Dry eye is a condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can cause discomfort, itching, burning, redness, and blurred vision. There are several treatment options available for dry eye:
- Artificial tears: These are over-the-counter eye drops that can help to lubricate the eyes and relieve symptoms of dryness.
- Prescription Eye drops: These are drops that contain medications such as cyclosporine (Restasis) and lifitegrast (Xiidra) that can help to increase tear production and improve the quality of the tears.
- Punctal plugs: These are tiny plugs that can be inserted into the tear ducts to slow the drainage of tears and keep the eyes lubricated.
- LipiFlow: This is a thermal pulsation treatment, which helps to unblock the meibomian glands and improve the quality of the tears.
- Ointments: These are thicker lubricants that can be applied to the eyes at bedtime to provide prolonged relief during the night.
- Lifestyle changes: such as avoiding dry, windy, or smoky environments, using a humidifier, and taking regular breaks when working on a computer or reading can also help to alleviate symptoms of dry eye.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery such as punctal cautery, which seals the puncta (the openings of the tear ducts) or laser treatment of the meibomian glands may be considered.
It's important to work with your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your dry eye. It may take a combination of different treatments to alleviate your symptoms, and your treatment plan may need to be adjusted over time as your condition changes.
Source: Vivacare
Last updated : 1/27/2023