Relief for Chronic Dry Eyes

Dry Eye Syndrome occurs when the normal flow of tears over the eyes is interrupted, or the tear film is abnormal and there are insufficient tears to lubricate the eye.  Dry eye syndrome is a chronic condition and can get worse with age.  You can relieve the symptoms, but not cure the original cause.

Artificial Tears

Artificial tear lubricants or in some cases blocking the tear ducts will concentrate the limited tears that are available. Artificial tears are eye drops that can be purchased over the counter to increase the amount of tears in the eye and improve the symptoms of the condition. There are many types available–from eye drops to gel formulations. The gel formulations can cause blurring of the vision but relief from the symptoms may last longer. Preservative-free eye drop formulations are popular because they have fewer additvives and may cause less irritation especially if the eye drops are used regularly.

Anti-inflammatory Eye Drops

Restasis eye drops are an ocular cyclosporine formulation that helps the eye increase tear production. This medication is only available by a prescription from an eye doctor. In more severe cases, some doctors may prescribe a short course of steroid eye drops to treat dry eye.

Punctal Occlusion

An eye doctor can also insert small silicone plugs into the drainage channels in the upper and lower eyelids to prevent the tears that are present in the eye from draining out of the eye. These plugs are temporary and can fall out over time. A minor surgical procedure can also be done in the office to permanently close the tear ducts.

Lacrisert

A small insert called Lacricert that is filled with medication (hydroxypropyl cellulose) can also be inserted into the tear duct. The eye medication is continually released from the insert during the day and improves the tear film of the eye. The insert is replaced daily and is applied by the patient at home. Care must be taken with insertion to prevent eye injury.

Your eye doctor can determine your best course of treatment for your particular case. With these simple and safe options available, you do not have to suffer with chronic dry eyes anymore.

At Laser Locators we carry the top name surgical and diagnostic ophthalmic equipment manufacturers you can trust, like Acon, Nidek, Lumenis and more for preforming all of your precise ophthalmic procedures. Contact us at www.laserlocators.com  or call 1-877-924-2020 and let one of our expert equipment locators help you today.