At our Dry Eye Center, Dr. Thomas Liner and Dr Richard Liner provide the highest level of expert Dry Eye Services utilizing the most up-to-date and aggressive treatment options available. We have treatment and information stations all throughout the office, including each examination room, in order to provide you with the most advanced information and how specific treatment options may benefit you.
It is estimated that one in five adults suffer from the symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome (see the list of common symptoms below). If these symptoms are familiar to you. WE CAN HELP. We invite you to contact us to schedule your Dry Eye evaluation today.
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry Eye Syndrome is a general term used to describe various disorders of the tear film causing an imbalance in the quality or quantity of tears. The result is a decrease in the production of tears or an excessive evaporation of the “water” in the tears. Inflammation and eye lid disease also play a role. This results in the tear film’s protective barrier being compromised.
What are the Symptoms of Dry Eye?
The most common symptoms of Dry Eye disease include but are not limited to:
- Burning
- Sandy
- Grittiness
- Scratchiness
- Stinging
- Redness
- Soreness
- Itching
- Irritation
- Eye Pain
- Contact Lens Discomfort or Intolerance
- Excessive Tearing
- Tired or Fatigued Eyes
- Gravel sensation
What are the Factors that Influence Dry Eye?
Aging
Dry Eye affects 75% of people over age 65
Women
Hormone changes from pregnancy, oral contraceptives, menstruation, and post-menopause.
Systemic Diseases
Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, Thyroid abnormalities, Lupus, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and more
Medications
Certain medications can decrease the body’s ability to create tears. Some examples include antidepressants, diuretics, decongestants, antihistamines, Beta-blockers, hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives and tranquilizers.
Environmental Conditions
All of the following may exacerbate your Dry Eye symptoms: exposure to air pollution, heat, air conditioning, windy conditions, prolonged reading and/or computer work
Refractive Surgery: LASIK, PRK, LTK
These procedures surgically alter the cornea, which may lead to Dry Eye symptoms for up to several months potentially.
How is Dry Eye Treated?
Initially, high-quality artificial tear lubricating drops will be recommended. These are “over-the-counter” products. If your symptoms are at a minor level or are very intermittent, these drops can be used “as needed”. However, if your symptoms are at a moderate to severe level, (experiencing symptoms weekly to even daily) then using drops 3 to 4 times daily will be advised. Lubricating ointments for nightly bedtime use may also be advised. We only recommend the most advanced lubricating eye drops on the market today. Older products or generics often are not equivalent and will not be as beneficial to you. We will discuss in detail which products will benefit you most during your Dry Eye evaluation.
For moderate to more severe Dry Eye, we employ the following therapeutic options, often in combination. These options WILL make your eyes more comfortable. You do not have to suffer from the irritating symptoms of Dry Eye disease! When successfully treated, it is common to be able to decrease the frequency of lubricating eye drops or stop them altogether.