Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) is an eye problem that presents with itching, redness, burning, and/or irritation of the eye. It is one of the most common problems treated by Dr. Kalski. It is usually caused by the breakdown (or deficiency) in the tears that lubricate the eyes. Dry Eye Syndrome is also called keratitis sicca.
Dr. Kalski will most likely have patients with mild to moderate dry eyes use artificial tears as their first course of treatment. Depending on the nature of your tear film deficiency, Dr. Kalski may have you use a specific type of artificial tear that has different characteristics in terms of salt content and viscosity. In addition, Dr. Kalski may counsel you on environmental factors that need to be modified. Restasis, or cyclosporine eye drops, may be prescribed by Dr. Kalski to minimize the inflammatory component of your DES. Sometimes, if the oily layer of your tear film is deficient, you may be advised to increase your consumption of oily fish and flax seed oil. A homeopathic formulation rich in these and other dietary nutrients found to be helpful for treating DES is sold in our office at a minimal cost.
LACRIMAL/PUNCTAL PLUGS
Temporary collagen or hydrogel plugs or permanent silicone plugs can be inserted in the lacrimal (tear) drainage ducts in your eyelids to keep tears in your eye from draining away as quickly as normal. Dr. Kalski can quickly and painlessly insert plugs while you’re in his office. They are normally not felt once inserted.
