What Is Dry Eye and Why Does It Occur?
Dry eye occurs when the tear film becomes disrupted, preventing the eye from maintaining its necessary moisture and protective functions. This condition negatively affects eye health and causes symptoms such as burning, stinging, and vision disturbances.
Causes
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): Blockage of the oil glands in the eyelids increases tear evaporation.
- Environmental Factors: Dry air, air-conditioned environments, and prolonged screen use.
- Aging: Tear production decreases with age.
- Hormonal Changes: Especially during menopause, hormonal fluctuations contribute to dry eye.
- Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and certain blood pressure medications.
- Systemic Diseases: Conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome and diabetes increase the risk of dry eye.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
- Burning, stinging, and dryness in the eyes.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Eye fatigue and blurred vision.
- Redness and irritation in the eyes.
- Discomfort when wearing contact lenses.
Treatment Options for Dry Eye
Today, dry eye treatment is personalized based on the severity and underlying causes of the condition. In Turkey, innovative treatments such as Fotona Dry Eye Laser Treatment are available alongside traditional options.
1. Fotona Dry Eye Laser Treatment (Exclusively Performed by Yıldız Acar Ebcim in Turkey)
This groundbreaking technology utilizes the Fotona Laser System to treat dry eye at its source. It restores Meibomian gland function while reducing tear evaporation, offering a long-term solution.
Advantages:
- Targets the root cause of the problem.
- Quick and painless procedure.
- Provides long-lasting relief and permanent results.
2. Artificial Tears and Gels
These products help moisturize the eye surface and relieve symptoms in mild dry eye cases. However, they only provide temporary relief and do not address the underlying cause.
3. Heat and Massage Therapy (Lipiflow, IPL)
By applying heat to the Meibomian glands, this treatment helps clear blockages and improve oil secretion. Compared to Fotona technology, it is a more conventional method.
4. Punctal Plug Therapy
Small plugs are inserted into the tear ducts to keep tears on the eye surface longer, preventing excessive tear drainage.
5. Medication Therapy (Anti-inflammatory Drops and Medications)
Eye drops containing corticosteroids or immune modulators help reduce inflammation in the eyes.
6. Nutrition and Omega-3 Supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids support tear production and help alleviate symptoms of dry eye.
7. Surgical Interventions
In rare cases, surgical methods such as permanent closure of the tear ducts may be considered.
Why Choose Fotona Dry Eye Treatment?
- Exclusive to Turkey: This innovative technology is available only through Yıldız Acar Ebcim in Turkey.
- Long-Term Effect: It directly targets Meibomian glands, addressing the root cause of dry eye.
- Comfortable Procedure: The treatment is painless and quick, allowing patients to resume daily activities immediately.
Treatment Process and Aftercare
- Evaluation: Tear production, Meibomian gland function, and overall eye health are thoroughly assessed.
- Treatment Application: Fotona laser therapy or another suitable method is selected and applied.
- Post-Treatment Care: Patients are advised on eye hygiene and moisturization with recommended eye drops. Follow-up sessions may be scheduled if necessary.
Tips for Preventing Dry Eye
- Take regular breaks from screen use (20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
- Maintain eyelid hygiene and keep them clean.
- Use humidifiers to maintain moisture in your environment.
- Do not use eye drops without a doctor’s recommendation.
