Dr. Hofbauer specializes in
the treatment of dry eye.
An adequate tear layer is necessary for the health and comfort of your eyes.
The tears lubricate and nourish the surface of the eye, and help prevent
infection.
The tear film on your eye is actually made up of three layers. The outer
layer is oil or lipid based to slow evaporation. The middle layer consists
of salt, water, and protein. The inner mucin layer keeps the tears spread
evenly instead of beading up. All of these components must be present in
the correct proportion.
When the eye does not
produce adequate tears, it becomes irritated, itchy, and burning. This
irritation can then trigger tearing. That is why a person whose eyes are
tearing can still be considered to have "dry eyes."
Artificial Tears
The most common treatment for dry eyes is the use of artificial tears.
These drops can be used as often as needed to provide comfort.
Some brands of artificial tears include Refresh
PlusÒ,
GentealÒ, and Tears Naturale
IIÒ.
However, if used continuously one may develop an allergy to the preservatives in
the drops. People with chronic dry eyes are recommended to use artificial
tears without preservatives. These drops will have "Preservative
Free" or "PF" on the label.
Gels
If the artificial tears help only briefly, Dr. Hofbauer may recommend a thicker
solution such as Bion TearsÒ or
CelluviscÒ.
These are artificial tears mixed with methylcellulose. This will
provide longer-lasting relief, but may temporarily blur your vision.
Ointment
To keep your eyes lubricated throughout the night, Dr. Hofbauer may recommend an
ointment such as Refresh PMÒ. This is applied just
before going to bed.
Punctal plugs
There is another technique to keep more tears in the eyes, by plugging up the
tube that drains the tears away. The punctum is a tiny opening in the
eyelid, that empties into your nose and throat. A soft insert can
block this opening. Dr. Hofbauer can do this procedure in the office.
In
Addition....
Drinking plenty of water
keeps your body hydrated, and may help with tear production. A humidifyer
in your house will slow down the evaporation of your tears. Wrap-around
eyeglasses block the wind and may hold more moisture in front of your
eyes.
Important!
This information is to be used
only after the diagnosis of dry eyes has been made by your doctor, and is
not intended to take the place of a medical exam. Please call our office at
(310) 273-2333 if you have any questions, or would like to make an appointment
for an examination.
Laura E. Fox, MD
John D. Hofbauer, MD
416 N. Bedford Drive, Suite 300
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
(310) 273-2333
e-mail
info@eyedrs.com
