Dry eyes, or dry eye syndrome, is one of the most common eye and vision problems today. Nearly 1 out of every 10 people suffer from dry eyes. Dry eye occurs when the body cannot produce an adequate amount of tears to keep eyes moist, clear and comfortable. It can be caused by changes in your body that affect the quality of tears, making them evaporate too quickly. Left untreated, dry eye syndrome can cause severe eye pain, vision-threatening infections and other complications.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

  • Blurred vision, burning, sore or painful eyes
  • Sandy or gritty feeling to the eyes
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Contact lense discomfort

Dry Eye Treatments

Each case of dry eye is unique. Dr. Williams carefully examines the surface of the eyes and makes sure there are an adequate amount of tears to keep the eyes healthy and comfortable. If there are signs of dry eye syndrome, she will suggest evaluating the true makeup of the tears using a new test called TearLab. Dr. Williams will discuss her findings with you and explain the best treatment option for the patient’s specific dry eye condition. Possible treatments include:

  • Specially-formulated artificial tears
  • Medicated eye drops
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Punctal occlusion
  • Dry eye contact lenses
  • Lipiflow
  • Diet modification
  • Nutritional supplements
  • Often, a combination of treatments provides the best results.

Dry Eye or MGD?

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a leading cause of Dry Eye Syndrome that occurs when a blockage within the meibomian glands in the eyelids. Over time, these glands stop producing enough oil to secrete into your tears. Without this protective oily layer of tear film, your tears evaporate more quickly, which leads to irritation, discomfort, and when left untreated, gland dropout.

LipiScan & LipiFlow Treatments

At Williams Eye Care & Associates, we offer a LipiScan treatment for MGD. A LipiScan is a screening device that images the meibomian oil glands to see if they’re functioning properly. If the screening reveals blockage within the glands, we can use a thermal treatment called LipiFlow to unblock the glands and encourage proper functioning.

LipiFlow is the only FDA-cleared device for removing gland blockages and restoring gland function. Through advances in the application of Vectored Thermal Pulsation (VTPTM) technology, the LipiFlow treatment utilizes a patented algorithm of heat applied to the inner eyelids and massage to remove the obstructions in your meibomian glands. 

Lumenis Optima IPL for Ocular Rosacea

Treat your skin and eyelid inflammation with Lumenis Optima IPL. A revolutionary technology used for various skin treatments IPL, Intense Pulsed Light, is FDA cleared for more than 20 different skin indications. With maximal safety and comfort, it is a gentle and effective way to relieve eyelid inflammation. Typically four sessions, with 3-4 weeks in-between, gets results. Each treatment is customized to fit your skin type and condition. With more than 85% of skin and eyelid inflammation patients also suffering from inflammatory ocular conditions, recognize these symptoms as possible markers for dry eye and other treatable problems. Call for an evaluation in our Dry Eye Clinic at 573-445-8780.