Pharmaceuticals

Many patients commonly use over-the-counter eye drops for the temporary relief of dry eye symptoms. However, prescription eye drops aimed at reducing ocular inflammation, one of the major causes of dry eye disease, may help to reduce the need for these over-the-counter drops.

Nutraceuticals

Fish derived omega-3 (EPA/DHA) supplementation on a daily basis has been effective in improving signs and symptoms of dry eye disease in many patients. Choosing an omega-3 supplement can be overwhelming due to the numerous options now available to consumers. Ask one of our doctors if you are a candidate for omega-3 supplementation and the multiple benefits associated with regular intake.

Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral contact lenses are custom made, large diameter contact lenses designed to vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera. By doing so, these lenses create a liquid reservoir underneath the lenses that provide a moist environment, continuously hydrating and protecting the ocular surface. Patients suffering from severe dry eye and other ocular surface disease can find significant improvement in symptoms with the use of scleral contact lenses.

Eyelid Hygiene

Dryness on the ocular surface is sometimes caused by a condition called blepharitis (eyelid inflammation). Blepharitis can be caused by certain bacteria, mites, allergens, and dermatologic conditions. Eyelid hygiene therapies are customized to treat blepharitis depending on the cause. Most eyelid hygiene therapies consist of lid scrubs, lid cleansers, and warm compresses along with other specific medication or eye drops to help treat the underlying cause of the blepharitis.

Meibomian Gland Care

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is the main cause of evaporative dry eye where the aqueous portion of the tears evaporates too quickly from the surface of the eye. The meibomian glands in the eyelids produce the oil portion of the tears but these glands may become inflamed and clogged over time (MGD) resulting in less oil secretion into the tear film. Treatments for MGD include home therapies (warm compresses, blinking exercises) and in-office treatments (gland expression).