Your Options For Treating Dry Eyes
Dry eyes can be caused by a variety of both environmental and genetic factors. If you are suffering from dry eyes, then you can work with an ophthalmologist clinic and seek treatment. Here are just three options for treating dry eyes.
Artificial Tears
One of the most common treatments for eyes that don't produce enough tears (or those where the tears evaporate too quickly) is artificial tears. This treatment is a type of eye drop meant to mimic the tears that your body naturally produces. Artificial tears can be bought over the counter, although there are brands that you can get with a prescription as well as creams and ointments meant to help your dry eyes. This treatment option is best for those that do not seem to have any underlying or environmental conditions that could cause their dry eyes, such as those with naturally dry eyes.
Treating Underlying Conditions
Another option for dry eye treatment is treating the underlying conditions that could have led to your dry eyes or adjusting your environment as needed. For example, diabetes, lupus, and other autoimmune diseases can cause dry eyes as the body incorrectly attempts to attack the tear duct cells or other parts of your eye. By treating these conditions so that they harm your body less, you can reduce your dry eye symptoms. Additionally, you can make environmental changes such as reducing your screen time, avoiding dry air (including excessive air conditioning), and drinking enough water.
Tear Duct Plugs
One less common although helpful option for those seeking dry eye treatment is putting tear duct plugs in your tear ducts so that your tears have a harder time escaping your eyes, keeping them lubricated. Tear duct or punctal plugs are incredibly small, difficult to see with the naked eye, and installed with a surgery. They can help if other treatments aren't working for you or aren't an option. There are temporary plugs that dissolve in your body in a few weeks or months and more permanent silicone and "intracanalicular" ones that can last for years. Temporary plugs may be installed first so that your doctor can test your body's reaction to the plugs before more permanent options.
If you suffer from dry eyes and are seeking treatment with an ophthalmologist, then you have many options. You can find artificial tears, treat the underlying conditions that lead to dry eyes, change your environment to lessen your symptoms, or ask for tear duct plugs. Find an ophthalmology clinic near you today for dry eye treatments.
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