Doctor I am from India, I am suffering from dry eye since one year and tried almost all major medicine and eye drops but it has not worked as expected, but when I tried ayurvedic medicine it's work like magic, please search about 'Mahatriphala Ghrit' and 'Anu Oil nasal drop' it is very helpful in Dry eye treatment, and any yoga for Vata Dosha also help in dry eye, I personally think Dry eye syndrome don't have any adequate treatment in allopathy, but Ayurveda really have very good treatment for It, please try to include it in modern medicine it will help a lot of patients
"approved by the FDA" oh. you mean the way they approved Valium? And Opioids? If you think we trust the FDA you missed out on the failure of regulation in the last couple decades thanks to Washington corruption.
wish more doctors would take the time to educate their patients. This is the best explanation of available treatments. Way better than all 10-11 specialist iv'e been too. Seems like the Dr.'s Iv'e been too are just rushing me in and out and I leave confused, lost and hopeless. Keep this coming!! Great job! This will help so many people to hopefully know what options are out there.
Thank you so much Brandon. I know, for even myself, clinic is a rush. We often don't have time to walk through every treatment option. Soon i will have a video going over what we do in our clinic to evaluate for dry eye vs other conditions and what I am thinking about through the eval process to make my recommendations. Thanks for the great comment.
After 3-4 years of dry eyes and an inability to find a solution to the problem compounded by the fact that my doctor could not correct my vision with glasses… I finally went the scleral contact route. I’ve got one more appointment for a final fitting, but so far I am very impressed. Most of the time I can’t even tell I’m wearing contacts and the vision correction is excellent. They don’t seem to be prone to irritation by dusty conditions like traditional hard contacts which is an added benefit. I can tell because of the size they may be a problem for some people, but I had 30 years of hard contact wearing experience, RK surgery and now a lengthy time with dealing with dry eyes and these contacts are definitely worth the extra effort putting them in and taking them out. They may not be for everyone suffering from dry eyes but I am one satisfied customer.
You have helped me in so many ways with my dry eyes, from advice about what eye drops to use, advice about contact lens technologies, advice about treatment and how the environment and sleep impacts dry eye. I’ve learned so much from you about many eye topics and I’m able to see better now than I was just a few months ago because of your channel and I appreciate it so much.
I just want to say I absolutely love your channel and have learned so much from you. I also tried with success some of your recommendations for my MGD. Thank you!
Fantastic video, thank you for all the information you offer. I have been suffering from severe irritation and dry eye and I am about to visit an ophthalmologist. The information you provide, will help me discuss treatment options. Thank you again!
These videos are outstanding. They encourage and help a PATIENT become their own best advocate. Learn, question and discuss. If your doctor doesnt want to talk about it or answer your questions....FIRE them and find a new one. Eye health isnt an exact science at times and it takes a patient being able to describe and discuss what they feel. Its harder to do than it sounds and it takes a good doctor to listen!!!!
@@DoctorEyeHealth doctors in the eye space should be learning from you. You are clearly the master of your craft tackling challenging problems with enthusiasm and confidence. A very regarded colleague of mine met you at a conference and spoke very highly of you and that brought me to your channel. Keep up the incredible work Doc, it helps us all…docs and patients both.
Thank you for all of the information on dry eye, I was recently diagnosed and currently on Restasis for treatment. I so miss wearing my contacts. I live in the desert Southwest and certain our dry environment has been a contributing factor. Since I'm new to this diagnosis, I am grateful for all the information you ptovided..
A video you did once on using warm eye compresses helped immensely because no one had explained the need to apply pressure. This video has a lot of helpful information and explanations. It’s telling that my main thought a few minutes in was I need to find a different doctor because mine blows off all questions/concerns even according to my husband recently. Thank you for providing very thorough and helpful information because some of us sadly aren’t getting it from anywhere else.
Amen to that I was being told that there is nothing I can do, just use eye drops etc. It was literally doctor to specialist to optometrist basically all of them sending me out to pasture but now I have some guidance and I'm actually seeing results
@@ross49452 Mine didn’t even suggest drops only said “maybe” take “any kind of fish oil supplement from the drug store” once a day Now I’m on the PRN omega, eye drops, warm compresses and doing the downward massage and along the lash line. I’ve lined up Lipiflow for after knee replacement surgery in January. My husband is going with me to keep repeating “it’s okay dear” after I’ve popped a Xanax bc I am so weirded out over having something in my eyes. The doctor got a huge laugh, usually leaves someone else in there but said he might clear time because it might be amusing to observe. I’ve watched videos on it but they don’t make me feel better.
Thank you so much for the information in this video!! I knew about some but a lot was new to me. I have severe dry eye in my left eye because of Bell’s palsy. I have used a scellaral lense in the eye in the past but now I have a gold eyelid weight. I have a plug in both the top and bottom tear duct. Right now this helping me enormously as I have to heal the surface of my cornea enough to cataract surgery next year. Again thank you for all you do!!!
Dr. Allen, this is the best compilation and explanation of dry eye treatments I've ever seen! Never has an opthalmologist or optometrist in my 40-year journey of debilitating, severe dry eye disease (RA and Sjogren's Syndrome and *no* tears at all) explained *anything* related to dry eyes with the thoroughness that you have. For me, the very best relief so far has come from scleral lenses; I'm beyond grateful that I was recently able to get them! Prior to those, punctal cauterization was somewhat helpful in allowing the artificial tears I used constantly (and still do when not wearing scleral lenses) to remain in my eyes a bit longer, and that brought a little relief to the almost unbearable discomfort I was in. Before getting scleral lenses, I'd tried every medication you mentioned, with zero success ( and some bad reactions). A word about autologous serum drops: my doc put me on them in 2009, with instructions only to keep them refrigerated (no time frame given). I got a raging infection from a bottle of these tears that had been in the fridge for one week, and experienced complete loss of sight in one eye for a month (the doc said he was glad he saved the eye itself), followed by very wonky and minimal vision due to the resultant corneal scarring. (An amniotic membrane was also placed during that time to help the eye heal.) Scleral lenses have been a miracle, enabling me to actually see with that eye, and bringing unprecedented comfort to both eyes while I'm wearing them. The lens fogging I initially experienced, quite severely, with these contacts has greatly improved as I'm working on improving my MGD (thanks to you!). I appreciate the tremendous service you're doing through your TH-cam channel, and am glad I found my way here. Thank you for all you do!
