What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry eye disease is a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture in the eye. Our eyes need tears to stay healthy and comfortable. If your eyes do not produce enough tears, it is called dry eye. Dry eye is also when your eyes do not make the right type of tears or tear film.

Dry Eye

Dry eye can cause multiple uncomfortable symptoms, including gritty, scratchy, and burning eyes. Chronic dry eye can even cause blurry vision, light sensitivity, and cornea damage.

For some people, the stinging, burning and redness may seem like little more than a nuisance. But, if left untreated, dry eye syndrome can lead to serious eye problems, including blindness. Dry eyes are inflamed eyes. Inflammation of the front surface of the eye increases the risk of infection and can also lead to scarring. Once scarring occurs, permanent loss of sight can occur.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Here are some of the symptoms of dry eye:

• Burning or stinging sensation: A common symptom that feels like there is sand or grit in the eyes.
• Itching: Persistent itching, especially when reading, using screens, or in dry environments.
• Redness: The eyes may appear red or irritated.
• Blurred vision: Dry eyes can interfere with the tear film’s ability to focus light, leading to blurred vision.
• Sensitivity to light: Eyes may become sensitive to bright lights or wind.
• Eye fatigue: Eyes may feel tired or heavy, especially after prolonged screen time.
• Stringy mucus: Thick, stringy mucus may form in the eyes.
• Discomfort wearing contact lenses: Dry eyes can make it painful or uncomfortable to wear contact lenses.
• Watery eyes: Ironically, some people with dry eyes may experience excessive tearing as the body tries to compensate for the dryness.

Dry Eye Treatments

Artificial tears

Artificial tears (eye drops) add lubrication to the eye’s surface. Generally, preservative-free eye drops are recommended for long-term use, as preservatives can cause eye irritation. However, patients with severe dry eye may need additional treatment to reduce symptoms.

Prescription eye drops

Various prescription eyedrops are available to treat more severe dry eye syndrome. These medicines work by reducing inflammation and enhancing the eyes natural tear production.

Punctal plugs

Punctal plugs are tiny devices (about the size of a grain of rice) that are inserted into the tear ducts (puncta) to block drainage. By preventing tears from draining, it can improve eye moisture and reduce eye discomfort.

There are 2 types of punctal plugs: temporary and semi-permanent.

• Temporary or dissolving plugs are naturally absorbed by the body, breaking down within a few days or months. In some cases, a temporary punctal plug may be recommended to test the method before trying semi-permanent plugs.
• Semi-permanent plugs are typically made of medical-grade plastic and are designed to last for years. However, they can be removed if necessary. Most patients can return to normal activities immediately after the insertion procedure. Some patients may notice a scratchy or irritated feeling in the corner of their eye. However, patients typically find the feeling fades with time.

AMG

Amniotic membranes are used as a graft or a bandage to promote healing, protect the eye’s surface, and reconstruct damaged tissue. They offer natural anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring properties to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

You don’t need to suffer from dry eye. After assessing your eyes and discussing your symptoms, your eye doctors at The Eye Institute of Corpus Christi can develop a personalized treatment plan. Contact us for an appointment.