GENERAL

Everything You Need to Know About Dry Eye Treatment

Dry eye is a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, resulting in an insufficient moisture level in the eyes. It can cause discomfort, itching, redness, burning, and even vision problems. Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, such as aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, environmental factors and medical conditions. It can also occur as a side effect of certain eye surgeries, such as laser vision correction (LASIK).

Has Covid Increased Dry Eye?

It is likely that the increased use of digital devices and screens during the pandemic may also contribute to an increase in dry eye symptoms. Additionally, the stress and anxiety associated with the pandemic may exacerbate existing dry eye symptoms.

How Do I Know If I Have Dry Eye?

Dry eye can cause a range of symptoms that can vary in severity, including:

-A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes

-Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes

-Redness in the eyes

-Watery eyes (as a result of the eye’s irritation)

-Blurry vision, particularly when reading or using digital screens for extended periods of time

-Sensitivity to light

-Eye fatigue or discomfort, particularly after prolonged periods of reading, driving or watching TV

-Difficulty wearing contact lenses

If you experience any of these symptoms, particularly if they are persistent or affecting your quality of life, you may have dry eye syndrome. It is recommended to consult with an eye doctor, who can perform an eye exam to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and provide appropriate options.

What’s The First Step In Treating Dry Eye?

The first step in dry eye treatment is to identify and address any underlying causes or contributing factors. This may involve making lifestyle changes, such as reducing screen time or avoiding exposure to dry, windy or air-conditioned environments. It may also involve discontinuing or adjusting medications that can cause dry eyes as a side effect.

The use of over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can also be an effective first step in treating dry eye. These drops work by replacing or supplementing natural tears, helping to keep the eyes moist and comfortable. Depending on the severity of the dry eye, your doctor may recommend specific types of eye drops, such as preservative-free drops, gels or ointments.

What Are Punctal Plugs?

Punctal plugs can be an effective treatment for dry eyes syndrome. Punctal plugs are small, sterile devices that are inserted into the tear ducts to block the drainage of tears from the eye. This helps to keep natural tears in the eye for a longer period of time, reducing the symptoms of dry eye. Punctal plugs are usually recommended for patients with moderate to severe dry eye symptoms that have not responded to other treatments, such as artificial tears or prescription eye drops. While punctal plugs can be effective in treating dry eye, they are not suitable for everyone. Patients with a history of eye infections or inflammation may not be good candidates for punctal plugs, and the procedure may not be effective for patients with certain types of dry eye.

What Can I Try At Home To Treat Dry Eye?

In addition to using artificial tears, you can also improve the health of your eyelids at home. Many cases of dry eye are associated with blepharitis. Treating blepharitis can help to alleviate dry eye symptoms because the condition often contributes to the development or worsening of dry eye.

Blepharitis is a common eye condition in which the eyelids become inflamed and clogged with bacteria, debris or oil. This can disrupt the natural tear film, leading to dry eye symptoms such as irritation, redness, and discomfort. Additionally, the inflammation caused by blepharitis can impair the function of the meibomian glands in the eyelids, which are responsible for producing the oils that make up the top layer of the tear film.

Treating blepharitis typically involves a combination of techniques to clean and manage the eyelids, such as warm compresses, eyelid scrubs, and antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops or ointments. By reducing inflammation and improving the function of the meibomian glands, blepharitis treatment can help to restore the natural balance of the tear film, reducing dry eye symptoms.

Dry Eye Explained By An Ophthalmologist: Summary

If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, it is important to consult with an eye doctor to determine what may be contributing to your symptoms. They can recommend appropriate treatment options to address both the underlying cause and the dry eye symptoms.