This comment made my night!!!! Thank you so much for your support and for watching the channel. That sucks to hear that you had a poor experience with the serum. Infections like that are awful. Scleral lenses do often help people a LOT, but fogging is often one of the most difficult things to overcome. Thanks again and wish you the best.
I just want to thank you for your very useful videos. I came across your channel a few months ago and it gave me hope for my situation. I was on Restasis for many years and had plugs. The Restasis did help but it was not optimal. Last march I found a new eye clinic nearby specialized in dry eye. I was diagnose with rosacae. I have IPL treatments and also had Lipiflow. The number of functioning glands tripled. It’s amazing! I still apply a warm mask and take Omega 3
I’m in the fortunate minority where my soft contact lenses help my dry eyes. I rarely need to use otc lubricating gel drops. Very informative video. Nice job.
Thank you. My eyes changed so much after a trip to Singapore last year. So hot over there back to cold at home. I seem to have so many of the problems you cover now (I'm 62(
I’ve suffered moderate/severe dry eyes for 11 years. Tried everything: microwave compresses, lipoflow, eye drops 10x per day, lid cleansers, fish oil, slew masks. Nothing has given me more than momentary relief. I wake up every single day with blood red eyes filled with mucus. I am fed up with this. I feel hopeless. Doing a 3 day water fast next weekend and hoping that helps. I’m all out of options.
Plugs are my "go to" therapy. Initially just used them over the colder weather. Switched to year round ones that dissolve out every few months. Also use cyclosporine, wash lids, compresses, vits and hi quality fish oil, commercial drops w/o preservatives and sleep with a humidifier by the bed Oct. to Mar. at room temp below 68. Not perfect, but generally workable. Wish you the best!
I have dry eye because of lupus. When I started taking restasis, it worked right away. The very next day I noticed a big difference. It was such a relief.
I always thought my eyes were just irritated, dry, red and swollen and didn’t even know it was a disease, because they were always like that even when I was a little kid. I started taking doxycycline for rosacea and wow, the change in my eyes was amazing! It made me realise that all along I was suffering from ocular rosacea/ MGD/ dry eye syndrome.
You can duplicate the functionality of the ITear100 with a Sonicare toothbrush. Place the side opposite the bristles against the outside of the nose and turn on. The Sonicare toothbrush vibration frequency is the same as the ITear100. It will take a little practice to find the "sweet spot" to stimulate the nerve, but you WILL know when you hit it. I use both Tyrvala and vibration. Both really help stimulate tear production.
Please do a vid on severe chronic dry eyes caused by Thyroid Eye Disease and any differences in treatments recommended. Thank you so much for your informative videos. I have learned a lot and not sure there would be any difference in treatment due to TED.
Hi dr Allen, I'm Australian and we have an excellent Medicare system which covers most eye issues. I have had many eye problems starting with high myopia from childhood. I had cataract removal with vision correction a few years ago and then, when finally i have great eyesight with no need for glasses, i get a detached retina. Through all this i have noticed increased dryness in the eyes which (for the moment) i control with Systane Ultra UD preservative-free drops. I have found them very soothing, i apply them 2 or 3 times a day. I have also recently found a lovely optometrist who talks to you and listens and finds ways to help you. I told him if i didn't find him i would have to fly to the US to come see you. He said he also watches you on yt!! Thank you so much for helping us with information and advice. We really appreciate you and the expertise and advice you bring us. THANK YOU. Edit : Systane Ultra UD preservative-free drops
Hello, I have an appointment coming up for my 👀 eyes, and I am going to mention some of theses things to my eye doctor. My dry-eye isn't that severe, but the over-the-counter drops just really don't seem to be working. Have a good one 😀
Hey thank you! There are few other treatment options that were not featured but for the most part I thought it was a pretty comprehensive review of what is offered at most dry eye specialty or medical eye clinics. Thanks so much for watching.
These are great videos, doc. Have you done a video on the topic of blinking, mgd and dry eye? Is it possible to blink or do eye exercises so that the lids are expressing or moving oil?
I am currently undergoing treatment for a corneal debridement surgery with the Prokera ambionic lens. Apparently they are supposed to be hugely helpful for people with dry eye issues, too! It's such an amazing treatment and I'm feeling good about it helping me heal better than other methods. About 1 day in so far and 4 days to go!
@@gailsimmons2439 I think it typically runs about $1,700 without insurance..I have a $1,500 deductible so I will likely max out my deductible, but I think it's worth it. Since it's medically necessary, it is covered under most insurance and covered under medical plans. This is good for me, since I don't have vision insurance, only medical. I'm in the northeast US - Lancaster, PA. Hope this helps!
Tried Retassis now trying Xiidra. I think Xiidra is working a bit better after almost 3 months. Of course have tried many, many eye drops. They all work for a short time. Doctor says being female, postmenopausal, & a long term contact lens wearer (had to give them up) makes the case for very dry eyes! Thanks for all your information on dry eyes. I figure one of these days something will work!
Thanks! Thank you for showing us how to pronounce Xiidra & showing such a wide range of treatments. Patient can drop then plug puncta with tissue/finger so less of the drop goes down the hatch ie less weird tasting...? Thanks for outlining time frames too. Autologous serum service is limited in Oz but Vital tears sounds interesting - but note special cool storage required & replacement of bottle needed! Does surgeon hospital coordinate with optometrist for amniotic membrane treatment??
Thank you for this video. There is so little online about treating severe dry eye (stage 3 and 4) and loads of information about how if not treated it can lead to corneal abrasions and blindness
Hi! May you please make a video on eye/eyelid issues and autoimmune diseases/eczema, etc.? Also a video on the eye/eyelid side effects of using Dupixent, if you are familiar with that medication's eye/eyelid side effects. Thanks!
