Most Effective Dry Eye Treatment Methods

When your eyes do not produce adequate tears or the tears evaporate too rapidly, you have dry eye. This may result in dryness, burning, a gritty feeling in the eyes, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and tired eyes. 

Dry eye can affect your vision and comfort and increase your risk of eye infections and injuries. Here are potentially effective dry eye treatments to relieve your symptoms and improve your eye health.

Artificial Tears

Artificial tears are eye drops that mimic natural tears and lubricate your eyes. They can help with mild to moderate dry eye symptoms and prevent further eye damage. However, they may not be enough for severe or chronic dry eye cases. Experimenting with various brands or formulations is a good idea until you find the best ones.

Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene

Warm compresses and eyelid hygiene are simple home remedies. They can help with dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). MGD is a condition where the oil glands in your eyelids become blocked or inflamed, affecting the quality of your tears. Warm compresses can help soften the oil and unclog the glands. 

Eyelid hygiene can help remove any debris or bacteria irritating your eyes. Once or twice daily, you can close your eyes and place a warm compress over them for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, softly massage your eyelids. Every day, wash your eyes with a gentle soap or a commercial eyelid cleanser.

Prescription Medications

Another alternative for treating dry eye is using prescription drugs. They are particularly effective if the condition stems from inflammation or another ailment. The following are a few examples of prescription drugs used for dry eyes:

• Anti-inflammatory Drugs: These medicines can increase tear production and lessen eye irritation

• Cholinergic drugs: These can help stimulate tear secretion by activating the nerves that control tear glands

• Autologous serum eye drops: These are eye drops made from your blood. These contain natural growth factors and nutrients that can heal your eyes. These are ideal for severe or refractory dry eye cases

Punctal Plugs

An eye doctor inserts these tiny devices into the tear ducts. The devices block tear drainage from your eyes, helping retain more eye moisture to reduce dry eye symptoms. Usually made of silicone or collagen, they can be temporary or permanent. Most people tolerate them well, but they may cause side effects such as infection, irritation, or excessive tearing.

Thermal Eyelid Procedures

Thermal eyelid procedures are advanced treatments that use heat and pressure to treat MGD and improve tear quality. Examples include LipiFlow® and TearCare®. These procedures involve applying a device that heats and massages the eyelids to clear out the oil glands and remove blockages. An eye doctor usually performs them in an office, taking about 15 minutes per eye. They may provide long-lasting relief for dry eyes caused by MGD.

Conclusion

Dry eye can impair your comfort and eyesight. The origin and severity of your dry eye issue will determine the best treatment option for you. Speaking with an eye specialist who can identify the issue and provide the best treatment recommendation is best.

For more information on dry eye treatment, visit Advanced Vision Family Eye Care at our Bellingham, Washington office. Call (360) 526-0075 to schedule an appointment today.