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DRY EYE therapy

What is dry eye?

Dry eye, also known as dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for maintaining the health and lubrication of the eyes. They help to keep the eyes moist, provide oxygen and nutrients to the cornea, and protect the eyes from infection.

In people with dry eye, the tear film on the surface of the eyes may be inadequate or unstable, leading to discomfort and various symptoms. Some common symptoms of dry eye include:

  • Dryness: A persistent dry sensation in the eyes.

  • Irritation: Itchy or gritty feeling in the eyes.

  • Redness: Bloodshot appearance of the eyes.

  • Burning or stinging: A sensation of burning or stinging in the eyes.

  • Excessive tearing: Paradoxically, the eyes may produce excessive tears as a response to dryness.

Dry eye can be caused by various factors, including:

  1. Age: Dry eye becomes more common as people get older.

  2. Environmental factors: Dry or windy climates, air conditioning, and exposure to smoke or dry air can contribute to dry eye symptoms.

  3. Hormonal changes: Particularly in women, hormonal fluctuations due to pregnancy, menopause, or the use of oral contraceptives can affect tear production.

  4. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders (e.g., Sjögren's syndrome), diabetes, thyroid problems, and rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the risk of dry eye.

  5. Medications: Some medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and certain blood pressure medications, can reduce tear production.

  6. Eye-related factors: Conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), and structural problems with the eyelids can contribute to dry eye.

Treatment for dry eye aims to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality and quantity of tears. This may involve the use of artificial tears or lubricating eye drops, prescription medications, managing underlying medical conditions, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, procedures to block tear ducts to reduce tear drainage.

How is dry eye treated?

Dry eye can be treated through various methods depending on the severity and underlying cause. Some treatment approaches include:

  1. Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help lubricate the eyes and relieve dryness. These eye drops can be used as needed throughout the day.

  2. Prescription eye drops: In cases of moderate to severe dry eye, it may be appropriate to prescribe medicated eye drops that reduce inflammation, promote tear production, or help retain moisture in the eyes.

  3. Tear conservation: Preserving the existing tears on the ocular surface can be achieved by blocking tear drainage. This can be done with punctal plugs, which are small devices inserted into the tear ducts to slow down tear drainage.

  4. Lifestyle and environmental changes: Making certain adjustments to your environment and habits can help manage dry eye symptoms. These include:

    • Using a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help alleviate dryness, especially in dry climates or heated indoor environments.

    • Avoiding dry or windy conditions: Protecting your eyes from drafts and windy environments can help reduce evaporation of tears.

    • Taking breaks during prolonged visual tasks: If you spend long periods focusing on a screen or reading, take regular breaks to rest your eyes and blink consciously.

    • Wearing protective eyewear: When outdoors or in environments with potential eye irritants, wearing wraparound sunglasses or goggles can shield your eyes from wind, dust, and other irritants.

  5. Meibomian gland treatment: Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common cause of dry eye. Treatments for MGD may include warm compresses, gentle eyelid massages, and in-office procedures like intense pulsed light therapy (IPL) to improve gland function.

 

It's important to consult your eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. They can evaluate the underlying causes of your dry eye and recommend the most suitable treatment options for your specific situation.

Optilight by lumenis

The first and only IPL FDA approved for dry eye management.

OptiLight with Optimal Pulse Technology uses precise, intense broad spectrum light to address the inflammation – one of the key underlining factors in dry eye disease due to MGD. OptiLight was specifically developed to reach the delicate contours of the treated area safely, effectively and gently. OptiLight sets new treatment standards and helps patients to regain health, control and joy.

Backed by numerous clinical studies, OptiLight’s novel optimal pulse technology (OPT) provides a transformative, safe, and efficacious way to improve Dry Eye disease due to MGD. The way we treat your eyes is the way we want you to feel; safe, with control, and precision.

Optimal results in just a few short sessions

  • A course of treatment typically includes 4 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart.

  • Each session usually takes only 10-15 minutes.

  • During the treatment your practitioner will apply a coupling gel on the treatment area and cover your eyes with shields.

  • You may experience a warm sensation as light is applied to the skin, the treatment is gentle with minimum discomfort.

  • OptiLight is often followed by Meibomian Gland expression.

Immediately following treatment, you may experience some redness. This will usually disappear within a few hours. You can return to your daily activities and apply makeup straight away in most cases. You will be advised to stay out of direct sunlight for a few days and to apply sunscreen. Patients usually report an improvement after their 2nd or 3rd treatment. Maintenance treatments are usually recommended every 6-12 months, to ensure the best long term results.

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