The most frustrating element for me has been the drops I was prescribed (Restatis) were really only covering symptoms. The dermatologist then diagnosed ocular rosacea saying that’s the cause; prescribed oral antibiotics, which works well but upset digestion & one cannot live on them. So ultimately, I’d prefer to address improvement of basic health/natural treatments/prevention of flares/discover & address any other root causes of dry eye.
Have you tried treating demised mites with say yea tree oil products? Also in my case my facial and ocular rosacea improved a lot taking spearmint capsules.
Thank you for giving me some hope!! I have Sjogrens and have 4 punctal plugs. 2 permanent plugs and 2 temporary. I tried Restasis but find it burns. In fact most of the eye drops cequa burn. Including the new nasal spray burns back of my throat. I live in chronic pain. The plugs worked for a few months but then stopped working.
I am 58 and have MGD seemingly overnight. My eyelids are stuck to my eyeballs at 2AM and again at 5AM. I am doing the following: Systane Complete PF drops to get my eyes open, Maqui berry 1 tsp. in water daily, Algae based Omegas 2 x day (=600mg but I've heard that I need more), heat pack and pushing on eyelid margins before bed, Systane Complete, limited or no contact wearing and my latest intervention is 1 drop of Castor Oil- Cold Pressed, Hexane Free per night. I have also increased my nutritional efforts and am now putting Spirulina, Barley Grass Powder, Flaxseed Oil and Dolce in my morning smoothie. I am an avid cyclist (summer and winter fat biking) XC ski, hike, rock and ice climb. My life is my activity so now I'm searching for outdoor sunglasses that won't fog. I was on the Antibiotic drop for 4 weeks and it helped but since it's a steroid I cannot stay on it and am now back to inflammation. My doctor says that IPL works well but won't use it if you have been or will be in the sun. I am fair skinned and live in Alaska but travel a few times a year to hike and bike in Utah. She said that it leaves white spots on your skin or discolors your skin with white blotches. Is this true? I haven't heard this mentioned in any video. Can you show someones skin around the eyes before and after a treatment? Also, I haven't heard of any mention of side effects of medication. I am very careful with my body and prefer natural treatment, however, my MGD may evetually me to medication. I would want to know every single downside of medication and your videos don't mention this... kidney function can be impaired with Restasis? Please go into depth on body chemistry and affects of long term med use. Thank you so much! I am a retired teacher and can say that your teaching is EXCELLENT!
I have the most severe dry eye issues than any of my eye doctors have ever seen. I watched your video and am already on many of these things. I’m in the San Diego area. Do you ever do virtual consultations and could you recommend someone in my area? I think I’d be a good candidate for scleral lenses but I am beyond petrified. I have both daytime and nighttime Lagopthalmous. I already had dry eye before I developed that. I really need your help. Thank you
Thanks Dr, appreciate your videos and helping patients with their dry eye issues. 2022 released Systance complete preservative free emulsion seems to be the longest lasting drop ive found after literally trying them all. After a decade and ten's thousands of dollars spent, I found an overall routine that takes my unbearable dry eye to a 7/10 from a 1/10. Mind you I scored a 1ml on a shirmers test and my meioboim glands are half gone and the half were blocked. So I had no water layer or oil layer.Ill share my routine incase it helps someone in the comments. If you follow this routine you'll get an accumulated effect that gives you lasting relief. 1. Use polyvisc oinment before bed. Also use it in tiny amounts throughout the day. Dont put too much in the day or you'll obscure your vision. 2. Before bed do a heat compress that you microwave. I use "the eye doc" brand or bruener is good also. 10min of solid heat, you may have to microwave twice. 30 sec apply 5min then 10sec apply 5 min. Immediately after use the Nulids device which is an at home treatment that expresses your oil glands. Use some polyvisc on the tip to protect and lubricate before use. Nulids is quite pricey but well worth it if your an extreme case like I am. Pro tip- buy a tea infuser cage to put the used silicone tips in and boil them for 5 minutes to disinfect and resuse. Once the tips dry, store them in sterile container. Always wash hands before handling tips to avoid infection.The tips cost a fortune if you use them once and throw out like they recommend. (Dr may disagree with reusing tips, you can play it safe if you wish) After nulids do some manual expression too with clean hands. Using fingertips do small circles along lidline with gentle pressure. Then use make up remover pads with warm water to wipe your eyelashes OR if you have crusty eyelashes (blepharitis) you may benefit more by using ocusoft hypochlor acid spray on pads then wipe lashes. 3. Take krill oil supplements or better yet eat tuna or salmon 3x a week. Boost omega 3. 4. Use Systane complete preservative free during the day as needed. Its an emulsion which lasts long (mix of aqueous and oil). Best drop and Ive tried literally all other drops. NEVER USE DROPS WITH PRESERVATIVES. 5. Buy "Eye Eco onyix silicone hydrating sleep mask" moisture chamber goggles to wear while sleeping to keep your eyes moist while sleeping. Remember to put polyvisc in before putting goggles on. I've tried all sleep masks, this ones superior by far. 6. Avoid aircon or excessive heating which drys out the room. Outdoor high wind environments also. I recommend wearing 7eye sunglasses outdoors to protect from wind and create a moisture chamber. Game changer outdoors. 7. If cost isn't an issue, I recommend you do Lipiflow treatment every 6 months to properly unclog your oil glands. Then you maintain its effects by using the nulids device described above in point 2. In office treatment may cost 1-2k. 8. Position computer screens below your eye line so your looking down on them. Less eye exposed and less dry eye. Take breaks and do 20 complete blinks from time to time. 9.Avoid contact lense wear. I hope this helps someone out there suffering with severe dry eye. It's been a long painful journey for me 13 years or so but following the steps above I regained the ability to function.
Thank you for all the information it is so helpful. One thing I have going for me that I have excellent eyesight. I let you know about my dry-eye sight what success I will have. Thank you
Hello Doc, why are all the treatment focused on tears production and tear triggers when the problem is the ocular inflammation why is no treatment actually focusing in the root problem? Will there ever be a permanent actual treatment??
What a helpful overview! Could you address nighttime dryness? Gels, ointments, masks, etc.? I am suffering from corneal abrasions due to my lids sticking when I wake up. Thanks for any help you can give!
