What is Dry Eyes?
Dry eye diseases has transformed from being a simple nuisance to severely impacting productivity at work and every day life. The symptoms of dry eyes can commonly include burning, stinging, itching and light sensitivity. However, watery eyes, pain and fluctuating vision are also signs of severe dryness. The doctors at All EyeCare Optometry work systematically and thoroughly to assess all potential causes of a patient's dry eye symptoms including an evaluation of the eye anatomy, medication, systemic health, diet and environment. Taking a comprehensive and holistic approach, our goal is to restore your normal tear production through home therapies and in some cases in office treatment options.
Tear AnatomyThe tears are complex structures made of oils, water, proteins and mucous. Having the right balance ensures a healthy ocular surface. Eye drops cannot simulate your natural tear film and may provide temporary relief, but not a long term solution.
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Tear ProductionOne of the most important layers of the tears is the oil or lipid layer. These come from tiny structures along the eyelids. If there is damage or blockage this can lead to dryness. Testing helps us identify these causes.
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The BioFilmVery similar to plaque on your teeth, you can develop a plaque along the base of the eyelashes that can be a repository for bacteria and can lead to damage of your tear glands. Treatment may be home hygiene with specific lid cleansers. When home therapy fails, in office therapy may be necessary to break up the plaque. Symptoms are irritation, dryness and/or redness of the eyelids.
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Meibomian Gland DysfunctionMeibomian Glan Dysfunciton (MGD) accounts for 80% of dry eye cases. This occurs due to poor quality or quantity of oils produced by the eyelids and secreted into the tear film. Sometimes hot compress therapies done at home can provide immediate relief, but other times, the blockages may be too severe requiring in office treatments and cleanings.
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Treatments
Identifying the root cause of your dry eyes and setting up a unique treatment for your case will provide the best outcomes. Treatments may be as simple as home therapies and nutritional supplementation, to more advanced treatments such as in office cleanings, thermal treatments, medications or Intense Pulse Light Therapy. Once you are assessed, the proper treatment protocol will be recommended for your case.
