WHAT CAUSES DRY EYES?
If you have had dry eyes but yet have not become better despite using eye drops, it’s extremely likely that you suffer from blepharitis and/or meibomitis. This is a new scientific discovery. Years before, doctors said that there was no cure for dry eyes. But with this new discovery, innovative treatments have recently become available at The Eyeclinic by Dr Cheryl Lee.
Common causes of Dry Eyes include:
Meibomitis and meibomian gland disease
More than 60 percent of dry-eye sufferers have meibomian gland disease (MGD)! MGD is not cured by drops which explains why many patients still have dry eyes after using eye drops as eye drops don’t treat MGD. It’s well-accepted that meibomitis is characterized by abnormal meibum secretions, differing from normal secretions in viscosity and/or color as well as physical composition.
Hypersecretion of meibum or oil happens during infrequent blinking while using digital devices or reading. Infrequent blinking causes less lubrication across the eyes, thus stimulating Meibomian glands to produce excessive meibum, resulting in blockage of glands overtime.
Blepharitis
This is inflammation of the eyelids, in which the eyelids become red, itchy and irritated. This is due to the overgrowth of bacteria along the lid margins.
Contact lens wear
Refractive eye surgeries
Dry eye is the most common complaint or adverse event after LASIK.
Hormonal deficiencies or changes
Thyroid conditions and hormonal changes during menopause are also the common factors that are associated with dry eyes.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
What do dry eyes feel like?
- Gritty like there is sand in the eyes
- Itchy and red eyes
- Teary eyes
- Blurred vision or light sensitivity which improves with blinking or lubricating eye drops
- Tired eyes
- Discomfort with contact lenses
What happens if we leave dry eyes untreated?
Not only is it uncomfortable and unattractive but more of concern is that in the long term it can cause damage and scarring to the cornea and conjunctiva. A natural, healthy tear film is essential to fight infection and to provide nourishment vital for clear vision. That is why you must not ignore the condition. You should find out the underlying cause of your dry eyes and get it treated properly.
TREATMENTS
Tixel® Dry Eyes
Tixel® Dry Eyes treatment utilises Thermo-Mechanical Ablation TMA® – a non-laser treatment technology that transfers thermal energy to the skin around the eyes quickly and safely to correct dry eyes by resolving meibomitis (link of meibomitis ) and improving the tear film. This treats the dry eye at its root where eye drops only bring temporal relief.
The treatment takes less than one minute and involves only a little discomfort with little to no pain. It is non invasive and there is no downtime. The effects are longer lasting versus the use of eye drops.
In most cases, two to three sessions are necessary, four in case of severe eye dryness, with intervals of two to three weeks. Most of the patients notice a significant improvement right after the first session.
Eye-Light®
Scientifically proven treatment for Marginal Gland Disease.
The equipment treats the Meibomian glands of upper and lower eyelids with direct and indirect application of the two exclusive technologies.
LIGHT MODULATION® treats directly the Meibomian glands inducing endogenous heat of both eyelids, increasing and stabilizing tear lipid layer.
OPE® applied on periorbital and cheekbone areas, triggers stimulation of neurotransmitters. These solicit the Meibomian glands to produce, contracting, a higher secretion; the natural lipid flow increases reducing evaporation of tears.
Eye-Light® is used for:
- Styes and Chalazions (Yan Zhen)
By liquefying the oil discharge from meibomian glands and unblocking the blocked pore. Our children and adult patients are happy as it means that surgery is not needed. - Dry eyes due to marginal gland disease
When should treatment sessions be done to achieve optimal results?
To see good results and achieve high success, 3 treatments are needed. 86% of patients do get better!
Treatment session is 20 minutes per session and should be done on 1 to 2 weeks interval.
Why choose Eye-Light®?
- Painless
- Non-invasive
- It is not a surgery
- Straightforward clinic treatment
- No down time, you can resume work and social activities immediately after treatment!
Watch the video to see how Eye-Light® is carried out.
Blephex
Blepharitis is the next common cause of dry eyes. Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelids. This is due to the overgrowth of bacteria along the lid margins. It can affect people of all ages.
Check out the video below for the process of the Blephex procedure: