At Eye & Vision, we take a multi-pronged approach to the treatment of Dry Eyes, Blepharitis, or related disorders of the surface of the eye. Our treatment procedures address tear quality, production, distribution, drainage and maintenance.
Many eye care professionals are not aware of the optimal dry eye doctor treatment. When it comes to treatment of dry eyes, instillation of tears alone is very often not sufficient.
Our initial therapy might start with an evaluation of your eyes. We also place more emphasis on the inflammatory component of dry eye and might prescribe a topical steroid such as Lotemax that can be combined with Restasis (both are prescription medication). We often use Azasite as therapy for any meibomian gland disfunction.
It is important to explore more variations on therapy. It is important to understand that all artificial tears are NOT equal, nor are all brands of punctal plugs, and that you may need to incorporate additional types of treatments and/or lifestyle modifications.
Other levels of treatment in dry eye treatment is usually all about shifting the focus to the meibomian glands. A course of oral antibiotics such as doxycycline may help. If there is inflammatory meibomian gland dysfunction going on, from conditions such as blepharitis, lid hygiene and warm compress treatment may be very important. Omega 3 supplementation (flax seed and/or fish oil) is a common additional treatment. We also prescribe medications such as Hydrate, a prescription strength Omega oil.
We see each patient frequently in order to establish an effective therapeutic relationship, monitoring progress, and adjusting treatment as needed. There is no cure for dry eyes. However, with comprehensive treatment, most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life.
For proper treatment we evaluate:Tear quality can be improved by lifestyle and nutritional adjustments. Our dry eye doctor provides you the information you need to ensure your success with the appropriate lifestyle and nutritional changes. We take the time to explain how your environment and eating habits effect the health of your eyes. eye moisture
Tear production can be improved by prescription eye drops. Once again, our dry eye doctor works with you to ensure your prescription provides the right solution for your eyes. Blepharitis, or inflammation of the eyelid margins, can be improved with prescribed lid hygiene. We don't just tell you, we show you how.
Tear drainage can be blocked temporarily or long-term by collagen or silicone punctal plugs.
Adapted from :Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Dry Eye Syndrome Scot E. Moss, MA; Ronald Klein, MD; Barbara E. K. Klein, MD Arch Ophthalmol. 2000;118:1264-1268.