| Dr. G.Barnard Wilson is an Optometrist and has answered some common questions that Bizymoms visitors have about Dry Eye.
Q. What is Dry Eye?
A. Dry Eyes is basically a condition, in which, there is either a tear volumn deficiency or an inflammation of the lipid and tear secreting glands of the eyelids.
Q. How do you treat Dry Eye?
A. Dry eye treatment - depending on the severity of the condition many options are available. Artificial tears is the main treatment (usually 3-4 times per day sometimes more). Omega three supplements (either fish oil or flax seed oil capsules) help calm the inflammation of the tears glands in the lids (usually (1) 1000-1200 mg capsule in the morning and (1) Capsule in the evening).
Sometimes, the inflammation needs additional help in the form of either Restatis (2 times per day) or a combination of Restasis and a topical steroid drop (like lotemax 4 times per day). Hydration is, also, important and 4 to 6 (8) oz glasses of water per day should be consumed.
Q. Can Watery Eyes Be a Symptom of Dry Eye?
A. Watery eyes can be a symptom of dry eyes. Also, burning and gritty feelings are associated with Dry eyes. Even blurry vision could indicate Dry eyes.
Q. Can reading and TV or computer viewing cause Dry Eye?
A. Reading and close work (i.e. Computers, video games etc.) can cause Dry eyes in the respect that we do not blink at a normal rate and the eyes are not lubricated normally.
Q. What else can cause Dry Eye?
A. Many factors can contribute to dry eyes including: medications, diuretics, caffeine, pollution, humidity (air-conditioning/heaters), and genetic conditions such as Sjogren’s.
Q. What are the warning signs and how is it detected?
A.Warning signs of Dry eyes may be nothing (Patient is not aware of their condition), watery eyes, blurry vision (gets better with a blink) gritty feeling and if the cornea is being affected even pain.
Q. Is there treatment for corneal scarring caused by Dry Eye?
A. Corneal scarring from dry eyes is a very rare condition. Certainly, lubrication is up most important including gels and ointments (at night). Sometimes, a therapeutic soft bandage lens is worn on the scarred cornea to protect it from dehyrating. If the scarring is severe enough and the vision is affected, a corneal transplant may be needed.
Q. How can we contact Dr. Wilson if we have further questions?
A. I can contacted by e-mail at eyedoc@arrival.net or drwilson@arrival.net. My website is www.drgbwilson.com. Telephone no is 209 524-7870.
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