Dry eyes
Today, the symptom “dry eyes” is the most frequent condition in ophthalmology. According to recent studies, approximately one in every five patients who visit ophthalmologists have “dry eyes”. The disease has become increasingly common over the past years.
For additional information on the symptoms and causes of dry eyes and how these can be diagnosed and treated, visit our special topic page:
Tear fluid
Our tears have many functions. They must keep the sensitive cornea and conjunctiva moist, supply them with oxygen and smoothen and compensate small irregularities on the cornea. In addition, tears contain enzymes and antibodies which combat any dirt, bacteria or viruses entering the eye. The tear fluid washes out any foreign bodies. About every 5 to 10 seconds, it is evenly distributed over the surface of the eyeball when we blink.
To be able to perform all these functions, the tear fluid is highly complex. It consists of three components: lipid (oil), water and mucus.
Symptoms
The sensation of a foreign body or dryness can even result in a burning feeling or pain. In this case, the eyes will be nearly permanently red. After sleeping, patients have difficulties opening their eyes. Chronic eyelid margin inflammations may intensify the symptoms. Some patients also complain about an increased tear production, in particular when outdoors when it is windy, but also in indoor areas.
Recommended treatment
The cause of dry eyes must be identified and the dry eyes must be treated with the targeted application of moistening eye drops. Where required, a rinsing of the lacrimal duct may be recommendable. In rare cases, the discharge quantity of the tear film must be reduced through a so-called plug-in.
You will find further information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of dry eyes in our brochure “Treatment of dry eyes”.
Treatment with the E-Eye
In the event that a dysfunction of the meibomian glands is detected during the examination, this can be treated with the E-Eye. Treatment with the E-Eye is a remedial treatment with the aim of allowing the Meibomian glands to work effectively once more.
Where the correction of a visual defect is requested despite dry eyes, we recommend premium Femto Lasik or PRK surgery; however, it must be noted that the dry eye symptoms may increase after such a procedure.
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