The dry eye syndrome connection with lasik


Dry eye syndrome can be an irritating problem. If you are seeking lasik surgery you should be aware that dry eye syndrome can be aggravated by it or you can develop it. So anyone considering lasik eye surgery should learn a little about dry eye syndrome. This can help you understand how to handle the problem if you should develop it. For those who already have it you can learn how to best take care of it so you can proceed with lasik eye surgery.

Dry eye syndrome is a condition where the eyes do not produce enough moisture. It can produce symptoms like dryness, burning or a scratching feeling in the eye. Dry eye syndrome can be mild to severe. Mild sufferers may not always suffer from extreme symptoms and can usually resolve the issue easily. For sever sufferers dealing with dry eye syndrome can be difficult. The lack of moisture causes the eye to become very dry. It can make a person feel like they have something in their eyes at all times with no way to get it out.

The cause of dry eye syndrome is that the eye does not produce tears like it should. Sometimes this can be a result of a chemical imbalance in the eye or the eye not developing properly. It can come with age, as a result of medications, or due to climate conditions. You can also develop dry eye syndrome if you do not blink enough or wear contact lenses. Women are most often the sufferers of dry eye syndrome due to hormone changes. Smoking has also been linked to this condition. To diagnosis you with dry eye syndrome your doctor will measure your tears. One method is using a strip of paper placed near the edge of the eye. This test is called a Schirmer test. You will have the condition for the rest of your life because there is no cure however, there are many effective treatments.

You and your doctor can work together to find the best solution for your dry eye syndrome, but here are some of the solutions that your doctor may suggest:
- Special sunglasses, called Panoptx sunglasses that keep out wind, dust and other airborne allergens.
- Artificial tear eye drops.
- Adding more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet.
- Plugs that go into the tear ducts to keep the tears in your eye.
- Stopping medications that can trigger dry eye syndrome.

For patients that would like lasik eye surgery it is important to know that if you have dry eye syndrome it is essential to inform your doctor before having the procedure done. Lasik can cause your symptoms to get worse. You may also have difficulty healing after the surgery. Most often if you have dry eye syndrome the surgeon will want to get your condition under control before performing lasik.

Dry eye syndrome is permanent, but can be treated fairly successfully. You do not have to live with the constant irritation. Talk to your doctor about what you can do. If you are seeking lasik eye surgery, be aware you may have to wait until your condition is under control.

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