Dry eye syndrome is a remarkably common disorder that affects a patient’s ability to produce tears to lubricate their eyes. When it comes to treating Dry Eye Syndrome Oahu, eye doctors can offer a good deal of help. Read on to find out about a few common treatment methods for this common disorder.
Over the Counter Eye Drops
Those who only suffer from occasional or mild symptoms may get enough relief from over-the-counter eye drops, also referred to as artificial tears. However, those who suffer from persistent or severe dry eye syndrome should seek the help of a specialist. There are often underlying issues to blame for severe dry eye syndrome, so it’s important that patients see their eye doctors for an evaluation and diagnosis.
Prescription Medications
There are several kinds of medications used in treating Dry Eye Syndrome Oahu patients may want to consider. These include medications designed to reduce eyelid inflammation, eye drops designed to control cornea inflammation, tear-stimulating medications, and autologous blood serum drops created using a patient’s own blood cells. Some of these medications are administered as eye drops, while others are taken orally.
Eye Inserts
Moderate to severe dry eye symptoms can be treated using eye inserts, which are placed between a patient’s lower eyelid and his or her eyeball. These then release a lubricating substance slowly into the eye as they dissolve.
Unblocking Oil Glands
If blocked oil glands are to blame for chronic Dry Eye Syndrome in Oahu, patients may need to have a procedure performed to unblock them. This simple treatment delivers a warm massage to the patient’s lower eyelid. The entire procedure can be completed within just 15 minutes in a doctor’s office.
Light Therapy
Pulsed-light therapy has been proven to improve severe dry eye syndrome. This therapy must be administered monthly along with eyelid massages for maximum effect.
Closing Tear Ducts
If a patient’s tears are draining too quickly from their eyes, they may need to have their tear ducts partially closed. This can be accomplished using removable silicone plugs or a more permanent solution referred to as thermal cautery. Visit Hawaii Vision Clinic in Oahu to learn more about these and other treatment options today to get started.
