Dr. Daniel Newcomer of Newcomer Eye Associates, is a dry eye specialist. For state of the art eye diagnostics and care. Call Us (610) 200-6611.
Dry eye syndrome in its mildest form consists of the vague complaints of burning, watering and fluctuation of vision. It is common to think you need to change eyeglasses when the real solution is to improve your tear quality.
Dry Eye is a condition in which there is an insufficient quantity or quality of tears. Healthy tears are necessary for maintaining the integrity of the ocular surface and for providing comfortable clear vision.
Although supplemental lubrication is the mainstay of treatment for mild and moderate dry eye; any lid disease or hygiene issues must also be treated. Blepharitis and Meibomian gland dysfunction are significant contributors to dry eyes. Red and thickened eyelids along with red eyes point to lid inflammation contributing to the dry eye. The use of topical cyclosporine (restasis) has been shown to enhance the production of the water component of the tear layer, as well as increase goblet cell density which increases the mucous and oil components of the tear film. The use of oral omega-3 fatty acids has also been shown to have beneficial anti-inflammatory properties that aid in the production of tears. Treating a dry eye requires all three components of the tear film be improved.
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Early detection and aggressive treatment of dry eye syndrome may help prevent corneal degeneration and scarring. The frequency of your follow-up care depends on the severity of the signs and symptoms.
Other forms of treatment include the use of plugs that block the puncta (the hole that drains the tears on the lid). Environment-related issues that worsen Dry eye syndrome should be discussed; alternatives may be needed such as humidifiers in the home.
| Call us today at 610-200-6610 or request an appointment online. |
Dry Eye Treatment Recommendations by Severity
Level 1 treatment consists of the following:
- Education and environmental or dietary modifications
- Elimination of offending systemic medications-antihistamines and decongestants
- Preserved artificial tear substitutes, gels, and ointments
- Eyelid therapy - warm compresses and cleansing to release the lubricating oils of the tears
If level 1 treatment is inadequate, level 2 measures are added, including the following:
- Nonpreserved artificial tear substitutes
- Anti-inflammatory agents( topical steroids, restasis)
- Tetracyclines (for meibomitis or rosacea)
- Punctal plugs (after inflammation has been controlled anti-inflammatory agents, is added.
Agents that have been used to treat dry eye include:
- Artificial tear substitutes
- Gels and ointments
- Anti-inflammatory agents -topical cyclosporine, topical corticosteroids
- Topical or systemic tetracyclines
- Systemic immunosuppressants
The most important factor in treating your dry eye is to consistently stick to your regimen and follow up with our office so we can monitor and improve your tear quality. This will lead to better vision and comfort.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned here, you may have Dry Eye. A complete exam by an eye doctor is your best first step to recovery. The experienced eye care professionals at Dr. Michael Brodsky and Associates are available to help and will create a custom treatment plan based on your individual needs.
| Call us today at 610-200-6610 or request an appointment online. |
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Dry eyes result from the chronic lack of lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eye, which can cause minor irritations, an inability to wear contact lenses and an increased risk of corneal inflammation and eye infections.
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Do you suffer from itchy, stinging, swollen or bloodshot eyes? While a number of causes can be to blame, the two most common reasons for eye irritation are dry eye syndrome and eye allergies.
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A thorough eye exam from your Whitehall LensCrafters optometrist, serving Lehigh Valley and Bethlehem, PA, will provide you with a precise diagnosis and effective treatment.
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One of the most common patient complaints during the winter months is dry eyes.
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Red eye and dry eye syndrome are quite easily confused. Both conditions include itchy, red and dry-feeling eyes.
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Winter time can be especially challenging for dry eye sufferers. We are proud to be the premier eye clinic in Whitehall, PA, serving family members. Visit today!