Dry Eye Treatments
What are they? Who are they suitable for?
Dry eye treatments are planned using different methods depending on the cause and severity of the disease.
• Artificial tear drops: The most common treatment. They temporarily compensate for tear deficiency.
• Gels and ointments: Particularly suitable for nighttime use, providing long-lasting moisture.
• Tear duct plugs (punctal plugs): Help tears remain in the eye longer.
• Anti-inflammatory drops: Medications such as cyclosporine or lifitegrast reduce inflammation on the eye surface.
• Omega-3 supplements: Taken orally, these supplements can improve tear quality.
• Meibomian gland treatments: Warm compresses, massage, or special devices are used to open the oil glands and prevent evaporation.
• Device treatments such as IPL (intense pulsed light) and LipiFlow: These are particularly effective for dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction.
• Environmental measures: Avoiding prolonged exposure to air conditioning and screens, using a humidifier, and blinking frequently are beneficial.
Treatment should be personalized, and more effective results are usually achieved with a combination of multiple methods.
Who is it suitable for?
Dry eye treatments are suitable for individuals experiencing symptoms such as burning, stinging, dryness, foreign body sensation, or blurred vision in their eyes. In particular, those who spend long hours in front of a computer or screen, those who work in air-conditioned or dry environments, those whose tear production decreases with age, and women experiencing hormonal changes may benefit from these treatments. Dry eye treatments also play an important role for individuals with underlying health problems such as rheumatic diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome), eyelid problems, or meibomian gland dysfunction. Contact lens users or individuals who use certain medications for long periods of time may also develop dry eyes, making them suitable candidates for treatment.