Wow I thought I was the only person suffering from this condition I was just Diagnosed with MGD but before then my eyes would get so dry when I wake up and open them they would Rip open old corneal scares worst pain ever so yes I would love info about gels,ointment and on the go eye drops for pain I heard Muro 128 drops are pretty good for corneal abrasion pain and the condition itself
I'm having the same issue. My eyelids stick even if I use dry eye drops right before I go to sleep. I wake up in the middle of the night feeling them start to get dry and stuck. I need to try an ointment or something but I don't know which one.
@@jp642 My ophthalmologist suggested Muro 128 ointment for me at nights it works better than nothing in the eyes at all I combo with eye night goggles I still have flare ups but not as often in the beginning I'm on path now where I need another type of meds or a whole different approach to this eye issue I'm in commercial Driving so when it happens it blurs my Left eye real bad it seems like Dr's really have no answer
I have used Systain and Refresh with castor oil.. In 2 months my dry eyes is Controlled.. I'm using these Eye drops until today.. I followed your advice and its great... Thank you Dr Allen...
Hi. I was diagnosed at 21 years old last year in January 2021 with dry eye disease. I was a chronic contact-wearer and had just started hormonal birth control like 2.5 months before. This was also like 10 months into my university going fully online and having to stare at my screen every day for months on end. I’ve had so many infections in the last 1.5 years, my cornea tore and is now scarred. I’ve tried warm compresses, artificial tears, refresh pm at night, eyelid scrubs, wear glasses only, have punctual plugs, and have been on xiidra. To be honest when I do the cocktail of treatment it really really works. But I’m 23, in college and not great at taking care of myself. I’ve been consistent with xiidra though and it’s helped immensely. Sometimes I feel really scared about the future because I feel pressure to get a job that will have good enough insurance to cover xiidra for the rest of my life as well as be able to purchase all these extra treatment things. I just want to reverse this and have normal eyes again :/ I just stopped hormonal birth control and I think I’ll try to work on reducing stress and screen time. I feel safe in the comments because I don’t know anyone else who has gone through this
I have dry eyes due to a chemical burn. Ointment at night had been an eye saver for a while. I don't think restasis did much for me. I think it made my eyes tear to much, especially at night and unless i slept on my side, the tears would get trapped in my eyelids and it was annoying. The tear duct plug was the worst, i think it inflamed my eye and my eye doctor was hesitant to take it out. I'm about to try a sclarel lense!
I've had severely dry eyes for decades, Sjogren's Syndrome since 1988. I use Restasis, Ilube, Hyloforte, HyloNight, HyloCare. In the past I've had Prednisolone drops, which did indeed cause cataracts. I'm currently waiting to see if I can be approved for the serum eye drops - in my case donor blood would be necessary as I have non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.. I've had numerous punctual plugs, all of which have fallen out, I've had cauterisation, the ducts reopened. I cannot see in direct sunlight. I am registered as partially sighted and have recently been diagnosed with dry age related macular degeneration. My eyes are painful.
Thank you for this video! It was super informative and definitely helpful for me (I have dry eyes that have recently flared more than normal). As a suggestion for other video content, I have a friend who has von Hippel-Lindau (VHL). She recently was referred to a VHL specialist who gave her a laundry list of doctors to see regularly, including an eye doctor. She didn't know VHL could cause cysts on the eyes and she went into her eye doctor appointment unsure of how it would go, if her eye doctor even did the right thing in terms of dilating vs imaging, etc. Would this be a topic you might be interested in looking in to and creating a video about?
Hey thank you! I appreciate all the video suggestions! I think VHL is a pretty specific disease and maybe something I can cover in a future video or livestream. Perhaps a video about systemic diseases that can affect the eyes.
Thank you so much for your videos, Dr. Allen. There’s really no one else out there putting out such accessible, understandable videos on such a variety of complex eye topics. Can you please make a video on trigeminal dysphoria & NeuralLenses? I’ve been an MGD patient for several years now, and have experienced vision-related frontal headaches for awhile that I struggled to find an explanation for, until I told my optometrist and was tested and diagnosed with this disorder, which apparently is responsible for my difficulty in handling my MGD/Dry eye the past few years. I previously had LipiFlow in late 2017, which brought me great relief for about 1-2 years, until my symptoms returned and worsened. Despite getting LipiFlow twice within the past few years, and regularly keeping up with my daily eyecare regimen (warm compresses, Xiidra, fish oil pills, etc.), I wasn’t experiencing the relief I had in 2018. Hopefully these NeuralLenses should help so that once I get LipiFlow again in a few months, I’ll be able to get real solid relief. I really hope. This ordeal has made me quite depressed. I think my story just serves your point of how each patient is different and has their own unique story/journey.
Hey thanks for the comment and sharing some of your story. I know a lot about the NeuralLenses but honestly have not tried them myself as they can be difficult to find sometimes. (the testing instrument can be expenses and so can the lenses). But I have spoken with the company to try and find a way where I may be able to travel and get some lenses made, it would be cool to review it or at least report on how it works and who it may help. Hope your symptoms get better soon!
Brilliant, thank you Dr Allen. Sjogrens x 36years, it has only recentlybeen recognised in the UK and many treatments in USA are not known or available, here as we are about 50 years behind you. I wish I could grow new lacrimal apparatus. Any attempts with stem cells?
My dry eyes began after Lasik 20 years ago. Now I'm back wearing glasses. My Opthalmologist just prescribed a regimen consisting of Pataday, Occusoft, Oust and Genteal. So far it seems to be working. Thanks!
I also have had dry eyes, even before Lasik (also 20 years ago). Now my myopia is back to -3 and I'm going to get a PRK procedure. It will probably increase the dryness. I'm also using Cequa and artificial tears
Oh my, that's quite a regimen. I'm very glad for you that you found something that works and would like to know in which order you use these things, not all of which I've heard of. Are they over the counter or do some need to be prescribed by an ophthalmologist? Thank you
I have one eye that is sandy and dry most of the time. My other eye is always excessively tearing. I can’t even wear eye makeup anymore. It is interfering with my every day life. I’m not totally convinced it’s dry eye. At least this video gives more options.
