by Joel Harrison
22. January 2011 14:17
Dry eye syndrome affects a considerable portion of every society. In America, for instance, it is estimated that around 20 million people suffer from its symptoms. So far, the condition has been treated with eye drops, but they do not do it effectively enough for many patients, so scientists kept looking for a better solution. Now researchers from Duke University offer an entirely new one: a set of special contact lenses.
The lenses are significantly bigger than standard ones and vault over the cornea, sitting on the sclera. The part that is placed over the cornea is filled with sterile saline acting as a liquid bandage, bringing relief to the patient by cushioning the cornea and protecting it from irritation.
Like regular contact lenses, the new ones can be worn continuously. However, they are custom made, so they do not necessarily correct a patient’s vision. According to the researchers from Duke University, the lenses are extremely effective, but should be used only by those who do not benefit from conventional therapies.
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