Dry Eye Treatment

Dry eye is a term that describes insufficient moisture of the eyes, either because there is not sufficient tear production and/or the tear film has improper chemical composition.

In addition to causing discomfort, untreated dry eye can lead to other issues including light sensitivity, blurred vision, increased risk of infection, or damage to the corneal surface.

Dry Eye Diagram

Causes & Symptoms

Dry eye often occurs during the natural aging process and is more common in women.  It can also result from eyelid or blinking problems, certain medications (such as antihistamines, diuretics and antidepressants), climate (low humidity, wind, dust), injury and various health problems (Sjogren’s syndrome, some types of arthritis).  Dry eye can vary from mild to severe.

Some symptoms include:

  • Burning
  • Redness
  • Tearing
  • Foreign body sensation
  • Blurred vision
  • Light sensitivity

Treatment

Treatment for dry eye depends on the severity of the disease and the symptoms.  Milder cases of dry eyes may respond to the use of artificial tears.  More moderate or sever cases of dry eyes may benefit from increasing humidity at work or home, or using artificial tears, gels or ointments more frequently.  Many cases of moderate to severe dry eye respond favorably to Restasis (Cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion 0.05%) which is a topical medication that may be beneficial in increasing and normalizing the tear film.  Punctal plugs can also be utilized to block drainage of tears in order to keep them on the surface of the eye for a longer period of time.

In some cases of extreme dry eye that is not responding well to other treatments, our ophthalmologist may prescribe autologous serum tears.  These tears are made using the patient’s serum, which is nearly identical in composition to their own tears.

Videos

Through Our Patients Eyes

"I took my son to see Dr. Morse when he was about four and a half. My husband and I have no vision issues, so we were really in uncharted territory. Dr. Morse and the Concord Eye Center staff were so forthcoming and honest with information and that was so important for us. This was all new and we really needed all the support we could get. Dr. Morse has been really great – taking the time to explain everything to us. Cal was very nervous about having glasses but once he got them, he could see so much better that he forgot all his nerves and just took to them. We have just felt very comfortable with Dr. Morse and are grateful for the care she’s given our family."

Cal's Mom - Concord NH

"Dr. Wasserman knew when it was time for me to consider surgery and I liked that he didn’t rush it, that he was really looking for things to get to a point where surgery made sense. When he said it was time, that surgery could really help, we scheduled it. I felt comfortable with Dr. W and with the procedure – I knew I was in good hands and that I’d be fine. It all went very smoothly. My life has improved so much since the surgery – I love that I really don’t need my glasses all the time anymore – I don’t need them for driving or distance. I didn’t realize the cataracts were that bad – I am so happy it’s done!"

Barbara - Franklin NH

“I’ve been an eye surgeon in Concord for 22 years and have performed hundreds of surgeries for my patients. I can’t tell you how rewarding it is to hear them tell me how their sight has been enhanced and their quality of life improved. My favorite day of the week is my surgery day. My second is the next day when I get to hear the “wows” and see the smiles on patients’ faces. I think that’s what’s been my greatest pleasure in serving the people of Concord and the surrounding towns since 1994. If you have been noticing changes in your vision, I’m proud to recommend that you give us a call.”

Dr Erin Fogel – Concord Eye Center