Thank you for the video. I have dry eyes since contracting Fibromyalgia and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. I was told it could be linked. If Fibro and CRPS are the root cause of the inflammation will the inflammation ever be treated? My Dry Eye specialist said I still have the same amount of inflammation in my eyes after 7 months even after following all the directions and medication prescribed by the Dry Eye Specialist and Doctor. Prescribed by doctor: I had my glands expressed 7 months ago. I use a warm mask twice a day followed by an eye massage. Then I clean my eyelids with a Tea tree eye cleanser. I used Xiidra for 5 months it was changed to Cequa 2 months ago.
I have Salzmann’s nodule on both eyes, along with MGD, and chronic dry eye. We’ve tried iLux (twice) - feels wonderful but doesn’t last as long as we’d like, restasis for 2 years, lotemax, and of course home eye drops (single use), warm compresses, eyelid cleansers, supplements (Hydroeye) and now I was diagnosed with Ocular Myasthenia Gravis. What treatment(s) do you recommend for the Salzmann’s nodules?
Thank you so much for your video, I learned a lot. I have damage from AK and ALK surgery years ago. My present Dr had me on Xiidra for many months. She saw improvement from the dry eye and she's now having me use the Serum Tears. She mentioned the contact thing but I hadn't known anything about it, this video has helped. She gave me an iVIZIA sample and I like it but I can barely squeeze it out of the 'thick' plastic bottle. It's Very hard for me. Any suggestions for that?
Thanks for this immensely useful video! Regarding Autologous Serum, why is it considered a last resort? Given the healing properties, shouldn't it be used as one of the first options, for severe dry eyes, since it's all a degenerative eye disease?
Great content, as usual. Thanks! You mentioned a product in another video, but I can’t find that content. EvoTears Hylo Lipid (I think that is the correct name) was the product. Could you direct me to the correct video? Thanks!
What Dry eye treatments have you tried and brought you the most success?
Systane ultra
Systane HYdration PF
Refresh gel drops at night
Doctor I am from India, I am suffering from dry eye since one year and tried almost all major medicine and eye drops but it has not worked as expected, but when I tried ayurvedic medicine it's work like magic, please search about 'Mahatriphala Ghrit' and 'Anu Oil nasal drop' it is very helpful in Dry eye treatment, and any yoga for Vata Dosha also help in dry eye, I personally think Dry eye syndrome don't have any adequate treatment in allopathy, but Ayurveda really have very good treatment for It, please try to include it in modern medicine it will help a lot of patients
"approved by the FDA"
oh. you mean the way they approved Valium? And Opioids?
If you think we trust the FDA you missed out on the failure of regulation in the last couple decades thanks to Washington corruption.
Organic cold pressed hexane free castor oil drops
wish more doctors would take the time to educate their patients. This is the best explanation of available treatments. Way better than all 10-11 specialist iv'e been too. Seems like the Dr.'s Iv'e been too are just rushing me in and out and I leave confused, lost and hopeless. Keep this coming!! Great job! This will help so many people to hopefully know what options are out there.
Thank you so much Brandon. I know, for even myself, clinic is a rush. We often don't have time to walk through every treatment option. Soon i will have a video going over what we do in our clinic to evaluate for dry eye vs other conditions and what I am thinking about through the eval process to make my recommendations. Thanks for the great comment.
Well said! You a TRULY a God Send, Thanks 🙏 so much
Definitely true!😊
Healthcare and insurance are a commodity now.
Agreed
After 3-4 years of dry eyes and an inability to find a solution to the problem compounded by the fact that my doctor could not correct my vision with glasses… I finally went the scleral contact route. I’ve got one more appointment for a final fitting, but so far I am very impressed. Most of the time I can’t even tell I’m wearing contacts and the vision correction is excellent. They don’t seem to be prone to irritation by dusty conditions like traditional hard contacts which is an added benefit. I can tell because of the size they may be a problem for some people, but I had 30 years of hard contact wearing experience, RK surgery and now a lengthy time with dealing with dry eyes and these contacts are definitely worth the extra effort putting them in and taking them out. They may not be for everyone suffering from dry eyes but I am one satisfied customer.
You have helped me in so many ways with my dry eyes, from advice about what eye drops to use, advice about contact lens technologies, advice about treatment and how the environment and sleep impacts dry eye. I’ve learned so much from you about many eye topics and I’m able to see better now than I was just a few months ago because of your channel and I appreciate it so much.
Wow thank you so much! This means so much to hear! I appreciate it Jesse! Please let me know what other topics you would love to know more about!
I just want to say I absolutely love your channel and have learned so much from you. I also tried with success some of your recommendations for my MGD. Thank you!
Fantastic video, thank you for all the information you offer. I have been suffering from severe irritation and dry eye and I am about to visit an ophthalmologist. The information you provide, will help me discuss treatment options. Thank you again!
Amen on your plug conclusion! Too many doctors plugged years ago and only made patients eyes worse over time.
These videos are outstanding. They encourage and help a PATIENT become their own best advocate. Learn, question and discuss. If your doctor doesnt want to talk about it or answer your questions....FIRE them and find a new one. Eye health isnt an exact science at times and it takes a patient being able to describe and discuss what they feel. Its harder to do than it sounds and it takes a good doctor to listen!!!!
Wow! Thank you! Yes, we all need to be better advocates for our own health.
@@DoctorEyeHealth doctors in the eye space should be learning from you. You are clearly the master of your craft tackling challenging problems with enthusiasm and confidence. A very regarded colleague of mine met you at a conference and spoke very highly of you and that brought me to your channel. Keep up the incredible work Doc, it helps us all…docs and patients both.
Insightful and thorough review! Congratulations! very useful information for both patients and eyecare professionals!
Thank you for all of the information on dry eye, I was recently diagnosed and currently on Restasis for treatment. I so miss wearing my contacts. I live in the desert Southwest and certain our dry environment has been a contributing factor. Since I'm new to this diagnosis, I am grateful for all the information you ptovided..
