Effective Dry Eye Treatments
You are not alone if you have ever experienced dry, itchy, or irritated eyes. Millions of people suffer from dry eye syndrome, which disrupts the natural tear film that lubricates and protects your eyes. While the discomfort can be significant, understanding the underlying causes is the first step to finding long-lasting relief.
The Underlying Causes of Dry Eye
This eye problem occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. A variety of factors can contribute to this condition, such as:
- Aging: Tear production decreases with age, especially in older menopausal women.
- Hormonal changes: Including menopause, pregnant women and those on contraceptives are likely to experience dry eyes.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid problems can cause it.
- Environmental Factors: Wind, smoke, or dry air exposure can increase tear evaporation.
- Contact Lenses: Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can contribute to discomfort.
- Screen Time: Prolonged use of screens can reduce blinking rates, leading to dryness.
One of the most significant root causes of dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a common yet often underdiagnosed condition that affects the eyes. It involves the dysfunction of the tiny oil glands in the eyelids. The primary function of these glands is to secrete oils (meibum) that mix with the watery layer of the tear film, preventing rapid evaporation and keeping the eyes lubricated.
When these glands become blocked or their oil production becomes abnormal, it results in inadequate tear film and dry eye symptoms.
At Madeira Optical, we offer a variety of dry eye treatments tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients. Our comprehensive approach includes the following:
Over-the-Counter Solutions
- Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can temporarily relieve mild dry eye symptoms.
- Ointments and Gels: These can be used at night to help keep the eyes moist.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids/Supplements: In fatty fish like salmon and fish oil and flaxseed oil supplements, omega-3 supports eye health and improves dry eye symptoms. They work by enhancing the quality of the tear film, reducing inflammation, and improving overall tear production.
- Warm Compresses: This includes warm eye masks or face cloths gently placed on the eyelids to encourage the healthy production of the oil component of tears.
Prescription Medications
- Anti-Inflammatory Drops: Prescription eye drops can help reduce inflammation and increase tear production.
- Steroid Drops: Under supervision, short-term use of steroid drops can reduce severe inflammation.
Advanced Treatments
- Punctal Plugs: Small devices inserted into the tear ducts block drainage and retain tears on the eye's surface.
- Thermal Pulsation Devices: These devices, like intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, warm and massage the eyelids to unclog blocked oil glands, improving their overall function. This means the quality of your tear film will increase, resulting in more comfortable eyes in the long run.
Schedule Your Dry Eye Consultation Today
Don’t let dry eye discomfort affect your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with our eye doctors at Madeira Optical in Cincinnati, OH. We also serve Kenwood, Montgomery, Milford, Marymont, Deer Park, Silverton, and Madisonville.