Dry eye is a chronic condition that affects millions of Americans. Someone with dry eye either does not produce enough tears to keep the eyes properly moisturized, or produces tears that are of poor quality and cannot sufficiently lubricate the eyes.
Those experiencing symptoms of dry eye (e.g., itchy, irritated eyes; sensitivity to light; general discomfort) may wonder whether dry eye can be reversed. Dr. Ernest Kornmehl, who treats cases of dry eye in the Boston area, provides the answer here.
Long-Term Management Strategies for Dry Eye
Dry eye is considered a chronic disease that usually cannot be completely cured. However, dry eye specialists like Dr. Kornmehl have a variety of ways to manage the condition and relieve the uncomfortable symptoms over the long term. The specific therapy he recommends depends on the type and severity of the disease.
Over-the-counter and prescription medications are commonly used to reduce inflammation and lubricate dry, irritated eyes. Sometimes simple lifestyle modifications, like changing medications, taking nutritional supplements or limiting time spent looking at a computer screen, can also help decrease the symptoms of dry eye.
In cases of evaporative dry eye, where the tears lack the oily component that prevents them from prematurely evaporating off the surface of the eye, Dr. Kornmehl may recommend a treatment called the LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System. Treatment with LipiFlow involves administering a combination of gentle heat along with massage to clear obstructed meibomian glands. This stimulates the glands to produce the oily layer that proper quality tears need. As a result, the tears stop evaporating too quickly from the surface of the eyes. LipiFlow is a short procedure that takes less than 15 minutes and produces rapid results.
Another management strategy Dr. Kornmehl can use is to place tiny devices called punctal plugs in the tear ducts to keep the tears from draining too quickly. These tiny plugs may partially or completely close the tear ducts, depending on the specific case.
Learn More about the Treatment and Management of Dry Eye
For more information about how Dr. Kornmehl manages the uncomfortable symptoms of dry eye, schedule an appointment at Kornmehl Laser Eye Associates. Call 1-877-870-2010 or email us today to book your visit.