What are the treatment options for dry eyes?

There are a number of different treatments available for dry eyes depending on the cause. Some of the treatment options include; Lubricating eye drops – effectively artificial tears that will help manage moisture levels of the eyes offering short term relief. Steroid eye drops – if inflammation is a contributing factor to dry eyes then steroid eye drops may be recommended. These could also be used in conjunction with artificial tears, as they will only address the inflammatory response in the eyes. Lacrisert – this is an insert that is placed underneath the lower eyelid which releases lubricants throughout the day. A lacrisert is typically applied once daily Punctal plugs – a more invasive type of treatment, punctal plugs are placed into one of the tear drainage openings to inhibit drainage so that the tear remains intact with the eye for longer, thus relieving the symptoms of dry eyes. Meibomian gland expression – a significant proportion of dry eye cases is due to the lack of oil being secreted along the margin of the eyelid. During this procedure forceps will be used to express the meibomian glands, clearing any blockages to allow for free flowing release of oils. This can be somewhat uncomfortable, but the long term benefits outweigh the short term discomfort.

Are dry eyes permanent?

Dry eyes is usually a condition that can be managed, but is unlikely to completely resolve permanently. This is of course dependent on the cause of your dry eyes, as temporary dry eyes can be resolved. Chronic dry eye, however, is likely to require long term management.

Best Dry Eye Treatment London | Real Clinic | Facial Aesthetics Battersea

DRY EYE TREATMENT

Common symptoms of dry eye include; wet or watery eyes, gritty sensations in the eyes, burning or itching, mucus discharge and blurred vision – although the latter primarily occurs when focusing or concentrating on something specific, for example; reading.

There are a number of primary causes of dry eye including; ageing, prescription medication, underlying health conditions and hormonal changes. As we age our eyelids produce less oils which naturally lubricate the eye preventing tears from rolling off the eye. As the oil production depletes, the water evaporates at speed leaving the eye dry and irritated. The same can also be said for hormonal changes relating to the menopause; a decrease in androgen levels impacts the meibomian and lacrimal glands and subsequently an increase in the evaporation of tears. Some underlying health conditions such as diabetes can also lead to dry eyes.

It is very important for your ophthalmic surgeon to identify the cause of your symptoms and carry out a full assessment so that they can recommend the appropriate treatment for you. Our Specialists here at REAL will be able to help you to restore optimal function of the eye so you can enjoy increased comfort and say goodbye to dry eyes.

What are the treatment options for dry eyes?

There are a number of different treatments available for dry eyes depending on the cause. Some of the treatment options include;
Lubricating eye drops – effectively artificial tears that will help manage moisture levels of the eyes offering short term relief.
Steroid eye drops – if inflammation is a contributing factor to dry eyes then steroid eye drops may be recommended. These could also be used in conjunction with artificial tears, as they will only address the inflammatory response in the eyes.
Lacrisert – this is an insert that is placed underneath the lower eyelid which releases lubricants throughout the day. A lacrisert is typically applied once daily
Punctal plugs – a more invasive type of treatment, punctal plugs are placed into one of the tear drainage openings to inhibit drainage so that the tear remains intact with the eye for longer, thus relieving the symptoms of dry eyes.
Meibomian gland expression – a significant proportion of dry eye cases is due to the lack of oil being secreted along the margin of the eyelid. During this procedure forceps will be used to express the meibomian glands, clearing any blockages to allow for free flowing release of oils. This can be somewhat uncomfortable, but the long term benefits outweigh the short term discomfort.
Are dry eyes permanent?

Dry eyes is usually a condition that can be managed, but is unlikely to completely resolve permanently. This is of course dependent on the cause of your dry eyes, as temporary dry eyes can be resolved. Chronic dry eye, however, is likely to require long term management.