preloader
DOCTOR REFERRAL

Dry Eye Treatment

About Dry Eye Treatment

Are your eyes trying to tell you something? If you are experiencing discomfort in your eyes, it could be due to dry eye disease, a condition that can get worse over time. The signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (also called dry eye syndrome or chronic dry eye) vary from person to person, but some of the common symptoms include:

  • Pain or stinging
  • Occasional blurry vision
  • Excessive tearing/watery eyes
  • Light sensitivity
  • A gritty sensation
  • Feeling of something in the eye
  • Itchy eyes
  • Redness

Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can be caused by an imbalance in the tear-flow system of the eye or by the drying out of the tear film. This can be due to dry air created by air conditioning, ceiling fans, heat, and other environmental issues. Other conditions that may cause dry eyes are: 

  • Natural aging/menopause
  • Medication side effects (antihistamines/birth control)
  • Diseased affecting the ability to make tears (Sjogren's, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus)
  • Structural problems with the eyelids that don't allow them to close properly

Other risk factors and triggers of dry eye can include: 

  • Spending too much time on your computer or phone
  • Being in dry or cold climates
  • Wearing contact lenses
  • Having LASIK or cataract surgery

Treatment for Dry Eye

Though dry eyes cannot be cured, there are a variety of methods to control it. You should discuss the options with an ophthalmologist who can customize your treatment plan. The key is to find out exactly what type of Dry Eye Syndrome you have, why you have it, and outline a treatment strategy specific for those issues. Treatment options for dry eyes include:
The use of artificial teardrops (AT’s) is the primary treatment for dry eye. Most are available over the counter. No one drop works for everyone, so you might have to experiment to find the drop that works for you. If you have chronic dry eye, it is important to use the drops even when your eyes feel fine, to keep them lubricated. If your eyes dry out while you sleep, you can use a thicker lubricant gel prior to bedtime.
Xiidra™ (lifitegrast ophthalmic solution) 5% is a prescription eye drop used to treat the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease.
Sometimes it is necessary to close the ducts that drain tears out of the eye. This is done via a painless procedure where a plug is inserted into the tear drain of the lower eyelid. These plugs will hold tears around the eyes as long as they are in place. They can be easily removed if desired. In rare occurrences, the plugs may come out spontaneously or migrate down the tear drain. Many patients find that the plugs improve comfort and reduce the need for artificial tears.
The Eye Center is proud to offer the new formulation of Lotemax®, the Gel Drop. This drop delivers all the treatment power of a traditional Lotemax in an improved formulation for efficacy and tolerance. If you have those persistent red, irritated eyes that seem immune to therapy, come visit us to see if the Lotemax Gel Drop is right for you.
Allergan recently launched Refresh Optive Advanced, a new over-the-counter artificial tear option for patients suffering from dry-eye symptoms. Refresh Optive Advanced is a lipid-enhanced tear with the low blur and comfort of an aqueous tear, Allergan says. It features a comprehensive, triple-action formulation that works on all three layers of the tear film to reduce tear evaporation, hydrate and lubricate for dry eye symptom relief. For information, visit www.refreshbrand.com.
In 2002, the FDA approved the prescription eye drop Restasis for the treatment of chronic dry eye. It is currently the only prescription eye drop that helps increase tear production and tear quality.
Maintaining adequate water intake is critical. Fish and Flaxseed Oils will improve the oily layer of the natural tears and allow them to function for a longer period of time. Talk with your doctor before beginning any new vitamins.
Other medications, including topical steroids, may also be beneficial in some cases to relieve any inflammation. Lacrisert is a small insert that when placed behind the lower eyelid, slowly dissolves and lubricates the eye throughout the day.
If needed, the ducts that drain tears into the nose can be permanently closed to allow more tears to remain around the eye. Structural eyelid defects can often be repaired.

Do you suffer from dry eyes?

At The Eye Center, we understand the impact that dry eyes can have on your daily life, and our dedicated team is here to provide personalized solutions for lasting relief. Don’t let the discomfort persist—schedule an appointment with our doctors today. From comprehensive evaluations to advanced treatments, we are committed to addressing the root cause of your dry eye symptoms and improving your overall eye health. Schedule your appointment now and take the first step towards clear, more comfortable vision

Get In Touch With Us
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

803.256.0641
Contact Us