Dry Eye Treatment

Nowadays, due to prolonged exposure to digital screens, environmental factors, and aging, the need for dry eye treatment is gradually increasing. A decrease in the quality or quantity of the tear film, which provides moisture for the eyes, can cause serious discomfort. In this article, we cover all the details about dry eye treatment.

As Op. Dr. Diclehan also points out, this condition can be easily managed with early diagnosis and the right approach.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a condition that occurs when tears are not secreted sufficiently or when poor-quality tears are produced, resulting in inadequate moistening of the eye surface. This often leads to complaints such as stinging, burning, and a foreign body sensation in the eyes.

What Causes Dry Eye?

The factors that lead to dry eye are as follows

• Spending long hours in front of screens
• Exposure to air conditioning, wind, or cigarette smoke
• Advanced age
• Hormonal changes (especially menopause)
• Use of contact lenses
• Insufficient function of the tear glands
• Certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, etc.)

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that in the digital age, even young individuals increasingly require dry eye treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of Dry Eye?

The main symptoms requiring dry eye treatment are as follows

• Burning and stinging sensation in the eye
• Itching
• Redness of the eye
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Discomfort when using contact lenses
• Excessive tearing (as a paradoxical symptom)

These symptoms can significantly affect quality of life. Op. Dr. Diclehan highlights the importance of treating symptoms before they become chronic.

How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed?

The diagnostic process proceeds with the following methods:

Eye Examination

The ophthalmologist can diagnose by thoroughly examining the eyelids and the surface of the eye.

Tear Tests

• Schirmer Test: Used to measure tear quantity.
• Fluorescein Staining: Detects damage to the eye surface.

Meibomian Gland Evaluation

The condition of these glands, which produce the lipid layer of tears, is also critical in the diagnosis of dry eye.

Dry Eye Treatment Methods

Dry eye treatment can be carried out in several different ways. Op. Dr. Diclehan states that the most appropriate approach should be applied with a personalized plan.

1. Artificial Tears

This is the most commonly used method. It temporarily relieves tear deficiency.

• Preservative-free drops should be preferred.
• They can be applied several times a day.
• Gel forms can be used at night.

2. Medication

Medications that protect the eye surface and stimulate tear production include:

• Cyclosporine A drops
• Corticosteroid drops (short-term)
• Omega-3 supplements (natural support)

Op. Dr. Diclehan stresses that medications must always be used under medical supervision.

3. Lifestyle Changes

Dry eye treatment is not limited to medications alone. Avoiding environments and habits that dry out the eyes is also very important.

• Screen time should be limited
• Blinking frequency should be increased
• Avoid cigarette smoke and air-conditioned environments
• Keep the eye area moisturized

4. Tear Duct Plugs (Punctal Plugs)

In this method, small plugs are placed into the tear ducts, allowing tears to stay longer in the eyes. It is usually preferred in moderate to severe dry eye cases.

Op. Dr. Diclehan points out that plugs are removable, making them a safe option.

5. Light and Thermal Therapy (IPL, LipiFlow)

These methods, applied with new-generation devices:

• Improve tear quality
• Revitalize meibomian glands
• Reduce inflammation on the eye surface

They are particularly effective in chronic dry eye treatment.

The Importance of Nutrition in Dry Eye

For eye health, the following nutrients are recommended

• Omega-3 (fish, walnuts, flaxseed)
• Vitamin A (carrots, spinach)
• Vitamin E (almonds, sunflower seeds)
• Plenty of water consumption

Op. Dr. Diclehan notes that nutrition is an inseparable part of supportive treatment.

How Long Does Dry Eye Treatment Take?

The duration of treatment varies from person to person. While artificial tears alone may be sufficient for mild cases, device-assisted treatments may be necessary in advanced cases.

• Mild dry eye: relief within 1–2 weeks
• Moderate cases: 1–2 months
• Chronic cases: long-term, requiring regular follow-up

Dry eye treatment requires patience and consistent monitoring.

Complications of Dry Eye

If left untreated, the following outcomes may occur:

• Permanent damage to the eye surface
• Vision loss
• Increased risk of infection
• Impaired tolerance to contact lenses

Therefore, Op. Dr. Diclehan recommends consulting a doctor as soon as symptoms appear.

Tips for Coping with Dry Eye

• Conscious screen use
• Using a room humidifier
• Performing eye massage
• Resting the eyes every 20 minutes
• Keeping the environment humid while sleeping

All these steps play a supportive role in dry eye treatment.

Which Doctor to See for Dry Eye?

An Ophthalmologist should be consulted. An evaluation by an expert in this field, such as Op. Dr. Diclehan, guides patients toward the right treatment.

Dry Eye Should Not Be Neglected

Dry eye treatment is critically important for preserving eye health. Consulting a specialist doctor without delay when symptoms begin improves quality of life. Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that early intervention is effective in preserving the natural structure of the eye and underlines the importance of regular check-ups.