What is Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratroconjunctivitis Sicca)?  What is the treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome (Keratroconjunctivitis Sicca)?

Dry eye syndrome is a very common condition that involves ocular irritation due to a poor tear film.  There are multiple causes of dry eyes including eye scars, poor tear film, after LASIK or refractive surgery, vitamin deficiency, collagen vascular disorder and Sjogren’s Syndrome.  One will experience ocular irritation, mild redness, foreign body sensation, burning, dryness, and possibly a decrease in vision.  Often one will have excessive tearing which ironically is an indication of dry eyes. 

There are a variety of treatments available.   It is important to treat the underlining condition.  This will often decrease or eliminate one’s symptoms.  Initially artificial tears or ointments and environment changes can significantly improve one’s symptoms.  Eye lid hygiene and hot compress often help with gland function in order to produce an efficient tear film.  There are also procedures that involve occluding one’s puncta and moisture chambers to help maintain the moisture on the eye.  Finally, medications like cyclosporine and corticosteroids have been found to be beneficial for some conditions that cause dry eyes.

Treatment

     Treat underling condition

     Artificial tears or ointments

     Modify the environment

     Lid disease treatment

     Punctal plugs

     Cyclosporine

     Corticosteriods