How is Dry Eye treated?
Dry eye is a condition in which the eyes do not have enough tears, or the tears do not work well enough, to keep the surface of the eye properly lubricated. Good lubrication is essential for comfortable, clear vision, and when it is lacking, the eyes can feel uncomfortable and irritated.
Dry eye is often a long-term condition, and treatment usually aims to relieve symptoms and protect the surface of the eye. Most people are treated with eye drops, and other options are available if drops are not enough. Your doctor will recommend a plan based on the cause and severity of your dry eyes.
Eye Drops and Medications
Eye drops are the main treatment for dry eyes. Your doctor may prescribe one or more of the following.
Artificial Tears (Eye Drops)
What it does: Provide artificial lubrication for the eyes. Specific types may be prescribed for different patients.
How it is used: Use consistently, as directed, even when your eyes feel fine.
Lubricating Ointment
What it does: A thicker lubricant that stays on the eye for longer.
How it is used: Often used at night if you have a chronic condition and your eyes dry out while you sleep.
Steroid Eye Drops
What it does: Help relieve periods of dryness by reducing inflammation.
How it is used: Prescribed for a set period only, and for short-term use. They are generally used in more severe cases.
Cyclosporine
What it does: An anti-inflammatory medicine that helps to protect the surface of the eye and increase tear production.
How it is used: Prescribed by your doctor when needed.
Nutritional Supplements
What it does: Fish oil and omega-3 supplements may be suggested to help relieve the discomfort of dry eyes.
How it is used: The benefit varies from person to person. Ask your doctor before starting any supplement.
Procedures for Dry Eyes
If eye drops and medicines are not enough, your doctor may recommend a procedure.
- Punctal occlusion: Tears drain from the eyes through tiny openings called puncta. Your doctor may close these ducts using a small plug inserted into the lower eyelid, so that tears stay on the eye for longer. A temporary, dissolving plug is often used first, to see whether closing the ducts helps. If a longer-term solution is needed, a non-dissolving plug can be used.
- LipiFlow: This is a medical device that clears blocked glands around the eyelids, using gentle heat and pressure. These glands produce the oil in your tears, which keeps the eyes moist and prevents tears from evaporating, so unblocking them can help to improve the quality of your tears.
Using Your Eye Drops Properly
Eye drops only help if they are used correctly and regularly.
- Use them consistently: Follow the schedule your doctor gives you, even when your eyes feel comfortable.
- Wash your hands first: Clean hands help to prevent infection.
- Avoid touching the tip: Do not let the dropper touch your eye, eyelid or fingers, to keep it clean.
- Wait between different drops: If you use more than one type, leave a few minutes between them, and use thicker ointments last.
- Check with your doctor if you wear contact lenses: Some drops are not suitable for use with lenses in place.
Everyday Habits That Can Help
- Take screen breaks: Look away from your screen regularly, and remember to blink fully. A simple routine is to look at something about six metres away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
- Use a warm compress: Applying a clean, warm compress to the closed eyelids for a few minutes can help loosen the oils in the eyelid glands.
- Avoid direct airflow: Keep fans and air-conditioning vents from blowing directly at your face.
- Protect your eyes outdoors: Wear sunglasses or wraparound glasses on windy or sunny days.
- Stay hydrated and avoid smoke: Drink enough water and avoid smoky environments, which can irritate the eyes.
