What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment is directed at the cause, if one can be found. For example, medications may need to be stopped or changed. If the cause cannot be corrected, treatment is planned to relieve symptoms and prevent damage to the eye.

Artificial tears, in the form of drops, are the most common treatment. These can be bought without a prescription. These drops may need to be used often during the day because they only help moisten the eye for 1 to 2 hours at a time. The drops come in several different levels of thickness, or viscosity. Some people find that the thicker ones work better for them than the more watery forms. Artificial tears can be used as often as needed, once or twice a day, or even several times an hour. If a person needs to use artificial tears more than every 2 hours, preservative-free brands are advised.

People with extremely dry eyes may find that drops are not enough. They can use lubricating ointments in their eyes. These ointments are usually used at bedtime since they last longer through the night than a drop would and may impair vision while in the eye.

Another treatment is to conserve the tears. An eye doctor may insert plugs into the small openings on the eyelids that drain into the nose. Normally tears drain through these openings into the nose and then down the back of the throat. If this channel is plugged, the few tears one does make can stay on the surface of the eye longer, which may help lessen symptoms. The small openings can even be closed permanently with surgery if needed.

Using a humidifier to keep more moisture in the air can lessen evaporation of tears. Placing a pan of water on the radiator at night, especially during the winter, can also help keep room air moist. People with dry eye should avoid anything that may cause more dryness, such as an overly warm room, smoke, hair dryers, or wind.

The treatment of dry eye involves a long-term commitment. It should be understood that the condition is not likely to be cured, but it can be managed. It is rare for this condition to cause permanent visual loss. Dry eye is usually a matter of the comfort of the eye and possibly a temporary blurring of vision.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Some artificial tears have preservatives that can cause side effects in people with dry eye. These include burning, itching, and allergic reactions. There are preservative-free artificial tears that those individuals can use.

If surgery is done, there is a very small risk of infection or reaction to any pain medicine used.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If treatment is successful, no further treatment is needed. In many cases, however, people need ongoing treatment for quite some time. Other treatment may be needed for the cause of the dry eye.

How is the condition monitored?

Affected people can generally monitor their symptoms at home. In severe cases, regular eye exams may be needed to monitor for eye damage.