During your eye exam our doctors will evaluate your eyes for Dry Eye Syndrome and will discuss various treatment options that work best for your particular needs. Our treatments range from prescription eye drops, punctal plugs, over-the-counter artificial tears, vitamin based therapy such as recommending Omega 3 Fatty Acids which all have been proven to help with Dry Eye Syndrome.
The Importance of Dry Eye Exams
Dry Eye Syndrome can range from mild irritation to chronic problems which can cause decreased vision and affect your everyday quality of life. The symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome may include, but are not limited to:
- Dry, irritated, or red eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Soreness to your eyes
- Itching
- Excessive tearing
- Inflammation/burning sensation
- Mild crusty eyelids with or without clear mucous discharge
- Gritty sensation to eyes and eyelids
- Blurry vision - constant or intermittent
Eyedrops: A Common and Effective Solution to Mild to Moderate Dry Eyes
Dry Eyes or Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is an ongoing condition that OTC and/or prescription eyedrops may be an effective solution for some but not every person. Over the counter artificial tears, which are lubricating eye drops that attempt to mimic our natural tears, may alleviate some of the symptoms of dry eyes, such as eye irritation and foreign body sensation. We are fortunate to have several prescription eyedrops to help reduce the signs and symptoms of Dry Eye Disease. Restasis, Cequa and Verkazia are similar drops that were developed to specifically treat a type of chronic Dry Eye with decreased tear production due to inflammation. These drops can help the eyes natural tear production with time and consistent use. Most patients can see an increase in tear production after 6 months of use using drops twice a day. Individual results may vary.
Scleral Contact Lenses for Severe Dry Eyes
Scleral contact lenses are an option for severe dry eye conditions. They are rigid gas permeable contact lenses that cover the cornea and a portion of the conjunctiva and they act like a shield to reduce dry eye symptoms.
Come to Karns Vision Center for Customized Care for your Dry Eyes
For more significant cases of dry eyes, our doctors may also prescribe punctal plugs. These are tiny devices that dissolve slowly in the drainage ducts in your eyelids thereby slowing the drainage of tears (your natural tears or artificial tears) away from your eyes. These help to keep your tear film intact and therefore can reduce the frequency of artificial tear use. These fully dissolve over six months and therefore need to be inserted twice a year for continuous comfort.