Dry eye is very common, probably affecting 80% of Americans. It can cause eye irritation, blurry vision, visual fluctuation, pain, and redness. Contributing causes can include contact lenses, eye surface inflammation, eyelid malposition, insufficient blinking (e.g., from too much screen time with phones, tablets, or computers), tear gland obstruction, eye allergy, eyelid inflammation, Demodex mites, poor diet, oral medications (e.g., oral antidepressants, oral anti-allergy medications), glaucoma drops, autoimmune conditions, hot/dry climate, prior eye surgery, age, and menopause. Dry eye affects not only comfort but also outcomes of cataract surgery, LASIK, and other eye procedures.
For a long time, artificial tears were the only available treatment for dry eye but these often provide only temporary relief. The last 5 years have witnesses multiple new options for dry eye enabling customized therapies for this common and often disabling condition.
Dr. Ambati will evaluate you and your eyes and determine if there is:
Based on a thorough evaluation (which includes in-depth discussion, physical examination, advanced imaging, and sometimes blood tests), Dr. Ambati will discuss with you potential options and what is best for your eyes, including, for example:
Lipiflow is the most effective treatment for opening tear glands and restoring normal eyelid tear gland function. It uses heat and pressure in a 12-minute in-office procedure to relieve obstructions in tear glands, prevent future tear gland loss, and improve long-term eye surface health and comfort. Learn more about Lipiflow at:
Dry Eye and MGD from TearScience on Vimeo.
