Changes in our bodies are inevitable as we get older, and the eyes are no exception. One of the most common issues older people experience is dry eye syndrome. This condition occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. It can cause discomfort, irritation, and even affect your vision.

Here’s what you need to know about dry eye syndrome and how we at TrueVision Center can treat it.

The Impact of Aging on Eye Health

Aging affects every part of the body, including the eyes. The natural aging process can lead to several changes that impact how your eyes function:

1. Decreased Tear Production
The glands responsible for producing tears become less effective. This reduction in tear production is a primary factor in the development of dry eye in older adults.

2. Changes in Tear Composition
The quality of the tears produced can also change with age. Tears are made up of water, oils, and mucus. An imbalance in these components can lead to faster evaporation, resulting in dry eye condition.

3. Increased Risk of Eye Infections
As tear production decreases, the eyes lose some of their natural defense mechanisms, making older adults more susceptible to infections, which can further exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

4. Medication Side Effects
Many older adults take medications for various age-related conditions. Some of these medications can reduce tear production, increasing the risk of developing dry eye syndrome.

Preventive Measures for Dry Eye in Older Adults

While aging is inevitable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing dry eye syndrome or to manage its symptoms effectively:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain overall moisture levels in your body, including your eyes. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your eyes hydrated.
  • Use a Humidifier: Dry indoor air can worsen dry eye symptoms. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, helping to keep your eyes from drying out, especially during sleep.
  • Take Frequent Breaks from Screens: Prolonged screen time can reduce blinking rates, leading to faster tear evaporation.
  • Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help supplement your natural tear production, providing relief from dry eye symptoms. However, it’s important to choose a preservative-free option to avoid further irritation.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

At TrueVision Center Hawaii, we understand that dry eye syndrome can significantly impact your quality of life. That’s why we offer comprehensive Dry Eye therapy specifically designed to address the unique needs of older adults.

Our approach is personalized: each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific condition and lifestyle. Here’s a closer look at our treatment options:

1. Prescription Eye Drops
For many patients, prescription eye drops are the first line of defense against dry eye conditions. These medications are more potent than over-the-counter options and are designed to address specific causes of dry eye:

  • Anti-inflammatory Drops: Inflammation of the tear glands can be a significant factor in dry eye syndrome. Anti-inflammatory eye drops help reduce this inflammation, allowing the glands to produce tears more effectively.
  • Tear-Stimulating Drops: For patients whose tear production has diminished with age, certain prescription drops can help stimulate the tear glands, encouraging the production of more natural tears.

2. Punctal Plugs
In cases where tears evaporate too quickly or drainage is excessive, punctal plugs may be an effective solution. These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to slow down the drainage of tears from the surface of the eye. By keeping more tears in your eyes for longer periods, punctal plugs can significantly alleviate the symptoms of dry eye, such as irritation and discomfort.

  • Temporary Plugs: These are often made of a material that dissolves over time, providing temporary relief as part of a diagnostic test to see if permanent plugs will be beneficial.
  • Permanent Plugs: Made from longer-lasting materials, permanent plugs are designed to provide sustained relief from dry eye symptoms. They can be easily removed if necessary.

3. Lid Hygiene and Management
Proper eyelid hygiene is crucial in managing dry eye in older adults, especially when inflammation or infection of the eyelids (blepharitis) is a contributing factor. Dr. Melanie Tantisira offers guidance on maintaining optimal eyelid hygiene to support tear production and overall eye health:

  • Daily Cleaning Routines: There are specific eyelid cleansers or wipes designed to remove debris, oil, and bacteria from the eyelids, which can block tear glands and exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
  • Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the eyes can help to open up the oil glands along the edge of the eyelids, promoting better tear film stability and reducing evaporation.
  • Nutritional Support: In some cases, dietary changes or supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, can improve gland function and reduce inflammation, supporting better tear quality.

By combining these practices with other treatments, Dr. Tantisira helps patients manage their symptoms more effectively, leading to improved comfort and eye health.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye or are concerned about how aging may be affecting your eye health, don’t wait to seek help. At TrueVision Center Hawaii, Dr. Melanie Tantisira is here to provide expert care and effective Dry Eye therapy. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you maintain healthy eyes as you age.