Treatment
Treatment for dry eyes
For the best analysis and treatment of your dry eyes please consult your optometrist or ophthalmologist. Many treatments start with a test to evaluate the actual severity of your dry eye condition. Drops or punctual plugs are often a first method of treatment. Other options include eye health vitamins and supplements to create a healthier eye. There are some prescription medications now available such as Restasis®. RESTASIS® Ophthalmic Emulsion is a prescription eye drop indicated to increase tear production which may be reduced by inflammation on the eye surface in patients with dry eye.
Treatment Options
1. OTC drops
OTC drop for dry eye such as refresh tears are usually the first place dry eye patients start their quest for relief. Although these drops can provide some relief they typically do not solve the problem long-term. There are some excellent drops on the market that can provide some initial relief and are worth a try.
What if the drops don’t work?
2. Punctum Plugs (you will need to see an optometrist)
Doctors at can place tiny collagen or silicone plugs in the drainage canals of your eyelids. These plugs prevent the tears from draining down and out of your eyes. Collagen plugs last about 2 weeks. Generally they are a good first step. If the patient notices improvement for a few days, then the symptoms return, permanent silicone plugs can be inserted. While these plugs are removable if necessary, they do not dissolve on their own and don’t require replacing.
3. Eye Vitamins BioTears (Biosyntrx)
For many patients suffering from dry eye syndrome neither OTC drops or punctum plugs work. Recent success in dry eye relief can be found in dry eye vitamins. The BioTears product by Biosyntrx is very popular and has scientific basis for its ingredients.
4. RESTASIS®
This is a pharmaceutical product that helps increase your eyes’ natural ability to produce tears. If you need more tear production it is likely you are suffering from dry eye syndrome. This product is a new product that doctors are currently prescribing to their patients.
Patients suffering with dry eyes must see a physician to take a more active role in a possible treatment process that can set the on a path for relief. If you or a family member are experiencing dry eye please make sure to consult a doctors directly. It is important to protect your eyes from further irritation.
Websites of Interest