You could be suffering from Dry Eye Disease. 8 in 10 Australians will suffer from dry eye symptoms, according to the latest Optometry Vision Index Report. Dry eye disease can come in all shapes and forms, some patients describe it as a “gritty” or “burning” sensation, like they’ve got something in their eye or even blurred vision. And sometimes, there are no symptoms at all!
Dry eye disease can be classified into two main categories. Aqueous deficient, which is a lack of tear production, and evaporative deficient (most common) which is related to the quality of tears produced and its ability to form a protective coat across the eye. In both cases, chronic inflammation plays a key role, and different therapies are aimed at targeting various points in the inflammatory cycle.
Many factors can affect the likelihood of dry eye disease such as, gender (females are more likely to suffer), medications (some common medications can contribute or exacerbate the condition), environmental factors (such as a dry climate that we have in Perth), systemic condition (such as thyroid disease or rosacea), digital devices (using our phones a lot can reduce blinking), and eye surgery (for example, cataract surgery).
So, how do we treat it?
This would depend on the type of dry eye that you are experiencing. First, most common treatment would be eye drops which would be specifically tailored to the type of dry eye disease you have. Some eye drops can even sting initially, which can put most people off and so they stop using them. This is important to note because while your eye is dry, it is very sensitive, and the eye has to go through a process of desensitisation, so consistency with eyedrops is key. Secondly, warm compresses which can be applied with a heat mask on top of the eyelids can help improve the quality of the oils in your tears to help “coat” the eye and stabilize the tear film.
What if you’ve already tried this and are still suffering? For Eyes Optometrist has the advanced Lumenis M22 IPL system for the treatment of evaporative deficient dry eye disease. The machine uses Intense Pulsed Light to treat the underlying cause of inflammation in dry eye disease and was first FDA approved in 2021! There are several clinical studies that have been performed indicating that IPL can be successful in the treatment of evaporative dry eye disease.
Call For Eyes Optometrist today, to inquire about our various treatments that can be tailored to suit your dry eye disease. Make the health of your eyes a priority!
For Eyes
Optometrist
158 High Street, Fremantle
93353433
www.foreyes.com.au
by SINEAD DENNY
Optometrist
BScOptom, Member of the Australasian College of Behavioural Optometrists, Ophthalmic Medicines Prescriber, Board Member Optometry WA,
Clinical Skills Supervisor UWA Doctor of Optometry