Dry Eyes

​Dry eye is a disease in which the eye does not produce enough tears or the tear film quality is poor.  Traditionally, it is more common in women and as people age. However, in a world of ubiquitous technology and electronic devices, dry eye can affect anybody.
​
Symptoms of dry eye vary from person to person, and may include grittiness, irritation, burning, scratchiness, feeling like something is in the eye, excessive tearing, mucous, contact lens intolerance and vision fluctuation.

Blepharitis (also known as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction or MGD) produces inflammation of the eyelid margin which often coexists with dry eye disease.

​Autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disease, Sjogren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus, may be associated with dry eyes.

Certain medications such as diuretics, allergy medicines, sleep aids, and anxiety medications may exacerbate dry eyes.

​Abnormal eyelid position, such as ectropion (turning out of eyelid) or entropion (turning in of eyelid) may contribute to dry eye issues also.

​Treatments for dry eye, include over-the-counter artificial tears, omega-3 fatty acids, prescription medications (such as Restasis and Xiidra), eyelid scrubs, warm compresses, and lifestyle modifications.

Punctal plugs are tiny silicone or collagen plugs inserted in the tear ducts to conserve tears.

A comprehensive evaluation of the ocular surface is essential is guiding treatment options.