The Best Cure for Dry Eyes

Dry eyes is a condition characterized by stinging, burning, blurred vision, light sensitivity and increased eye sensitivity. It most typically occurs when the normal rate or quality of tear production diminishes, leading to a disruption of the protective film of moisture that protects the open eye. There are several different causes of dry eyes, and the best cure for the condition varies with the source and severity of the problem.

Diagnosing Potential Causes

• If you experience significant difficulties from dry eyes, see your eye doctor for a proper diagnosis. According to the Mayo Clinic, potential causes for your condition include unusually low output from your tear glands; poor quality in one or more of the components of your tears (water, oil and mucus); improper function of your eyelids; medication reactions and certain environmental factors. Frequently performing tasks that require high visual concentration (reading, driving, doing computer work) can also cause difficulties by lowering your average blink rate.

Artificial Tears

• If your dry eye symptoms are mild or moderate, the best cure for your discomfort may be over-the-counter artificial tears. These products are sold in versions that contain a preservative, as well as in forms that do not contain preservatives. If you choose a product without preservatives, you can use it as many times as you need throughout the day. If you choose a product with preservatives, you will probably only be able to use it up to four times a day. Artificial tears are different than products designed to remove eye redness; make sure to avoid products that treat eye redness, since they can actually worsen your symptoms. If you know beforehand that you are going to engage in activities that irritate your eyes, you can use artificial tears as a preventive measure.

Moisture Retention

• If artificial tears are not enough to cure your condition, your doctor may recommend closing off your tear ducts, which usually allow tears to drain away from the eyes. One method of doing this involves placing small, removable silicone plugs into these ducts to catch either natural or artificial tears. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a procedure called thermal cautery, which uses a heat source to scar and shrink the tear ducts permanently. Alternatively, you may receive special contact lenses called Boston scleral lenses, which sit over the whites of your eyes and help retain eye moisture.

Medications

• Several medications are also available for dry eyes. Cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion (Restasis) works by combating any inflammation in your tear glands that disrupts their function. Hydroxypropyl cellulose ophthalmic inserts (Lacrisert) are placed in the lower eyelid once daily, and gradually release lubricant into your eye. In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe topical corticosteroids, such as cortisone, although their use is limited due to potential risks for cataracts and glaucoma.

Relieving Eyelid Problems

• If your dry eyes are related to improper lid function, the best solution may be surgery to correct structural abnormalities. If eyelid infection is the cause, you may be treated with a course of oral antibiotics, as well as antibiotic drops or ointment.