Are you one of the millions of Americans who experience dry eye? When your eyes lack moisture, they can feel gritty, scratchy, and itchy. It can even make your vision blurry.
You don’t have to live with the uncomfortable effects of dry eye. There are a variety of treatments available that can restore moisture to your eyes and restore your comfort.
Our eye doctors are standing by to discuss your unique needs and provide the ideal treatment plan for you. Keep reading to find out how eye doctors treat dry eye!
Artificial Tear Drops or Ointments
When your eyes are lacking moisture, artificial tear drops and ointments can help to increase lubrication. This is the most common treatment for dry eye.
Artificial tears are available over the counter, or your eye doctor may prescribe them. They may also prescribe an ointment that keeps your eyes lubricated.
In mild cases of dry eye, artificial tear drops or ointments are often enough to provide adequate moisture and make you feel better.
Temporary Punctal Occlusion
Dry eye syndrome can arise for a few different reasons. Sometimes, it’s because tears drain from the eye too quickly.
With a temporary punctal occlusion, the drainage ducts of the eye are closed for a short period of time. Tiny plugs are inserted where tears ordinarily drain. That way, tears remain in the eye for longer.
Plugs may be left in the eye for days or months. However, removal is not needed. Eventually, they will dissolve on their own.
BlephEx
Your eyes get their moisture from tears, which are produced by glands around the eye. A tear contains three layers: oil, water, and mucus.
Each must be present in order for the tear to function correctly. The meibomian glands are responsible for producing the oil layer.
In some cases of dry eye, these glands become blocked. Without these oils, tears can evaporate from the eye too quickly.
BlephEx is a medical device that unclogs blocked glands. This treatment applies heat and slight pressure to the eye area, removing bacteria and other toxins.
Once these glands are back in working order, healthy tear production can resume, allowing you to find relief from dry eye.
Restasis
Have you heard of Restasis? If you suffer from chronic dry eye, this prescription eye drop may be able to help you.
Instead of replacing moisture with artificial tears, it aids in your body’s natural production of tears. It is possible for your tear glands to become inflamed, lowering tear production and causing dry eye.
Restasis reduces inflammation and increases tear production. It takes time for Restasis to work. Most patients begin to see improvement in about six months.
Nutritional Supplements
Some nutritional supplements have been shown to support healthy tear production. Particularly, omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil can alleviate dry eye symptoms.
They decrease inflammation and aid in the production of the oils needed for tears. You can take supplements or integrate more omega-3s and fish oils into your diet.
Salmon, mackerel, tuna, vegetable oils, nuts, and leafy greens are all good sources.
Are you in search of treatment for your dry eye? Schedule an appointment at Rosenthal Eye Surgery and Fifth Avenue EyeCare in Long Island, NY, today to find a treatment that works for you!
