Collin County Living Well Magazine Winter 2013 | Page 23

Key-Whitman Eye Center
Key-Whitman changes lives.

Accredited Dry Eye & Allergy Treatment Center

One of the most common
symptoms that seem to bring
patients to the eye doctor is dry
eyes. Dry eye syndrome varies from
minor, occassional discomfort to
frequent pain which can be
debilitating. Key-Whitman is an
Accredited Dry Eye Treatment Center and dedicated
to providing real solutions to minimize the symptoms
of dry eyes.

Treatment
There are many treatments available for dry
eye syndrome.

Causes
Essentially, dry eyes are caused by inadequate tear
production. Tears are formed of three components:
oil, water, and mucus. Some people either do not
make enough tears, or make tears that do not have the
correct balance. Environmental factors, like
temperature, humidity, and pollution, can cause dry
eyes, as can eyelid problems and certain medications.
Some diseases affect tear production as well, as does
the aging process.

Punctal Occlusion: Silicone or collagen plugs may
be inserted in order to prevent lubrication to drain
from the eyes.

Symptoms
Dry eye syndrome is often characterized by irritated,
stinging, scratchy eyes, but can also cause excessive
tearing. It can cause a feeling of grit in the eyes,
redness, and blurred vision. The condition can be
diagnosed easily and painlessly through a
comprehensive eye exam. It is also common to notice
fluctuations and changes in vision with dry eye.

Other eye drops may be recommended including
topical steroid drops which may be helpful.

Artificial Tears, Ointments and Supplements:
Available over the counter, artificial tears and
ointments are often the first line of defense. Our dry
eye specialist may also recommend the use of
vitamins and supplements which are carefully
formulated to provide real relief to dry eye sufferers.

Prescriptive Medications: Restasis® was approved
in 2002 and has been proven to treat the underlying
problem of inflammation which can cause dry eyes.
After several months, many patients using these
drops as prescribed have increased their own
tear production.

LipiFlow®: LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation technology
applies heat to the inner eyelids and gentle pressure,
releasing lipids from the Meibomian glands. The
procedure is fast, virtually painless, and takes place in
our office.
For many people, LipiFlow® means relief. LipiFlow®
treats the leading cause of Evaporative Dry Eye, not
just the symptoms.
The LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System is a
revolutionary way to treat Evaporative Dry Eye
caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).
Opening and clearing blocked glands allows the body
to resume the natural production of lipids (oils)
needed for the tear film. The result may eliminate the
uncomfortable symptoms associated with Evaporative
Dry Eye.