Developing a Personalized Dry Eye Management Plan With Your Eye Care Professional

Living with dry eyes can affect an individual's quality of life. Some symptoms of the chronic condition include:
 

• Severe dryness
   

• A burning sensation
   

• The feeling of sand in the eye
   

• Itchiness
   

• Pain
   

• Eye-watering

Fortunately, several treatment options can help reduce the symptoms.

Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome 

Dry eye syndrome is a chronic ocular surface disease that often causes extreme discomfort. It occurs when the eyes fail to produce adequate, quality tears to keep the eye surface clear, healthy, and lubricated.

The condition can affect vision and overall eye health. For most patients, the disease is chronic, inflammatory, and progressive. If not treated, it can lead to complications, including ocular scarring or damage and blurry vision.

Personalized Eyecare Routine

Daily eye care and healthy practices can help to relieve dry eye symptoms. Using eye drops and applying a warm compress over the eyelids can help reduce dryness and soothe your eyes. Studies show that digital device use can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

Taking breaks and resting the eyes as often as possible when using digital devices can also help. Consistency is vital, and you can find resources that allow you to track, follow, and fulfill your eye care routine.

Effective Dry Eye Management 

An effective dry eye management plan can help treat the underlying cause while preventing flare-ups of symptoms. A proactive, preventative plan involves cooperation between the patient and the eye care professional.

Active and open communication is vital and involves discussing goals, asking questions, and being ready to implement changes. Understanding the treatment plan and scheduling regular assessments is key to effective management. If you have an underlying health issue, treating the condition can clear up the dry eye symptoms.

Finding the Underlying Cause

To develop an effective dry eye management plan, eye care professionals must determine the underlying cause. The tear film consists of oil, water, and mucus. Inadequate production of the three elements affects the quality of the tears produced.

Most cases of dry eye occur due to inadequate oil production from meibomian gland dysfunction. A blockage of the glands affects oil production, resulting in quick tear evaporation and eye dryness. Diagnosing MGD helps to come up with an effective management plan.

Dry Eye Management Plan

There are several dry eye treatment and management options. Eye doctors recommend management depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. The options include:
 

• Medications to reduce inflammation
   

• Tear-stimulation medicines
   

• Lubricating eye drops
   

• Eye inserts
   

• Punctal plugs 
   

• Autologous blood serum drops
   

• Special contact lenses
   

• Light therapy and eyelid massage (IPL therapy)
   

• Thermal pulsation to unclog the oil glands

Cultivating a personal and long-term therapeutic relationship with your eye care provider can help manage your dry eye disease. Apart from following an effective treatment plan, embracing self-care is essential for long-term relief. Active participation and staying well informed about new treatment options will determine your best option.

For more on developing a personalized dry eye management plan with your eye care professional, visit See Breeze Optometry at our offices in Huntington Beach or Westminster, California. Call (714) 964-3811 or (714) 848-0028 to book an appointment today.