When the eyes don't produce enough tears or produce tears that don't have the proper chemical composition, dry eyes can be the result. While dry eye is usually a mild condition, some major complications such as pain and scarring may result. Dry eyes can be a temporary or chronic condition and the duration of symptoms can help determine the type of treatment that is most appropriate.
Dietary Changes
Some people with mild dry eye respond to a change in diet. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in some types of fish, seeds and nuts, are especially important in the production of the lipid portion of tears. Omega-3s are available in supplement form as well as in foods.
OTC Medication
Eye drops and ointments are available over the counter to temporarily ease the symptoms of dry eye. These add to the level of moisture in the eye and act as tear substitutes, relieving symptoms, but do not fix the underlying problem. Preservative-free eye drops are available for those sensitive to preservatives, wearers of soft contact lenses and those who need to use eye drops more than four times daily.
Prescription Medication
An anti-inflammatory medication called cyclosporine may be prescribed to help sufferers of dry eye. Cyclosporine can reduce dry eye symptoms and help protect the cornea from damage caused by lack of tears. It also causes the eye to produce more tears.
Special Glasses
A type of glasses called moisture chamber spectacles can be purchased to be worn over dry eyes. These glasses act like goggles that wrap around the head and protect the eyes from environmental factors that can increase dryness and help prevent the moisture in the eyes from evaporating.
Drainage Plugs
Small silicone or collagen plugs can be placed into the drainage holes at the inner corners of the eyelids. These plugs are called lacrimal plugs or punctal plugs and can be placed in the eye by a doctor in a simple in-office procedure. They are completely reversible and painless. Permanent plugs are also available.
Surgery
A surgery called punctal cautery can be performed to permanently seal the drainage holes of the eyelid. Punctal cautery uses a small heated wire to create a scar that seals up the drainage duct. This can prevent the limited tears produced from draining away, keeping the eye moist for longer periods of time. Another type of surgery sometimes used for severe dry eye syndrome is the transplantation of salivary glands from the lower lip to the sides of the eye.
