Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition characterized by a lack of sufficient moisture and lubrication on the surface of the eye. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and other symptoms. The condition may be caused by various factors, including insufficient tear production, poor tear quality, or excessive evaporation of tears. Common symptoms of dry eye syndrome include dryness, redness, a gritty sensation, and blurred vision. It is advisable to consult with an eye care professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management based on the specific underlying causes.
Read moreDo the math.
Dry eye syndrome is becoming increasingly prevalent, yet it is often misunderstood. Early identification of this common condition is crucial for addressing lifestyle disturbances effectively.
21%
Based on a survey of Ontario patients, more than 21% of Canadians age 18 years or older experience dry eye syndrome with the highest prevalence among those age 55-64 years.
Cited Survey52%
Researchers analyzed 535 adults with symptomatic moderate-to-sever dry eye disease where 52% employed experienced an average of 24.5% productivity decrease.
Cited Study3B
A survey of 2171 respondents with dry eye disease indicated the average annual cost of managing a patient with dry eye is $783 from the payers’ perspective. “The overall burden to the US healthcare system exceeded $3.8 billion.”
Cited StudyMild Symptoms Treatment Options
For mild dry eye symptoms there are a variety of options available to you. The goal for all these options is to improve the quality of tears and protect the surface of your eye.
Humidify Your Environment
Using an humidifier to increase the moisture in the air is a convenient way to alleviate some of your symptoms.
Avoid Airflow Directly into Your Eyes
Avoiding direct airflow into your eyes while in the car or at home is another way to prevent your eyes drying out too quickly and helping with dry eye symptoms.
Take Breaks from Screens
When reading or working on the computer, use the 20-20-20 rule to reduce eye strain. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Use Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter artificial tears are use to provide lubrication to the eyes to provide relief from dryness. Depending on severity of the condition, these drops are used 1-4 times a day to help keep the eyes moist.
Warm Compresses
Applying warm compresses to your closed eyes can be a method to stimulate Meibomian gland function, improving the quality of the tears. Combined with eyelid scrubs, these two methods performed twice a day can help provide a thicker and more stable tear film.
Medication
Depending on the severity of dryness, anti-inflammatory medications, antibiotics, and prescription lubricants can be prescribed to help heal the surface of the eye.
Still Experiencing Discomfort
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult with an eye care professional for a thorough examination and personalized recommendations. They can provide additional treatments or suggest prescription medications based on the severity of your dry eye syndrome.
How We Treat Dry Eye Symdrome at Wink
If you experience more severe dry eye disease and are looking for alternative therapies for specific cases, particularly those associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and RF (Radiofrequency) are treatments that can provide longer-lasting relief.
Intense Pulsed Light
IPL treatment involves using flashes of broad-spectrum light to target abnormal blood vessels, reduce inflammation in the eyelids, and improve the function of meibomian glands by promoting better oil flow.
Radiofrequency
RF treatment employs radiofrequency energy to heat the tissue, aiming to open blocked meibomian glands, enhance the quality of the meibum (the oily substance produced by the glands), and facilitate the liquefaction and release of hardened oils, enabling them to flow more freely.
Lifestyle
New lifestyle habits can improve the overall health of your eyes and reduce discomfort.
Watch the video
Radio Frequency treatment is used to address the symptoms of dry eye due to Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Any questions?
Navigating dry eye symptoms can be perplexing, as they vary significantly from person to person. Allow our dedicated team to guide you in reclaiming the quality of life you once enjoyed – free from the discomfort and inconvenience associated with dry eyes.
