Exploring Advanced Treatments for Chronic Dry Eye

Chronic dry eye is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or the quality of the tears is poor. This condition can lead to discomfort, vision problems, and potential damage to the eye surface. At EYECARE for You in Richboro and Newtown, PA, we offer various advanced treatments to alleviate dry eye symptoms and improve your overall health. Continue reading to learn about some of these treatments!

Importance of Proper Eye Care

Proper eye care is essential for managing chronic dry eye. When you visit our optometrists regularly, we can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment to help manage the condition. Not only that, but we can also suggest lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding dry environments and taking breaks from screens, to ease your symptoms.

How Eye Drops and Artificial Tears Can Provide Relief

Eye drops and artificial tears are the first solutions recommended when treating chronic dry eye. These over-the-counter solutions help lubricate the eyes, which provides temporary relief from dryness and irritation. Artificial tears can be used multiple times a day, depending on the severity of the symptoms. However, for some patients, these treatments may not provide sufficient relief, necessitating more advanced interventions.

Advanced Treatments for Chronic Dry Eye

If you’ve tried traditional treatments and they have not been effective, there are several advanced methods available. Some of these methods include:

Prescription Eye Drops

Prescription eye drops, such as cyclosporine and lifitegrast, work by reducing inflammation and increasing tear production. These medications target the underlying causes of dry eye and offer long-lasting relief.

Punctal Plugs

Punctal plugs are tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to block tear drainage. By preventing tears from draining away too quickly, punctal plugs help keep the eyes moist for longer periods. This procedure is minimally invasive and can be performed in an eye care professional’s office.

LipiFlow

LipiFlow is an advanced treatment that uses heat and pressure to unblock the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of the tear film. This treatment improves the quality of tears and significantly reduces symptoms.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

IPL therapy involves the use of intense light pulses to reduce inflammation and improve the function of the meibomian glands. This treatment is particularly effective for patients with meibomian gland dysfunction, which is a common cause of chronic dry eye.

Radiofrequency

Radiofrequency treatment is a nonsurgical, in-office procedure. It’s often used to tighten the skin around the eyes to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, or a droopy or baggy appearance. The technique is now being used to treat dry eyes, as well.  During the procedure, a handheld device sends energy waves into your skin. These waves are high-frequency electrical currents that heat up the inner layer of the skin. The heat in turn stimulates the production of collagen, a protein responsible for your skin’s firmness and elasticity. The heat can also help restore the function of the meibomian glands, which also improves symptoms of dry eye.

Contact EYECARE for You for an Appointment Today

If you are experiencing chronic dry eye, our team at EYECARE for You in Richboro and Newtown, PA, can help. To learn more about our treatments or to schedule an appointment, contact our Richboro office at (215) 485-5384 or our Newtown location at (215) 860-9001.