4 Treatment Options For Dry Eyes When Drops Don't Work

Dry eyes can be a nuisance and inconvenience for some. For others, it can be a debilitating condition. Many people who suffer from dry eyes are able to easily treat the issue with drops. However, drops aren't effective for some people, and this can lead to very serious symptoms. Chronic, serious dry eye issues can lead to consistent discomfort, light sensitivity, and even the inability to see clearly at night.

Fortunately, there are other treatment options available. Your optician can provide in-office treatments that may be more effective than over-the-counter drops. Below are a few options to discuss with your eye care specialist.

Steam goggles.

This is a quick, affordable treatment that you can undergo on a regular basis to maintain vital oils in your eyes. As the name suggests, you wear goggles that release steam into your eyes. Don't worry, though—the steam isn't heavy. In fact, you can see through the goggles and scroll through your phone during the treatment.

The steam warms your eyelids and softens oils in your glands. Your doctor may then massage your eyelids to release the oils. Quick and painless, this can be an effective treatment.

Eyelid scrub.

This is another quick in-office treatment. Your eye doctor will use a small tool to scrub the edge of your eyelid. This removes bacteria and film from your eyelid that may be blocking the release of oils. This procedure can be done regularly to prevent film from accumulating and keep your eyes producing tears.

Daily scrub and cleanser machine.

This is a regular, daily treatment that requires only one visit to the eye doctor. Your eye doctor can prescribe a daily scrub and cleanser. You apply the scrub and then use the cleansing machine for approximately one minute every morning to massage your eyelids and clean out film and bacteria. That allows your eyelids to release oils and continue to produce tears.

Punctal plugs.

Your eye doctor inserts tiny silicone plugs into the punctum, which is the area in the lower eyelid that releases tears. The plugs either dissolve on their own or they can be removed and replaced. While the insertion of a plug may sound painful, this procedure is actually quick and painless and can be a very effective solution that can last for months.

Amniotic tissue treatment.

This is another treatment option that can last for months. Your eye doctor can use this treatment when your dry eyes are caused by cornea damage. A donated piece of tissue is used to create a lens that is placed over your cornea. Because the tissue is regenerative, it helps your cornea to heal naturally.

Ready to get past your chronic dry eye issues? Contact an eye doctor service such as Southern  Colorado Eye Care Associates today to discuss your treatment options.

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