WHAT IS DRY EYE DISEASE?
The phrase “dry eye” is such a common term that we often forget it is a chronic condition that must be treated and continually managed. Dry Eye Disease (DED) is defined as a multifactorial disease affecting the front surface of the eye in which tear film instability, inflammation, and chronic damage all play roles. The tear film is composed of 3 layers. The outermost layer is the oil or lipid layer which is produced by the Meibomian glands that line the eyelids. This layer helps to stabilize the tear film and reduce evaporation of the tears. The middle layer, or aqueous layer, is the watery component of the tear film which helps to wash away debris and nourish the ocular surface. The mucin layer is the innermost layer, and its role is to maintain the hydration of the ocular surface and to provide lubrication.
There are many factors that can cause DED such as contact lens wear, systemic anti-inflammatory syndromes, diabetes, hormonal changes, age, medications, or environmental triggers.
Most often DED is caused by a combination of health and lifestyle factors. At Myoptic, we use advanced techniques and technology to assess each individual structure and pinpoint the specific causes of your dryness. We also evaluate systemic health, medication history, and environmental factors in order to provide a tailored treatment plan. We hope to provide information and innovative solutions to help manage the chronic symptoms of DED.
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Dry Eye Treatment
Dry eye treatment can now be targeted to address the underlying cause of the problem. With the OCULUS Keratograph® 5M thousands of measuring points are used to measure the whole surface of the cornea and evaluate the quantity of the tear film. The high-resolution color camera is equipped with intelligent software to analyze the collected data and document the findings. It can also compare the results and show the success of the dry eye treatment.
iLux®
iLux® treats Meibomian Gland Dysfunction by the application of light-based heat and compression under direct visualization.
LipiFlow
LipiFlow is a treatment device specifically designed for effectively removing blockages from the meibmomian glands, allowing them to properly function and produce the oils that make up the top protective lipid layer of the tear film.
Prokera®
Therapeutic device placed on the cornea short term to repair and heal moderate to severely damaged corneas.
Artificial Tears
Non-preserved artificial tears can be used to supplement natural tears in mild cases. However, dry eye cannot be treated with artificial tears alone.
Reduce Inflammation:
Ointments, steroids, eyelid cleansers, warm compresses, and lid massage.
Tear Quality
Increasing tear quality production:
Omegas and fish oil supplements can help boost the lipid portion of the tear film which can reduce evaporation. Or prescription drops such as Restasis® or Xiidra® can help increase tear production and decrease inflammation, respectively.
BlephEx®
In office treatment reducing bacteria that builds up on the lid margin and lashes. Decreasing inflammation and keeping the lids clean can greatly decrease dry eye symptoms.
