Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment
Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common problems treated by eye physicians. Over ten million Americans suffer from dry eyes. It is usually caused by a problem with the quality of the tear film that lubricates the ocular surface. While Dry Eye Syndrome can effect men and women of all ages it is particularly common in post menopausal women. Patients who wear contact lenses are another group who may be more susceptible to dry eyes. At the Eye Care Group Dr. Joel Geffin, our cornea and external disease specialist, has extensive experience and expertise in caring for this common and frustrating problem.
What are the symptoms of dry eyes?
Dry eyes can cause a gritty, sandy sensation, burning, stinging and even itching. Some people notice their eyes sticking shut when they wake up. Sometimes a dry eye can actually seem watery because the eye produces poor quality, reflex tears, which do not keep the ocular surface adequately lubricated. Symptoms are often worse during the dry winter months, but may also be exacerbated by air-conditioning.
What can be done for dry eyes?
The first line of treatment is usually artificial tears. There are many excellent brands available over the counter. Picking the "best" artificial tear is often simply a matter of personal preference. If you are using artificial tears more than four times a day, a non-preserved tear should be considered. Ask one of our doctors to make some recommendations.
If artificial tears fail to provide adequate relief then prescription eye drops may be necessary. Recently, cyclosporine A eye drops (Restasis) became available and have been shown to offer some additional benefit for patients suffering from dryness.
For severely dry eyes we have found punctal occlusion to be the safest and most effective treatment. Punctal occlusion is most frequently accomplished by the placement of microscopic plugs in the duct that drains tears from the eye into the nose. By blocking the drainage of tears the surface of the eye becomes consistently moist. This quick painless and reversible minor office procedure often provides total relief for patients in which other forms of therapy have failed. Importantly, this effective procedure is covered by all major health plans.
Dry Eye Syndrome
To learn more about Dry Eye Syndrome please click here to visit Dry-Eye-Syndrome.net.
