Top Treatment Options for Dry Eyes
- Posted on: Sep 1 2013
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Following laser eye surgery e.g.LASIK, the last thing any patient wants to experience is continued discomfort. Such a procedure, however, can leave eyes vulnerable to a dry eye problem, which in turn can cause eye discomfort, irritation, excessive watering of the eyes in the cold and the wind, photophobia (an aversion to bright lights).
Fortunately, dry eyes are treatable. Let’s take a look at the most common treatments for dry eyes, a very common problem.
Top Treatment Options for Dry Eyes
- Artificial Tears. Artificial tears work to lubricate the eyes, soothing irritation and dryness. Although there are currently many artificial tear products available over the counter, some products are better suited to the individual needs of a patient because of the type of dry eye problem they have. Preservative free drops are preferable, particularly when they have to be used more than 4 times per day. There are also night time gels available. Patients should use the drops often enough to keep the symptoms at bay rather than using them in response to symptoms.
- Punctal Plugs. In order to reduce the frequency of use of artificial tears, a small medical device known as a ‘punctal plug’ can be used. An eye expert (ophthalmologist) places these into the tiny holes in the inner aspect of the lower eyelids (the “puncta”). These holes represent the start of the tear drainage pathway. The plugs act to prevent the natural tears from draining away, keeping the tears in contact with the eye. These plugs are reversible should a patient experience secondary overflow tearing. This is currently among the most popular ways to treat a dry eye problem. The procedure is done with the use of numbing eye drops only and is done very quickly.
- Omega 3 Supplements. Recent studies have supported the use of Omega 3 supplements for patients experiencing dry eye problems.
Dry Eye Treatment in Manchester
If you are experiencing problems with dry eyes, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our clinic is located in South Manchester, United Kingdom, not far from the airport and we can be reached at 0161 947 2720. We look forward to meeting you.
Posted in: Dry Eye
