Dry Eyes

Dry eyes occur when there is insufficient tear production or an unstable tear film that can lead to irritation, burning, foreign body sensation, eye pain, blurry vision, or even reflex tearing. Patients with dry eye also commonly experience straining, soreness, or tiredness of the eye, especially after prolonged reading or computer work.

Dry eye is very common. There are many factors that may contribute to the development of dry eye, but the exact cause can be hard to identify. Regardless of the cause, the modifying factors or treatments are the same. Dry eye is strongly associated with a condition called Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, wherein the oil glands in the eyelids do not produce enough oil, produce poor quality oil, or fail to release oil onto the eyes. This oil is the outermost layer of the tear film, preventing the tear from evaporating. 

Ways To Treat Dry Eye

• Avoid over-the-counter or prescription medications that can contribute to dry eye, such as anti-histamine
• Avoid drafts from heating or air conditioning vents
• Take frequent breaks during long periods of computer use or reading
• Avoid wearing your contact lenses for more than 8 hours
• Use a humidifier
• Use a warm compress
• Use eye lubricants frequently, at least four times daily
• Use Restasis or Cequa and/or Xiidra (prescription eye drops)
• Take Omega-3 and Omega-6

In severe, refractory cases, the opening to the tear duct is closed with a punctal plug or surgically to prevent tears from draining.