The type of dry eye treatment an optometrist recommends depends on several factors, including the cause and severity of the dry eye. Though this common condition affects millions, not all will need prescription medication to treat it, and others may resolve their dry eye with lifestyle changes and treating underlying conditions. However, when these measures are insufficient, it may be time to talk to an eye doctor about prescription medication.
Tear production is necessary to maintain the eye's health of the front surface and allow clear vision. When someone does not produce enough tears to keep the front of the eye lubricated, it causes dry eye. Symptoms of this condition include irritated, gritty, or burning eyes, blurry vision, and redness. Someone with dry eye may also experience a sensation of feeling something in their eyes.
Dry eye can range from mild to severe and is more common in older adults. Someone can develop dry eye for a number of reasons. In addition to age, sex is a factor, as it is more likely to develop in female patients. Certain medications have dry eye as a side effect, and several underlying medical conditions can cause it. Dry eye may result from eye surgery or long-term use of contact lenses. Even environmental factors such as dry climate, smoke, or wind can contribute to this condition.
Typically, the first approach to dry eye treatment is addressing any environmental factors, lifestyle habits, or underlying conditions contributing to the condition. Along with this, many patients find relief using over-the-counter products such as eye drops. However, if dry eye persists or becomes more severe, it may be time to pursue prescription drug options.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the following medication for dry eye treatment:
These medications are delivered as eye drops to treat dry eye that results from inflammation. However, the drops can cause temporary discomfort, and these medications can take three to six months to start working.
This is an ocular corticosteroid eye drop for treating dry eye flares. Eysuvis can work more quickly than other medications. However, due to the side effects of steroids, it can only be used for two weeks at a time.
Varenicline solution is a nasal spray approved to treat dry eye in 2021. This spray stimulates tear, oil, and mucin production. It offers the advantage of being easier to apply than eye drops and not causing their stinging and burning sensation.
Each of these medications has its own set of side effects and benefits. Therefore, working with an eye care professional, such as an optometrist, is important when deciding which is right for the patient.
Prescription medication for dry eye treatment is available in our New Rochelle office. If you have tried other treatments and have not found relief, we may be able to help. To learn more about prescription dry eye treatments, call us today.
Request an appointment here: https://brighteyesny.com or call Bright Eyes Optometry at (914) 730-9574 for an appointment in our New Rochelle office.
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