Dry Eye Treatment
Find relief from dry, itchy, irritated eyes.
Dry eyes affect millions of people in the United States. It is estimated that as many as 4.88 million Americans over the age of 50 suffer from this uncomfortable condition.
If you need help, book an appointment at Eye Care Center of Newton. We’ll help you find a treatment option that brings you the relief you’re searching for.
What are the common symptoms of dry eye?
Everyone experiences dry eye differently because there are so many potential underlying causes.
Typical symptoms include:
- Redness or eyes that appear irritated and bloodshot
- Consistent burning or tingling sensations in the eyes
- Eyes that feel itchy or as if they have something in them
- Increased sensitivity to bright lights or sunlight
- Excessive tearing, or eyes that always appear watery
What causes dry eye?
Over 85% of Dry Eye Disease (DED) cases are caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). This occurs due to the malfunction and/or obstruction of the Meibomian glands located in the eyelids. These glands are re-sponsible for producing the lipid (oily) layer of the tears,the layer that prevents tear evaporation.
When not working properly, these glands do not produce enough oil component in the tear film, causing the tears to evaporate more rapidly. An insufficient or absent lipid layer can cause evaporation of the tears up to 16 times faster than normal. When there is not sufficient tear on the surface of the eye, symptoms such as blurred vision, tearing, burning, foreign body sensation, redness, light sensitivity, and itching develop.
How is dry eye diagnosed and treated?
Through imaging of the meibomian glands, measuring osmolarity of the tear film, and screening for certain conditions, we are able to diagnose and provide treatment for the condition.
Some of the typical treatments include:
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) – IPL is a painless method to deliver pulses of light to liquify and release oils that have hardened and clogged the Meibomian glands. IPL also reduces redness and stimulates healthy gland function.
- Red Light Modulation Low-Level Light Therapy (LM LLLT) – Red LM LLLT is a photobiomodulation technique that is used to reduce inflammation around the eyelids and increase ATP production within the cells of the Meibomian gland. This heats the glands from the inside, allowing the oils within the glands to liquify.
- Blue LM LLLT – Blue LM LLLT is used to help eliminate bacteria and demodex on the eyelids. Bacteria and demodex on the eyelids lead to increased inflammation.
Eliminating bacteria and demodex from the eyelids helps reduce the inflammation that is causing damage to the Meibomian glands.
Dry Eye Resources
What Patients Are Saying
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Since the conclusion of my treatment, I am thrilled with the results. I have not had one stye, my eyes are clear and healthy and I am no longer in constant pain. I cannot be more thankful.
Chantelle -
I'm extremely glad that I did this because its provided me a great deal of relief. I used to have to use drops several times throughout the day. Now I don't have to use drops except for once or twice a week.
Cathy
Diagnosis should always be made by a specialist with reliable tests. You should thus avoid self-diagnosis and self-treatment with over the counter drugs. If you fall in the 85% of Meibomian Glands Dysfunction-induced Dry Eye Disease, or are affected by other conditions manageable with our technology, ask us about LLLT treatment!
Dry eyes are not only uncomfortable — they can also be bad for the health of your eyes. Book an appointment at Eye Care Center of Newton to find relief.