A video you did once on using warm eye compresses helped immensely because no one had explained the need to apply pressure. This video has a lot of helpful information and explanations. It’s telling that my main thought a few minutes in was I need to find a different doctor because mine blows off all questions/concerns even according to my husband recently. Thank you for providing very thorough and helpful information because some of us sadly aren’t getting it from anywhere else.
I agree , ive learned more from Dr Allen then any eye dr ive been to.
Amen to that I was being told that there is nothing I can do, just use eye drops etc. It was literally doctor to specialist to optometrist basically all of them sending me out to pasture but now I have some guidance and I'm actually seeing results
@@ross49452 Mine didn’t even suggest drops only said “maybe” take “any kind of fish oil supplement from the drug store” once a day Now I’m on the PRN omega, eye drops, warm compresses and doing the downward massage and along the lash line. I’ve lined up Lipiflow for after knee replacement surgery in January. My husband is going with me to keep repeating “it’s okay dear” after I’ve popped a Xanax bc I am so weirded out over having something in my eyes. The doctor got a huge laugh, usually leaves someone else in there but said he might clear time because it might be amusing to observe. I’ve watched videos on it but they don’t make me feel better.
Amazing content no one else has talked about!
Awesome video! Thank you for all you do to educate us!
Very information
Just what your viewers want and love you for!!!
Thank you so much for the information in this video!! I knew about some but a lot was new to me. I have severe dry eye in my left eye because of Bell’s palsy. I have used a scellaral lense in the eye in the past but now I have a gold eyelid weight. I have a plug in both the top and bottom tear duct. Right now this helping me enormously as I have to heal the surface of my cornea enough to cataract surgery next year. Again thank you for all you do!!!
My eyes never bothered me until I started using all of these eye drops.
I have experienced Xiidra, punctual plugs, and Lipiflow. I'm still dealing with dry eyes and inflammation, but it has improved as time has gone on.
Dr. Allen, this is the best compilation and explanation of dry eye treatments I've ever seen! Never has an opthalmologist or optometrist in my 40-year journey of debilitating, severe dry eye disease (RA and Sjogren's Syndrome and *no* tears at all) explained *anything* related to dry eyes with the thoroughness that you have.
For me, the very best relief so far has come from scleral lenses; I'm beyond grateful that I was recently able to get them! Prior to those, punctal cauterization was somewhat helpful in allowing the artificial tears I used constantly (and still do when not wearing scleral lenses) to remain in my eyes a bit longer, and that brought a little relief to the almost unbearable discomfort I was in.
Before getting scleral lenses, I'd tried every medication you mentioned, with zero success ( and some bad reactions). A word about autologous serum drops: my doc put me on them in 2009, with instructions only to keep them refrigerated (no time frame given). I got a raging infection from a bottle of these tears that had been in the fridge for one week, and experienced complete loss of sight in one eye for a month (the doc said he was glad he saved the eye itself), followed by very wonky and minimal vision due to the resultant corneal scarring. (An amniotic membrane was also placed during that time to help the eye heal.) Scleral lenses have been a miracle, enabling me to actually see with that eye, and bringing unprecedented comfort to both eyes while I'm wearing them. The lens fogging I initially experienced, quite severely, with these contacts has greatly improved as I'm working on improving my MGD (thanks to you!).
I appreciate the tremendous service you're doing through your TH-cam channel, and am glad I found my way here. Thank you for all you do!
This comment made my night!!!! Thank you so much for your support and for watching the channel. That sucks to hear that you had a poor experience with the serum. Infections like that are awful.
Scleral lenses do often help people a LOT, but fogging is often one of the most difficult things to overcome. Thanks again and wish you the best.
Thank you for talking about your experience with serum drops
thank you for sharing informative videos! you answered my uncertainties. helps a lot!
I just want to thank you for your very useful videos. I came across your channel a few months ago and it gave me hope for my situation. I was on Restasis for many years and had plugs. The Restasis did help but it was not optimal. Last march I found a new eye clinic nearby specialized in dry eye. I was diagnose with rosacae. I have IPL treatments and also had Lipiflow. The number of functioning glands tripled. It’s amazing! I still apply a warm mask and take Omega 3
Thank Dr.Alen. for awsome explanation on Dry eye.I've learned a lot from your videos.
I always liked it when you put the medical terms for diseases in a small text caption too. Tiny tidbit I suppose but I always appreciated seeing it.
Noted! Thank you good sir!
Flare ups? 🤔 Many dry eye sufferers always have a symptome in their eyes that never goes away.
I’m in the fortunate minority where my soft contact lenses help my dry eyes. I rarely need to use otc lubricating gel drops. Very informative video. Nice job.
Thank you. My eyes changed so much after a trip to Singapore last year. So hot over there back to cold at home. I seem to have so many of the problems you cover now (I'm 62(
Excellent and informative video! Thank you!!
One of your best videos!
Great video and a lot of information ☺️
Keep making these videos Please
I’ve suffered moderate/severe dry eyes for 11 years. Tried everything: microwave compresses, lipoflow, eye drops 10x per day, lid cleansers, fish oil, slew masks. Nothing has given me more than momentary relief. I wake up every single day with blood red eyes filled with mucus. I am fed up with this. I feel hopeless. Doing a 3 day water fast next weekend and hoping that helps. I’m all out of options.
How did the water fast work for you? My partner suffers a lot from dry eye and Im trying to help her
Did water fast work?
Try castor oil!!!
Try Manuka Honey.
Plugs are my "go to" therapy. Initially just used them over the colder weather. Switched to year round ones that dissolve out every few months. Also use cyclosporine, wash lids, compresses, vits and hi quality fish oil, commercial drops w/o preservatives and sleep with a humidifier by the bed Oct. to Mar. at room temp below 68. Not perfect, but generally workable. Wish you the best!
Thank you so much for all this information-my Ophthalmologist has never mentioned anything about these.
Glad it was helpful!
You are amazing! So grateful!
I have dry eye because of lupus. When I started taking restasis, it worked right away. The very next day I noticed a big difference. It was such a relief.
Great info! Thanks 🤓
Awesome information!!
Wow! Very informative!
