Dry Eye

More than 12 million suffer from dry eye syndrome. The most common symptoms are a persistent, dryness, scratching and burning in the eyes. Those most susceptible to the disease are those over 40 and females past menopause. As a result of insufficient lubrication, the disease can result in red, dry, irritated eyes that in addition to being uncomfortable, can lead to damaged tissue and impaired vision.

Understanding Dry Eye

Your eyes produce two kinds of tears, one that lubricates them, another that is a response to irritation. Dry Eye occurs when the tear ducts don’t produce enough tears or because there is a chemical imbalance in the tears themselves. This can be caused by aging, injury, certain medications, as well as medical or environmental conditions.

Dry eye can be aggravated by air conditioning and heating systems that dry out your eyes. It’s is also a common complaint among smokers, people who wear contact lenses, and those that work in front of a computer screen for long periods of time.

Treating Dry Eye

Dry eye is not curable, but it can be controlled before serious harm is done. Blinking exercises, increasing humidity at home and work and using artificial tears or moisturizing ointments have all been shown to be effective. Bowden Eye Associates has found that RESTASIS® Ophthalmic Emulsion, the only prescription eye drop available for treatment caused by low tear production, is very effective. Two drops a day in each affected eye – one in the morning and one at night can offer relief.

If these non-surgical treatments fail, small plugs can be inserted into the opening of your tear ducts to block drainage and increase your comfort level. The procedure takes only a few seconds, is absolutely painless, and is done in the office.