Dry Eye Treatment in India
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye is a condition characterized by insufficient tears that play a crucial role in nourishing and lubricating the eye. Tears serve the purpose of ensuring clear vision and maintaining the health of the front eye surface. Individuals with this condition often either lack enough tears or have poor-quality tears. Dry eye is commonly observed as a chronic issue, especially in older individuals.
Causes of Dry Eyes
Medical Conditions : Individuals experiencing thyroid issues, arthritis, or diabetes are at a higher risk of manifesting dry eye symptoms. Dry eye condition may also arise from inflammation on the eye surfaces, eyelids turning inward or outward, and inflammation of the eyelids.
Gender : Women are more prone to developing dry eyes, with factors such as menopause, hormonal changes during pregnancy, and the use of oral contraceptives contributing to the condition.
Medications : Certain medications, including decongestants, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and antihistamines, can reduce tear production in the eyes, leading to the development of dry eyes.
Age : The natural aging process is a significant factor in the occurrence of dry eyes. Individuals in the age range of 60-65, especially the elderly, may commonly exhibit symptoms of dry eyes.
Environmental Conditions : Dry climates, dry winds, and exposure to smoke in the environment can contribute to the development of dry eyes by increasing tear evaporation. Additionally, the prolonged inability to blink regularly while staring at a computer screen is another condition associated with dry eyes.
Additional Factors : Over and long-term use of contact lenses can also attribute to the condition of dry eyes. LASIK is one of the refractive eye surgeries that can lessen dry eyes and tear production.
Dry Eyes Symptoms
Diagnosis of Dry Eyes
To diagnose dry eye conditions, a comprehensive eye examination is conducted. The tests aim to assess both the quality and quantity of tears produced by the eyes, including :
Treatments for Dry Eyes Condition
Various approaches can be employed to treat this chronic condition, including:
Conserving the Tears : The strategy involves prolonging the presence of natural tears in the eyes to alleviate dry eye symptoms. This is achieved by blocking the tear duct, responsible for draining tears. Gel-like plugs or small silicone plugs can be utilized for this purpose. In some cases, removal of the tear duct may be necessary, or a surgical procedure can permanently close it. Regardless of the method, the goal is to retain tears in the eyes for an extended duration, reducing the issue of dry eyes.
Treatment of ocular surface inflammation of the eyelid : In addressing the condition, the doctor may recommend a combination of interventions, including eye ointments, lid massage, warm compresses, eyelid cleaners, and eye drops. These measures aim to alleviate inflammation around the eye surface.
Adding Tears : Mild cases of dry eye conditions can be managed using artificial tear solutions, which can be applied multiple times to enhance natural tear production. To minimize eye irritation, a preservative-free artificial tear with minimal additives can be effective. In persistent cases where dry eyes do not respond to artificial tears, additional approaches may be necessary for effective treatment.
Increasing Tear Production : An optometrist may prescribe eye drops designed to boost tear production, and they might also recommend omega-3 fatty acid supplements as a nutritional support for managing dry eyes.
Benefits of Dry Eyes Syndrome Treatments
Cost of Dry Eyes Treatments
Dry eye treatments in India come at a highly affordable price. Additionally, the cost may vary based on the specific symptoms of dry eye syndrome.