So informative, do you have any ideas for blephoritis? Thanks
I always thought my eyes were just irritated, dry, red and swollen and didn’t even know it was a disease, because they were always like that even when I was a little kid. I started taking doxycycline for rosacea and wow, the change in my eyes was amazing! It made me realise that all along I was suffering from ocular rosacea/ MGD/ dry eye syndrome.
You can duplicate the functionality of the ITear100 with a Sonicare toothbrush. Place the side opposite the bristles against the outside of the nose and turn on. The Sonicare toothbrush vibration frequency is the same as the ITear100. It will take a little practice to find the "sweet spot" to stimulate the nerve, but you WILL know when you hit it. I use both Tyrvala and vibration. Both really help stimulate tear production.
Please do a vid on severe chronic dry eyes caused by Thyroid Eye Disease and any differences in treatments recommended. Thank you so much for your informative videos. I have learned a lot and not sure there would be any difference in treatment due to TED.
Hi dr Allen, I'm Australian and we have an excellent Medicare system which covers most eye issues. I have had many eye problems starting with high myopia from childhood. I had cataract removal with vision correction a few years ago and then, when finally i have great eyesight with no need for glasses, i get a detached retina. Through all this i have noticed increased dryness in the eyes which (for the moment) i control with Systane Ultra UD preservative-free drops. I have found them very soothing, i apply them 2 or 3 times a day. I have also recently found a lovely optometrist who talks to you and listens and finds ways to help you. I told him if i didn't find him i would have to fly to the US to come see you. He said he also watches you on yt!! Thank you so much for helping us with information and advice. We really appreciate you and the expertise and advice you bring us. THANK YOU.
Edit : Systane Ultra UD preservative-free drops
What state are you in? I need to find this optometrist lol
Me too!
Dr.Allen, Thanks for these in-depth information. I have the plugs. CN these be removed? My eyes remain very irritated most of the time. Thank you!
Hello, I have an appointment coming up for my 👀 eyes, and I am going to mention some of theses things to my eye doctor. My dry-eye isn't that severe, but the over-the-counter drops just really don't seem to be working. Have a good one 😀
He’s amazing. Thanks for the info doctor. Everything he said I kind of knew already. But I like to learn more about dry eye syndrome.
Hey thank you! There are few other treatment options that were not featured but for the most part I thought it was a pretty comprehensive review of what is offered at most dry eye specialty or medical eye clinics. Thanks so much for watching.
Very interesting! Thank you.
These are great videos, doc. Have you done a video on the topic of blinking, mgd and dry eye? Is it possible to blink or do eye exercises so that the lids are expressing or moving oil?
Amazing video!!!!!!!
Restasis is so expensive. Even if I need it, I couldn't afford it.
Thank you for another very informative video.
What is the cause for scaring because my doctor said that I have a a little scar tissue? Appreciate your reply thank you!
@doctor eye health
Your videos are very helpful love to watch
Thank you so much!
So very informative. I didn’t realize I have to use my Restatis every day. I was just using when my eyes were bothering me.
Seriously?? Did you read the directions???
Hi! I just have to say, my maiden name is Biel. I noticed the chart on your wall has Biel at the top of it! So cool!
Hi Doc, what would you diagnose in case of foamy tear film/bubbles in the tear film? No visible MGD or meibomian atrophy, and FBUT of 15-20 seconds.
I am currently undergoing treatment for a corneal debridement surgery with the Prokera ambionic lens. Apparently they are supposed to be hugely helpful for people with dry eye issues, too! It's such an amazing treatment and I'm feeling good about it helping me heal better than other methods. About 1 day in so far and 4 days to go!
This sounds really good. I want to ask how much is it costing you? What part of the country you're located in?
@@gailsimmons2439 I think it typically runs about $1,700 without insurance..I have a $1,500 deductible so I will likely max out my deductible, but I think it's worth it. Since it's medically necessary, it is covered under most insurance and covered under medical plans. This is good for me, since I don't have vision insurance, only medical. I'm in the northeast US - Lancaster, PA. Hope this helps!
Did it work ?@@ninaj84
Good review.
I learned so much!
Tried Retassis now trying Xiidra. I think Xiidra is working a bit better after almost 3 months. Of course have tried many, many eye drops. They all work for a short time. Doctor says being female, postmenopausal, & a long term contact lens wearer (had to give them up) makes the case for very dry eyes! Thanks for all your information on dry eyes. I figure one of these days something will work!
I’ve been on xiidra for like 1.5 years now. It still works really well thankfully. I just want to solve the root issue :/
Thanks! Thank you for showing us how to pronounce Xiidra & showing such a wide range of treatments. Patient can drop then plug puncta with tissue/finger so less of the drop goes down the hatch ie less weird tasting...? Thanks for outlining time frames too. Autologous serum service is limited in Oz but Vital tears sounds interesting - but note special cool storage required & replacement of bottle needed! Does surgeon hospital coordinate with optometrist for amniotic membrane treatment??
Thank you for this video. There is so little online about treating severe dry eye (stage 3 and 4) and loads of information about how if not treated it can lead to corneal abrasions and blindness
Thank you Bianca! That means a lot. Glad I can help.
Hi! May you please make a video on eye/eyelid issues and autoimmune diseases/eczema, etc.? Also a video on the eye/eyelid side effects of using Dupixent, if you are familiar with that medication's eye/eyelid side effects. Thanks!
The most frustrating element for me has been the drops I was prescribed (Restatis) were really only covering symptoms. The dermatologist then diagnosed ocular rosacea saying that’s the cause; prescribed oral antibiotics, which works well but upset digestion & one cannot live on them. So ultimately, I’d prefer to address improvement of basic health/natural treatments/prevention of flares/discover & address any other root causes of dry eye.
Have you tried treating demised mites with say yea tree oil products? Also in my case my facial and ocular rosacea improved a lot taking spearmint capsules.
Thank you for giving me some hope!! I have Sjogrens and have 4 punctal plugs. 2 permanent plugs and 2 temporary. I tried Restasis but find it burns. In fact most of the eye drops cequa burn. Including the new nasal spray burns back of my throat. I live in chronic pain. The plugs worked for a few months but then stopped working.
