Dry eye, a common eye problem, can be caused by a lack of tear production or rapid evaporation. Tears normally keep the eyes moistened and lubricated. However, stinging, burning, dryness, and redness will result if tears are not sufficient to keep the eyes wet and comfortable. While discomfort is the primary result of dry eyes, infection and corneal scarring may occur if left untreated.
Treatment of dry eye syndrome varies based on the medical condition.
Prevention
People who suffer from dry eyes can take steps to prevent the evaporation of tears. Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air and avoiding smoke, wind and other irritating conditions may provide relief.
Artificial Tears
Over the counter eye drops or artificial tears and ointments help to alleviate mild symptoms of dry eye. Some people who are sensitive to preservatives require special preservative free artificial tears. An ointment at bedtime may be required in more severe cases.
Dietary Supplements
A natural relief for some patients suffering from dry eye is to eat foods containing vitamins A, C and E and omega 3 fatty acids which are found in fish and flax seeds.
Restasis®
Restasis® is a prescription eye drop that will sustain your body’s ability to produce natural tears more effectively than over the counter drops.
Punctal Plugs
In some cases, the punctum may be temporarily narrowed or blocked to keep the tears from draining out of the eye quickly. A tiny puntal plug, about the size of a grain of rice, is painlessly placed in the tear drainage canals. The plugs permit only a small percentage of tears to pass into the punctum, thus building up a layer of tears on the surface of the eye. The plugs dissolve over about 3-6 months.
Permanent Punctal Occlusion
The punctum can also be be narrowed or blocked using surgical techniques or lasers. This procedure can ususally be performed in the office and is painless, as a local anesthetic is administered before the treatment. Although it is impossible to reopen the punctum once it has been closed, the need to do so is rare.
If you are suffering from dry eyes or other eye discomforts, schedule an appointment today. Left untreated dry eye can lead to other more serious conditions including corneal ulcers, infection, and conjunctivitis.
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