Dry Eyes/Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
DRY EYES
Dry eye syndrome is a common disease in which the eye under-produces tears or tears leave the eye too quickly. A normal functioning eye constantly produces tears to form a tear film, which acts as moisturizer and lubricant. For someone with dry eye, the resulting lack of moisture and lubrication can cause a variety of problems.
Dry eye symptoms may include:
A burning, stinging, or scratchy sensation in the eyes.
Eyes may redden and become easily irritated by wind or smoke.
The eyes may produce stringy mucus.
Contact lenses may be difficult or impossible to wear.
Sometimes the eye will actually produce excessive tears, and overflow.*
*Though it sounds contradictory, sometimes the eye will actually produce excessive tears, and overflow. The eye becomes irritated by the lack of lubrication and attempts to cleanse itself with a flood of tears. This is a similar phenomenon to the tearing that occurs when foreign matter is stuck in one’s eye.
Dry eye causes:
Part of the natural aging process.
Deficiency of tear producing by Meibomian glands (MGD).
Because you live in dry or windy climate with low humidity.
as side effect of over-the-counter and prescription medications, such as antihistamines, beta-blockers, sleeping pills, pain relievers, etc.
Insufficient blinking, when staring at computer or cell phone screen.
Can be associated with systemic diseases such as lupus, rosacea, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome.
Long-term contact lens wear.
Incomplete closure of eyelids.
Treatments for dry eye:
LipiFlow: If dry eye is caused by Meibomian Glands Dysfunction, an in-office procedure is recommended. It is evaluated by scanning the glands with LipiScan and by using Meibomian glands evaluator (MGE). Relief is usually noticed with 1-2 weeks after the procedure, but best results are achieved in 8 weeks (you MUST follow doctors after-procedure instructions).
Over-the-counter artificial tears: Mild cases of dry eye syndrome may be treated by applying artificial tear eye drops as little or as often as necessary, providing relief almost instantly.
Insertion of lacrimal (punctal) plugs: Small, not visible, collagen insert, that is placed into the tear duct, preventing existing tears from leaving the eye as quickly. It is a temporary solution, because collagen plugs dissolve in 1, 3 or 6 months.
Prescription medications: Can sometimes increase tear production for those with chronic dry eye. It does this by targeting inflammation in the eye.
For contact lens wearers use of artificial tears made specifically for contacts (says on the package) will help to rewet the contacts during the day. Also, switching to a different contact lens brand might help with dryness.
Controlling one’s environment: Patients should avoid situations in which tears evaporate quickly; for example, by using a humidifier in a dry house, wearing wrap-around glasses in the wind, and not smoking.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of dry eye, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule a consultation.