him. I would not trust my eyes to another Doctor. I highly recommend this practice especially if you have Keratoconus or any other cornea problems. Esteban.
- Mar. 06, 2020
Dr. Chin and his staff were fantastic! I visited his office on a recommendation from my insurance pr... ovider and the proximity of his office to my home. Initially I was rather hesitant even with the great patient reviews because I'd been seeing my previous optometrist of 15+ years. Within minutes of arriving, Dr. Chin and his staff put any and all concerns I may have had at ease. During the pre-exam testing, the staff member that assisted me went above and beyond. She immediately opened up to me regarding herself, which allowed me to more easily provide insights from my own medical and family history. When she handed me off to Dr. Chin, the level of empathy and commitment that he displayed to me was every bit as amazing as hers. Overall, their eagerness to engage in dialogue while offering advice and feedback made me feel like a valued patient in a way that I have never really felt before. I am talkative and inquisitive person by nature, and at no point did they make me feel rushed or as if I was a burden. Dr. Chin even took the extra time to explain the nuances of my vision, and why his findings varied slightly from my previous prescription. He also provided key details regarding the specialty contacts that I've been wearing for 12+ years, that I had never known before (they have an aligned fit)! Further, I highly recommend the optional $30 proactive screening if you can afford it. Upon reviewing the data from my screening, Dr. Chin immediately noticed minor scar tissue that we'll need to monitor, but thankfully it isn't currently a threat to my eye sight. It is great piece of mind to know that as of right now I have nothing to worry about, and we'll continue to monitor the issue with future exams. Not only that, but also let let me know of a $50 rebate on my contacts that will more than offset the cost of the proactive screening. I will certainly be back for my annual screening with Dr. Chin and his staff having full faith in their expertise, level of attentiveness, and care for my well being. Overall, the dialogue and level of engagement during the exam made me feel like I had part ownership of my eyesight wellness for the first time in my 41 years. I've been wearing glasses since I was 8 years old, and I have never "enjoyed" an optometrist exam and visit... until now. Thanks Dr. Chin and Associates! PS - Filling out the paperwork online pre-exam via Zocdoc was a godsend. I wish more health practitioners provided the option.

View All 90 Reviews


How Can I Get Scleral Lenses for My Sjogren's Syndrome?

Getting scleral lenses for Sjogren's syndrome is a journey toward comfort and an enhanced quality of life.

  • Step 1: Consultation with an Expert

    Begin your journey with a consultation with a scleral lens expert who will evaluate your symptoms, assess your specific needs, and determine if scleral lenses are the right option.

  • Step 2: Custom Fitting

    Scleral lenses are not one-size-fits-all; they are tailored to fit your eyes perfectly. Advanced technology takes precise measurements and maps your eye's surface.

  • Step 3: Trial and Adjustment

    Fitting scleral lenses is an iterative process that involves trying on a trial pair for assessment, with adjustments made to achieve optimal comfort.

  • Step 4: Training and Education

    Wearing scleral lenses requires training in insertion and removal and proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and effectiveness.

  • Step 5: Ongoing Care and Monitoring

    Scleral lenses require ongoing care and monitoring through regular appointments with your eye doctor to ensure they continue to fit well and meet your needs. At Lifetime Eyecare & Contact Lens Center, we support you on your journey to relief and comfort.


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Experience Relief with Scleral Lenses from Lifetime Eyecare & Contact Lens Center

Scleral lenses have the potential to provide significant relief and comfort for individuals dealing with the challenges of Sjogren's disease. 

If you or a loved one has Sjogren's disease and is interested in exploring the benefits of scleral lenses, schedule a consultation with Lifetime Eyecare & Contact Lens Center today. Your journey to relief and visual comfort begins here.

(713) 774-1124