What Exactly Is Dry Eye?

Causes of dry eye

Symptoms of Dry Eye

  • burning
  • irritation
  • grittiness
  • foreign body sensation
  • blurry vision
  • tearing
  • eye fatigue
  • pain

What Causes Dry Eye?

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) causes 86% of dry eye disease. The meibomian glands are oil glands in the eyelids that secrete a lipid oil that provide the outer most protective layer to our tears. An insufficient lipid layer from occluded glands results in rapid tear evaporation, which can lead to inflammation and meibomian gland loss. Some dry eye cases are mild, but some progress to severe ocular surface damage and vision loss. Therefore, it is important to treat as early as possible to maintain healthy meibomian gland function.

Aqueous deficient dry eye occurs when there is an inadequate wet layer to the tear film produced by the lacrimal gland. The risk of aqueous deficiency increases with age. Other factors that can contribute are loss of corneal sensitivity from: refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK), cataract surgery (limbal incision) and contact lens wear, hormonal imbalance, some systemic medications and rheumatologic conditions. It is possible to have a combination of MGD and aqueous deficient dry eye.

Visual representation of healthy eye glands

Evaluating Dry Eye

Keratograph Assessment
Keratograph
Woman receiving Lipiflow Procedure

Dry Eye Treatment

Depending on the cause and severity of dry eye, there are multiple treatments available including artificial tears, prescription eye drops, lid hygiene routines, oral supplements and in-office procedures such as LipiFlow. LipiFlow is the most advanced in-office treatment. It utilizes a painless thermal pulsation device, which simultaneously heats all four eyelids to ten degrees above body temperature and clears out all the obstruction from the meibomian glands in only twelve minutes. Dozens of studies have shown that LipiFlow is able to provide relief from dry eye symptoms for more than a year.

LipiFlow Treatment for Dry Eye

LipiFlow is the most advanced in-office treatment. It utilizes a painless thermal pulsation device, which simultaneously heats all four eyelids to ten degrees above body temperature and clears out all the obstruction from the meibomian glands in only twelve minutes.