Dry Eye Treatment
Some people do not produce enough tears or the appropriate quality of tears to keep the eye healthy and comfortable. This is known as dry eye. Generally speaking, tears are produced by two different methods. One method produces tears at a slow, steady rate. And, is responsible for normal eye lubrication. Whereas, the other method produces large quantities of tears. This is in response to eye irritation or emotions. When these methods do not work, there are other dry eye treatment methods.
A healthy eye constantly produces tears that lubricate. Excessive tearing occurs not only when a foreign body or dryness, irritates the eye. But also, when a person cries.
The Usual Symptoms of Dry Eye Include:
- Excessive tearing
- Stinging or burning eyes
- Scratchiness
- Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
- Excessive eye irritation from smoke or wind
- Difficultly wearing contact lenses.
Excessive tearing from “dry eyes” sounds illogical. When the tears responsible for maintenance lubrication do not keep the eye wet enough. Then, the eye becomes irritated. When the eye is irritated. The lacrimal gland produces a large volume of tears. As a result, it will overwhelm the tear drainage system. These excess tears then overflow from your eye. Dry eye is often caused by the normal decrease in tear production as we age. dry eye can occur in both men and women at any age for the most part. Given these points, women are most often affected. This is especially true after menopause.
Treatment Options:
Dry eye is often treated by using eyedrops called artificial tears. As a result, they lubricate the eyes and help maintain moisture. Artificial tears are not only available without a prescription. But also, you can use the artificial tears as often as necessary.
If the oil glands that produce the oily layer of the tear film are clogged. Then, you may benefit from Lipiflow treatments.
Your doctor may recommend medical therapy. In fact, with Restasis or Xiidra to help treat the symptoms of dry eye. Restasis works by increasing the natural production of tears that the eyes make. Xiidra helps to treat the inflammatory part of dry eye. In essence, to help reduce eye irritation. Ask your doctor for more information and if this treatment is right for you.
For those patients with extreme dryness of the eyes, your doctor may recommend temporarily or permanently closing the small ducts that drain tears away. The closure conserves your own tears and makes artificial tears last longer. This closure procedure is done in the office with the use of punctal plugs or cautery.
Specializing in Helping You See!
The doctors at Regional Eye Associates, Inc. welcome you to our website. We dedicate ourselves to enhancing the quality of life for every individual we treat by helping each to see his or her best. We are committed to responding compassionately to our patients’ individual needs and to achieving the highest standards of eye care throughout life.
