15055 Los Gatos Blvd Suite 320, Los Gatos, CA 95032. (408) 502-5000
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Laura Phan, M.D.
Dry eye is when there is insufficient tear production or unstable tear film that can lead to irritation, burning, foreign body sensation, eye pain, blurry vision or even reflex tearing. Not uncommon, patients with dry eye also 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. Often time though, we do not know why a patient has dry eye. Regardless of the cause, the modifying factors or treatments are the same. • 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 period of computer use or reading • Avoid wearing your contact lenses more than 8 hours • Use a humidifier • 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 draining of the tears.
