Dry eye evaluation and management

What is Dry Eye Disease?

Dry eye disease (DED) is a common, often frustrating condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, causing discomfort, irritation, and sometimes blurry vision. This condition can affect anyone, but it is more common as we age, especially in women.

If you’re experiencing dryness, stinging, or a gritty feeling in your eyes, it might be time to consult with a trusted ophthalmologist. Dr. Ashwin Shetty and Dr. Soumya Shetty offer comprehensive dry eye evaluation and management services to help restore comfort and improve the quality of life for those suffering from this condition.

Why Choose Dr. Ashwin Shetty & Dr. Soumya Shetty for Dry Eye Treatment?

With years of expertise in ophthalmology and a patient-centric approach, Dr. Ashwin Shetty and Dr. Soumya Shetty are dedicated to providing advanced dry eye treatments tailored to your unique needs. Their clinic is equipped with the latest diagnostic tools to accurately identify the cause of your dry eye and recommend personalized treatment plans.

• Advanced Diagnostic Tools: We use state-of-the-art technology to evaluate the function of your tear film and assess the health of your eyes.
• Comprehensive Treatment Options: From lifestyle recommendations to advanced therapies, we offer a range of treatment modalities.
• Experienced Ophthalmologists: Both Dr. Ashwin Shetty and Dr. Soumya Shetty are board-certified ophthalmologists with extensive experience in managing dry eye disease.

Dry Eye Evaluation Process

A thorough evaluation is key to understanding the underlying cause of your dry eye condition. At our clinic, we conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes:

1. Patient History: Understanding your symptoms, medical history, and any environmental factors affecting your eyes.
2. Ocular Surface Examination: We evaluate the health of your tear film, eyelids, and the surface of your eyes.
3. Tear Production Tests: Tests like the Schirmer test and tear breakup time help assess your tear production and stability.
4. Meibomian Gland Evaluation: These glands in your eyelids produce the oily layer of your tears, which prevents evaporation. Dysfunction of these glands is a common cause of dry eye.

Based on the evaluation, we create a customized treatment plan to address the root causes of your dry eye disease.

Dry Eye Treatment Options

At Dr. Ashwin Shetty and Dr. Soumya Shetty’s clinic, we offer a variety of dry eye management options, depending on the severity of your condition:

1. Artificial Tears & Lubricants

For mild dry eye, over-the-counter artificial tears can provide temporary relief by lubricating the surface of the eye.

2. Prescription Medications

In some cases, we may recommend prescription eye drops like cyclosporine (Restasis) or corticosteroid drops to reduce inflammation and promote tear production.

3. Punctal Plugs

These small devices are inserted into the tear ducts to prevent the drainage of tears, keeping your eyes lubricated for longer periods.

4. Meibomian Gland Expression

In cases with Miebomian gland Dysfunction , we offer a treatment called miebomian gland dredging that gently expresses out the miebomian glands Which may help reduce the inflammation in the glands and the lid margin.

5. Scleral Lenses

For severe dry eye, scleral contact lenses can create a stable tear reservoir over the cornea, providing relief from discomfort and improving vision.

Why Is Dry Eye Management Important?

Untreated dry eye can lead to complications such as corneal damage, eye infections, and even vision impairment. Managing dry eye effectively can restore comfort, improve your quality of life, and protect the health of your eyes.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

If you’re unsure whether you have dry eye disease, here are some common symptoms to look out for:

• A feeling of dryness or grittiness in the eyes
• Red, irritated, or burning eyes
• Blurry vision that improves with blinking
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye fatigue, especially after prolonged reading or screen time
• Excessive tearing or watery eyes (a paradoxical response to dryness)

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with Dr. Ashwin Shetty and Dr. Soumya Shetty today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does dry eye treatment take to show results?
A: The timeline for relief depends on the severity of your condition and the treatment chosen. Many patients experience improvement within a few weeks, while others may need a longer course of treatment. Dr. Shetty will guide you on what to expect based on your unique diagnosis.

Q: Are there any natural remedies for dry eyes?
A: Yes, certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate dry eye symptoms. Staying hydrated, avoiding smoke, using a humidifier, and taking regular breaks from screen time can reduce discomfort. Omega-3 supplements are also beneficial for tear production.

Q: Is dry eye a permanent condition?
A: Dry eye can be a chronic condition, but with proper management, many patients can experience long-term relief. Treatment options vary, and ongoing care may be needed to keep symptoms under control.

Q: Can dry eye affect my vision?
A: Yes, in severe cases, untreated dry eye can cause corneal damage, leading to vision problems. It’s important to seek professional care if you experience significant discomfort or vision changes.

Q: How often should I have my eyes checked for dry eye?
A: If you have persistent dry eye symptoms, regular check-ups are recommended. Dr. Shetty can monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed. For patients with a history of dry eye, annual exams are generally advised.