Dry Eye Disease - Catch It Early & Treat the Underlying Cause

Dry eye disease results from inadequate levels of moisture in the eye, commonly resulting in redness, discomfort, and may even account for decreased visual acuity.  In understanding the path that results in dry eyes, one may better understand its development and symptoms and would then be able to take appropriate steps to treatment.

“The key to dry eye treatment is to treat the pathogenesis of the disease and not the sequelae. Don't treat the symptoms - treat the disease process itself.” - OCULAR SURGERY NEWS, 2017.

The progression of abnormalities in the meibomian glands into dry eyes follows a series of steps. Meibomian gland disease causes the tears to evaporate too quickly due to changes in tear osmolarity, leading to development of dry eye disease. As we age, the bacteria that resides in the lid margin proliferates into the follicles and then down into the duct. This consequence of this would be inflammation which may lead to atrophy and desensitization in severe cases.

Therefore, the solution to dry eyes is to approach the progression at the folliculitis stage where the patient is merely sensitive and experiences symptoms of itching and/ or burning. It is imperative to be proactive about addressing dry eyes, taking preventative measures in order to prevent severe cases.

If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eyes or you may suspect that you are developing dry eye, please contact our office at 310-734-3446 or visit our website, http://www.bheyeguy.com, to book an appointment.