DRY EYES
OVERVIEW | DIAGNOSIS | TREATMENT

Overview
Dry eyes are a very common problem, especially in the aging population and patients with autoimmune disorders including Sjogren’s, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. It is characterized by a burning, stinging or sandy sensation, difficulties tolerating contact lenses, or excessive tearing. The excessive tearing, in this case, occurs as a reflex to the damage on the ocular surface of the dry eyes. 
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Diagnosis
Dry eye syndrome is most commonly diagnosed by the symptoms as well as the complete eye exam. There are also special tests that can be done to further evaluate the dry eyes. These include the Schirmer’s test, which measures tear production, and fluorescein, Rose Bengal, and Lisamine Green dyes, which help to highlight areas on the ocular surface that are damaged from dry eyes. 
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Treatment
In mild dry eyes, treatment begins with use of artificial tears, which help to supplement the tear film that is already present. As the dry eye symptoms worsen, treatment options tend to be geared more towards the underlying etiology of the dry eyes. 

Some of the traditional treatment options include the use of (1) thicker lubricating gels or ointments, (2) preservative-free artificial tears and (3) punctal plugs, which help to maintain the tears that are already present. 

The newest addition to the treatment of dry eyes is the use of Restasis® (Cyclosprine A). In certain dry eye conditions, the etiology is thought to be due to increased inflammation, which decreases the lacrimal gland’s ability to produce tears. Restasis® is an eye drop that decreases the inflammation and thereby, improves the function of the lacrimal gland. It is the first and only medication currently on the market that can actually increase tear production. 

Blepharitis and meibomitis are common eyelid conditions that are very frequently associated with dry eyes. It is not sufficient to just treat the dry eyes if these other conditions are present, as they will exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Treatments for these conditions include lid scrubs, lid massages, warm compresses, Azasite eye drops, and oral Doxycycline.

Both Dr. Decker and Dr. Yang treat a large number of dry eye patients and are experienced in all the various treatment modalities.
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