Dry eye syndrome is one of the most under-diagnosed eye problems and can lead to serious problems, including scarring and other vision-threatening conditions, if left untreated. The eye depends on the flow of tears to provide constant moisture and lubrication to maintain vision and comfort.

Tears are a combination of water, for moisture; oils, for lubrication; mucus, for even spreading; and antibodies and special proteins, for resistance to infection. These components are secreted by special glands located around the eye. When there is an imbalance in this tear system, a person may experience dry eyes.

In addition to lubricating the eye, tears are also produced as a reflex response to outside stimulus such as an injury or emotion. This is the watery eye symptom so common with the syndrome. However, reflex tears do little to soothe a dry eye.

Other common symptoms include:

• dryness
• redness
• itching
• blurred vision
• eyestrain
• feeling of something foreign in the eye

Causes and Contributing Factors

• aging
• hot, dry or windy conditions
• high altitudes
• air-conditioning
• cigarette smoke
• computer use
• contact lenses
• certain medications
• thyroid conditions
• menopause
• vitamin A deficiency
• diseases such as diabetes, rosacea, rheumatoid arthritis, glaucoma and Sjogren’s

Treatment

The Eye Clinic offers specialized diagnostic and treatment services for dry eye syndrome.

Artificial Tears
Some of these products are watery and alleviate the symptoms temporarily; others are thicker
and adhere to the eye longer. Preservative-free tears are recommended because they are the
most soothing and have fewer additives that could potentially irritate. Avoid products that
whiten the eyes – they don’t have adequate lubricating qualities and often make the problem
worse.

Prescription Medications
These help the eyes produce more tears by reducing inflammation, which is often a cause of dry
eye.

Punctal Plugs
These special inserts close the opening of the tear drain in the eyelid to trap tears on the eye,
keeping it moist. This may be done on a temporary or permanent basis.

Surgery
For severe cases that do not respond well to other treatment options, the ducts that drain tears
into the nose can be permanently closed with a minor outpatient surgical procedure to allow
more tears to remain around the eye.

Specific Treatment Products Available at The Eye Clinic for Dry Eye Syndrome:

Restasis
Prescription eye drops therapy for patients with dry eye disease whose tear production is
suppressed due to ocular inflammation. Restasis drops help the eyes produce more tears by reducing
inflammation. Unlike artificial tears, Restasis is the first drug proven to effectively treat a cause of dry
eye disease rather than only temporarily alleviate symptoms.

Oasis Tears
Glycerin-based lubricant eye drops that coat, lubricate and moisten delicate ocular tissue for
long lasting relief of dry eye symptoms.

TheraTears
A patented balance of nutrients that matches natural tears to soothe and comfort, and to
protect against future problems. TheraTears are available in different formulas to meet every need,
including single dose vials, bottles, overnight gel and a nutrition supplement.

Tranquil Eyes
Soft padded eyecups, fashioned as comfortable goggles, gently enclose the eyes to prevent
evaporation of both natural and artificial tears, increase eye humidity and promote overall eye
health. The removable inserts can be immersed in warm water for a restorative hydrating treatment.
To reduce puffiness, the inserts can be dampened with cold water or chill in the freezer. These goggles
help prevent evaporation of natural tears and provide the benefits of increased humidity in the eye
area—leaving eyes feeling refreshed.

Onyix
A soft, flexible shield made from silicone developed to shelter the eyes from environmental
elements that contribute to dryness. Onyix is lightweight, comfortable and seals against the skin. It is
highly recommended for sleep and air travel.

For more information about dry eye syndrome, or to schedule an evaluation, call The Eye Clinic at (337) 478-3810.