Treatment
Treatments may include:
- Wetting drops called artificial tears
- Lubricating ointments (in more severe cases)
- Tiny plugs placed in the tear drainage ducts to help the tears stay on the surface of the eye
- Medications such as Restasis, topical corticosteroids, and oral tetracycline and doxyccycline
Surgery may be used if the eyelids are in an abnormal position.
Prognosis (Expectations)
Most patients with dry eye have only discomfort, and no vision loss. With severe cases, the clear window on the front of the eye (cornea) may become damaged or infected.
Complications
Ulcers or infections of the cornea are serious complications.
Calling Your Health Care Provider
See your health care provider immediately if you have dry eyes and have:
- A sudden increase in discomfort or redness
- A sudden decrease in vision
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Dry eye syndrome : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
-
Dry eye syndrome : Diagnosis & Tests
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Dry eye syndrome : Treatment
Review Date : 10/6/2008
Reviewed By : Paul B. Griggs, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2010 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
