How is Dry Eye Syndrome Treated?

How is Dry Eye Syndrome Treated?

Dry Eye Syndrome is a common and often uncomfortable condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears you do produce evaporate too quickly. This leads to irritation, redness, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. But the good news is that modern optometry offers a range of effective treatments for dry eye, many of which we provide here at Seen Modern Eye Care & Eyewear. Let’s explore some of the most common and innovative treatments for managing this condition.

Artificial Tears and Lubricating Eye Drops

One of the most frequently recommended treatments for dry eye is the use of over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops. These solutions help replenish moisture on the eye's surface and offer temporary relief from dryness and irritation. For those with mild cases of dry eye, this simple treatment can be sufficient to manage symptoms.

Prescription Eye Drops

For individuals with more persistent dry eye symptoms, prescription eye drops may be recommended. These drops help reduce inflammation in the eyes and increase tear production over time. Unlike artificial tears, which offer immediate but short-term relief, prescription drops address the underlying inflammation contributing to chronic dry eye.

Punctal Plugs

Punctal plugs are tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tears from draining too quickly from the surface of the eye. By slowing tear drainage, punctal plugs help keep the eyes moist for longer periods. This treatment is typically recommended for those whose dry eye is caused by insufficient tear retention rather than a lack of tear production.

Lid Hygiene and Warm Compresses

Sometimes, dry eye is caused by a condition known as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), where the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become clogged. To treat this, maintaining good eyelid hygiene is crucial. Regularly cleaning the eyelids with specially formulated wipes and applying warm compresses can help unblock the glands and improve the quality of tears.

Nutritional Supplements

Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to improve tear quality and reduce inflammation in individuals with dry eye. Adding these supplements to your diet, either through foods like fish or in capsule form, can be an effective adjunct to other treatments.

Scleral Lenses

For individuals with severe dry eye that doesn’t respond well to other treatments, scleral lenses may be recommended. These specialty contact lenses create a liquid-filled reservoir over the eye, keeping it constantly hydrated. Scleral lenses are custom-fitted, making them a comfortable and highly effective option for managing chronic dry eye.

Environmental and Lifestyle Adjustments

In addition to clinical treatments, making certain lifestyle adjustments can help manage dry eye symptoms. Using a humidifier in dry environments, taking frequent breaks from digital screens, and wearing wraparound sunglasses to protect the eyes from wind and sun can all reduce the occurrence of dry eye flare-ups.

Customized Dry Eye Treatment at Seen Modern Eye Care & Eyewear

At Seen Modern Eye Care & Eyewear, we understand that dry eye affects each patient differently. That’s why we offer a comprehensive dry eye assessment to identify the root cause of your condition and tailor a personalized treatment plan.

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation with Seen Modern Eye Care & Eyewear for a customized treatment plan. Visit our office in Ridgefield, Washington, or call (360) 887-7336 to book an appointment today.