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Dry Eye Treatment

For most people, dry eye treatment can be done at home quickly, easily, and inexpensively. According to online sources, there is nothing a person can really do to completely eliminate the risk of getting dry eye syndrome, which is what the medical condition is commonly called. The eye is such a marvelous creation of God. There are so many parts that must work together to produce clear vision. But the Bible indicates that a healthy eye also affects the body and the soul. "The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!" (Matthew 6: 22-23) Unfortunately, there is no known cure for DES. However, there are a few simple steps and precautions a person can take to reduce the signs and symptoms of DES. But, if DES does become a problem, the progression of dry eye treatment generally moves from home remedies and over-the-counter medications to prescription medications. In the most severe DES cases, surgery is considered an option.

DES requiring dry eye treatment is usually the result of three conditions: decreased tear production, excessive tear evaporation, and an abnormality in the production of mucus and lipids. Tears coat the eyes to keep them moist and comfortable. And they help maintain optimal vision. The protective film is actually three layers. Water, mucus, and lipids make up the eye's protective film. Closest to the cornea is a thin layer of mucus. Mucus serves to help the other aqueous layers spread consistently over the eye. A saltwater solution makes up the middle layer, which is the thickest protective layer. Basically, the middle film has two functions. First, the layer keeps the eyes moist. And dust and other foreign objects are flushed primarily by the middle layer. According to online medical sources, when a person suffers with DES it is because of a defect in the middle layer. Lipids, which are produced in oil glands located in the eyelids, make up the final layer of film. These lipids help decrease evaporation of the other aqueous layers.

Generally, dry eye treatment targets either inadequate tear production or excessive tear evaporation. Tear production is affected by several factors. Age, changes in hormone levels, and disease are some of the more common reasons given for the onset of DES. Insufficient lipids can influence tear evaporation. Some medications can also reduce tear production and cause DES. Antidepressants, antihistamines and oral contraceptives are all capable of producing DES symptoms. But there are other causes that have to be considered when planning treatment. Excessive or prolonged reading, television viewing, or tiredness can result in DES. Activities such as reading and television watching may decrease blinking of the eyelids. Decreased blinking and the inability to fully close the eyelid can increase tear evaporation. Abnormal production of mucus and lipids require dry eye treatment. If the oil glands are blocked for any reason or the secretion is two thick there may not be enough lipids to cover the aqueous layers. Therefore, excessive evaporation occurs. Infection may also result in DES.

People suffering with DES often experience a dry or scratchy sensation in the eyes. He or she may also have burning, itching, or red eyes. Blurred vision and light sensitivity are symptoms, too. Also, a person with DES may feel as though they have something in their eye. All DES symptoms may be exacerbated by such things as dry and windy conditions. Normally, dry eye treatment can be administered at home, but medical experts suggest that a person afflicted with DES seek professional help any time there is pain, blurred vision, and severe redness. According to online sources, an ophthalmologist will usually be able to make an accurate diagnosis simply by listening to the patient's complaints and a quick examination. However, the doctor may use a split lamp for a closer examination. Basically, the tests will check the quality and quantity of the tear layers. Tear break-up time can also be determined. Finally, the conjunctiva and the cornea are checked for abnormalities. In addition to the split lamp examination, dyes are used to determine whether or not DES exists. Salt content can be measured, and a blood test is used to check for the existence of any autoimmune diseases.

Again, dye treatment can be simple and inexpensive. Online self-help tips suggest using a humidifier in the home. Not surprisingly, both heating and air conditioning systems remove moisture from the atmosphere. Rapid air movement affects the eyes, too. Reducing fan speed can help. And an air purifier is useful in removing dust and other particles from the air. Hot compresses are a useful part of the dry eye treatment. Finally, try over-the-counter artificial tears, lubricating drops, and ointments. Resting the eyes is a useful remedy, too. Keep in mind, the severity of a person's DES dictates the course of treatment. If home and over-the-counter remedies don't work, a more aggressive approach is required. Stronger prescription medications can be used: drops, ointments, artificial tears, corticosteroids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drops. Antibiotics are also prescribed to fight bacterial infections. If all other treatments fail, surgery is an option. Although surgery is serious business, the procedures to eliminate DES symptoms only take a few minutes to perform. In one type of surgery, plugs may be used to impede the normal draining of tears. These plugs are quickly and easily removed. But, in severe cases of DES, the drainage ducts may be permanently blocked. Discus all possible dry eye treatment options with a medical professional.

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