Dry Eye Syndrome

Because dry eye disease can have a number of causes, a variety of treatment approaches are used.

General measures: Dry eyes can be exacerbated by smoky environments, dust and air conditioning, and by our natural tendency to reduce our blink rate when concentrating. Purposefully blinking, especially during computer use, and resting tired eyes are basic steps that can be taken to minimize discomfort. Using a humidifier, especially in the winter, can also help by adding moisture to the dry indoor air.

Artificial tears For mild to moderate cases, supplemental lubrication is the most important part of treatment. Application of artificial tears up to 4 to 6 times per day can provide temporary relief.

Lubricating ointments Lubricating ointments such as Genteal® Gel and Refresh® PM are generally are used at bedtime in patients with moderate to severe dry eye signs and symptoms. Application requires pulling down the lower eyelid and applying a small amount inside. Depending on the severity of the dry eye condition, it may even need to be applied in the daytime as well.

Omega 3s Oral intake of omega-3 fatty acids either via dietary supplements or the consumption of dark fleshed fish is associated with better control of dry eye symptoms. Dr. Arey often recommends a unique formulation called Hydroeye® for his patients with dry eye syndrome.

Restasis® Topical cyclosporine A is a prescription medication that is FDA approved for the treatment of chronic dry eye syndrome. Restasis® helps to increase tear production by acting as an anti-inflammatory on the ocular surface. The effect of Restasis® on dry eyes does not occur immediately, but an overall relief in dry eye symptoms is most often achieved at 3 to 6 months after the start of treatment.

Xiidra® Xiidra is the newest FDA-approved prescription treatment for chronic dry eye syndrome. Xiidra® blocks the interaction of two key mediators in the inflammatory cascade that underlies much of chronic dry eye syndrome.

Punctal plugs In each eye, there are little openings that drain tears into the tear ducts called puncta. There are methods to partially or completely close the tear ducts. This blocks the flow of tears into the nose, and thus more tears are available to the eyes. Punctal plug insertion is painless and is most often used for patients who have not found dry eye relief with eye drops.

LipiFlow® LipiFlow® is an FDA-approved medical device that applies localized heat and pressure to the eyelids of patients with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), a key contributor to chronic dry eye syndrome. Of the 100 million people worldwide that suffer from dry eye, the majority have evaporative dry eye, which stems from a deficiency in the oily lipid layer of the eye’s tear film. The lipid deficiency is due to blockages in the Meibomian glands located in the eyelids. The lipids serve to protect the water (aqueous) layer of tears so that the tears do not evaporate too quickly. Unlike traditional dry eye treatments (e.g., warm compresses, wetting drops and ointments) that address dry eye symptoms, LipiFlow® treats the root cause, the obstructed Meibomian glands. The goal of unblocking the glands is to allow them to resume their natural production of lipids required for a healthy tear film. LipiFlow® treatments can only be provided by a licensed physician, and Dr. Arey is pleased to be able to offer this exciting treatment to his patients with chronic dry eye syndrome.