Patient Information › About Dry Eyes

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More than 50% of individuals surveyed report experiencing symptoms associated with Dry Eye Syndrome (Dry Eye) and related Tear System Dysfunction. Typically Dry Eyes (and sometimes watery eyes) are caused when a person has too little of the good quality lubricating natural tears on the surface of their eyes. When someone has enough of the good quality tears on their eye’s surface, they are more likely to experience optimum ocular health, lubrication, visual clarity and comfort. A poor quality tear film can lead to increased infections of the eye and eyelids, ocular irritation, pain and generally poor vision. By preserving the naturally occurring good quality tears on the surface of the eyes (as with Occlusion Therapy), the body’s natural protective mechanisms are able to lubricate and protect the eye, while possibly improving the quality of your vision.

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome can include: Dry, red, itchy or burning eyes, excess tearing, poor visual acuity, photophobia, glare and pain. (See Symptoms Checklist )

Left untreated, severe Dry Eye symptoms may lead to: Chronic infection, corneal ulceration, scarring, permanent vision loss, or even loss of the eye altogether.

What causes Dry Eye? As people get older, they make less of the good quality of tears that are needed for the eye to be healthy and comfortable. Pollution, the warming of the climate, certain medications, contact lens wear, and a poor quality diet (lack of fish oil and Vitamin E), can all exacerbate the symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome.

Discuss your symptoms with your eye doctor! If you are using lubricating eye drops to temporarily improve your Dry Eye symptoms, you may find that Occlusion Therapy can either improve the effectiveness of the lubricating drops, or may reduce or eliminate the need for them altogether. If lubricating eye drops provide you with temporary symptomatic relief, then Occlusion Therapy with plugs may provide you with long-term symptomatic improvement and relief.

Contact Lacrimedics to receive assistance finding an eye doctor who practices Occlusion Therapy in your local area. (See Find a Physician)