Have you ever experienced irritation, dryness, or a burning sensation in your eyes? You’re not alone. Dry Eye Syndrome is an issue affecting millions of individuals, especially as we get older.  Dry Eye specialists at Pacific Eye Institute have been treating patients in the Inland Empire for over 40 years. Here are some considerations for the diagnosis and treatment of dry eye syndrome.

Diagnosing Dry Eye Syndrome 

Dry eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common condition that occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye exam and specific tests to determine the cause and severity of the condition. 

Happy young couple on bikes

Medical History and Symptom Review 

The first step in diagnosing dry eye is a thorough review of your medical history and symptoms. Your eye doctor will ask about: 

  • Symptoms: Such as dryness, burning, itching, redness, and sensitivity to light. 
  • Medical Conditions: Including autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren’s syndrome. 
  • Medications: Some drugs, like antihistamines and antidepressants, can contribute to dry eye. 
  • Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, smoke, or air conditioning. 

Comprehensive Eye Exam 

A comprehensive eye exam allows the doctor to assess the overall health of your eyes and identify any underlying issues that might contribute to dry eye. 

Specific Diagnostic Tests 

Several tests can help diagnose dry eye and determine its severity: 

  • Schirmer’s Test: Measures tear production by placing a strip of paper under the lower eyelid to see how much moisture is absorbed over a few minutes. 
  • Tear Breakup Time (TBUT): Assesses tear film stability by applying a dye (fluorescein) to the eye and timing how long it takes for dry spots to appear on the cornea. 
  • Osmolarity Test: Measures the concentration of particles in your tears. Higher osmolarity indicates more severe dry eye. 
  • Meibomian Gland Evaluation: Examines the glands in your eyelids that produce the oily part of tears to see if they are functioning properly. 
  • Dye Staining: Special dyes (fluorescein, lissamine green, or rose bengal) are used to highlight damage to the cornea and conjunctiva. 
Older man smiling

Treating Dry Eye Syndrome 

Treatment for dry eye syndrome focuses on relieving symptoms, improving tear quality, and addressing any underlying causes. The approach can vary based on the severity and specific factors contributing to the condition. 

Lifestyle and Environmental Changes

Blinking Exercises: Regular blinking helps spread tears evenly over the surface of your eyes. 

Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air can help reduce tear evaporation. 

Taking Breaks: During prolonged activities like reading or using a computer, take breaks to rest your eyes. 

Protective Eyewear: Sunglasses or goggles can shield your eyes from wind and dry air. 

Over-the-Counter Treatments 

  • Dietary Supplements. Supplements containing Vitamin A, B12 and D each have properties that can increase tear production, alleviate burning and reduce inflammation.  
  • Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief. They come in various formulations, including preservative-free options for sensitive eyes. 
  • Ointments: Thicker than drops, ointments provide longer-lasting relief, especially useful overnight. 

Prescription Medications

  • Anti-inflammatory Drops: Such as cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra), can reduce inflammation and improve tear production. 
  • Steroid Eye Drops: Short-term use of corticosteroids can help manage severe inflammation. 
  • Oral Medications: Tetracyclines, such as doxycycline, can help treat underlying eyelid inflammation and improve meibomian gland function. 

Procedures and Advanced Treatments 

  • Punctal Plugs: Small devices inserted into tear ducts to block drainage and retain tears on the eye surface. 
  • LipiFlow/ TearCare: Thermal pulsation treatments that unclogs and stimulates the meibomian glands to improve oil flow in tears. 
  • Scleral Lenses: Special contact lenses that create a moisture-rich environment over the cornea. 

Diagnosing dry eye syndrome involves a detailed review of symptoms and medical history, along with specific tests to assess tear production and quality. Treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs, ranging from lifestyle changes and over-the-counter products to prescription medications and advanced procedures. By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes, effective management of dry eye syndrome can significantly improve quality of life. 

Pacific Eye Institute is committed to providing personalized care. We understand that each patient’s needs are unique, and we tailor our treatments to ensure the best possible outcomes. One of our experienced ophthalmologists is Nishant G. Soni, M.D, who recently had a webinar for Dry Eye Syndrome.  

Your quality of life shouldn’t be further limited by dry eye syndrome. At Pacific Eye Institute, our mission is to give you the best possible care and up-to-date treatment options so that you can look and feel your best. Call us a call at (800) 345-8979 to schedule your dry eye evaluation. 

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