I am 58 and have MGD seemingly overnight. My eyelids are stuck to my eyeballs at 2AM and again at 5AM. I am doing the following: Systane Complete PF drops to get my eyes open, Maqui berry 1 tsp. in water daily, Algae based Omegas 2 x day (=600mg but I've heard that I need more), heat pack and pushing on eyelid margins before bed, Systane Complete, limited or no contact wearing and my latest intervention is 1 drop of Castor Oil- Cold Pressed, Hexane Free per night. I have also increased my nutritional efforts and am now putting Spirulina, Barley Grass Powder, Flaxseed Oil and Dolce in my morning smoothie.
I am an avid cyclist (summer and winter fat biking) XC ski, hike, rock and ice climb. My life is my activity so now I'm searching for outdoor sunglasses that won't fog.
I was on the Antibiotic drop for 4 weeks and it helped but since it's a steroid I cannot stay on it and am now back to inflammation.
My doctor says that IPL works well but won't use it if you have been or will be in the sun. I am fair skinned and live in Alaska but travel a few times a year to hike and bike in Utah. She said that it leaves white spots on your skin or discolors your skin with white blotches. Is this true? I haven't heard this mentioned in any video. Can you show someones skin around the eyes before and after a treatment?
Also, I haven't heard of any mention of side effects of medication. I am very careful with my body and prefer natural treatment, however, my MGD may evetually me to medication. I would want to know every single downside of medication and your videos don't mention this... kidney function can be impaired with Restasis? Please go into depth on body chemistry and affects of long term med use. Thank you so much! I am a retired teacher and can say that your teaching is EXCELLENT!
YES,,,I've used active fusion drops I'm using whole day
I have the most severe dry eye issues than any of my eye doctors have ever seen. I watched your video and am already on many of these things. I’m in the San Diego area. Do you ever do virtual consultations and could you recommend someone in my area? I think I’d be a good candidate for scleral lenses but I am beyond petrified. I have both daytime and nighttime Lagopthalmous. I already had dry eye before I developed that. I really need your help. Thank you
Thanks Dr, appreciate your videos and helping patients with their dry eye issues.
2022 released Systance complete preservative free emulsion seems to be the longest lasting drop ive found after literally trying them all.
After a decade and ten's thousands of dollars spent, I found an overall routine that takes my unbearable dry eye to a 7/10 from a 1/10. Mind you I scored a 1ml on a shirmers test and my meioboim glands are half gone and the half were blocked. So I had no water layer or oil layer.Ill share my routine incase it helps someone in the comments. If you follow this routine you'll get an accumulated effect that gives you lasting relief.
1. Use polyvisc oinment before bed. Also use it in tiny amounts throughout the day. Dont put too much in the day or you'll obscure your vision.
2. Before bed do a heat compress that you microwave. I use "the eye doc" brand or bruener is good also. 10min of solid heat, you may have to microwave twice. 30 sec apply 5min then 10sec apply 5 min.
Immediately after use the Nulids device which is an at home treatment that expresses your oil glands. Use some polyvisc on the tip to protect and lubricate before use. Nulids is quite pricey but well worth it if your an extreme case like I am. Pro tip- buy a tea infuser cage to put the used silicone tips in and boil them for 5 minutes to disinfect and resuse. Once the tips dry, store them in sterile container. Always wash hands before handling tips to avoid infection.The tips cost a fortune if you use them once and throw out like they recommend. (Dr may disagree with reusing tips, you can play it safe if you wish)
After nulids do some manual expression too with clean hands. Using fingertips do small circles along lidline with gentle pressure.
Then use make up remover pads with warm water to wipe your eyelashes OR if you have crusty eyelashes (blepharitis) you may benefit more by using ocusoft hypochlor acid spray on pads then wipe lashes.
3. Take krill oil supplements or better yet eat tuna or salmon 3x a week. Boost omega 3.
4. Use Systane complete preservative free during the day as needed. Its an emulsion which lasts long (mix of aqueous and oil). Best drop and Ive tried literally all other drops. NEVER USE DROPS WITH PRESERVATIVES.
5. Buy "Eye Eco onyix silicone hydrating sleep mask" moisture chamber goggles to wear while sleeping to keep your eyes moist while sleeping. Remember to put polyvisc in before putting goggles on. I've tried all sleep masks, this ones superior by far.
6. Avoid aircon or excessive heating which drys out the room. Outdoor high wind environments also.
I recommend wearing 7eye sunglasses outdoors to protect from wind and create a moisture chamber. Game changer outdoors.
7. If cost isn't an issue, I recommend you do Lipiflow treatment every 6 months to properly unclog your oil glands. Then you maintain its effects by using the nulids device described above in point 2. In office treatment may cost 1-2k.
8. Position computer screens below your eye line so your looking down on them. Less eye exposed and less dry eye. Take breaks and do 20 complete blinks from time to time.
9.Avoid contact lense wear.
I hope this helps someone out there suffering with severe dry eye. It's been a long painful journey for me 13 years or so but following the steps above I regained the ability to function.
Thank you! Do you find that the 7 Eyeglasses fog badly? I'm a cyclist and xc skier and looking for glasses that won't fog.
Thanks so much for sharing. 😊
thanks brah❤
Thanks
Thank you!
Thank you for all the information it is so helpful. One thing I have going for me that I have excellent eyesight. I let you know about my dry-eye sight what success I will have. Thank you
I did used the Autologous Serum and back them I paid $100 for 4 bottles they did work
Do you have a video on proper drop application?
Hello Doc, why are all the treatment focused on tears production and tear triggers when the problem is the ocular inflammation why is no treatment actually focusing in the root problem? Will there ever be a permanent actual treatment??
Really helpfull. Thank for sharing
What a helpful overview! Could you address nighttime dryness? Gels, ointments, masks, etc.? I am suffering from corneal abrasions due to my lids sticking when I wake up. Thanks for any help you can give!
Wow I thought I was the only person suffering from this condition I was just Diagnosed with MGD but before then my eyes would get so dry when I wake up and open them they would Rip open old corneal scares worst pain ever so yes I would love info about gels,ointment and on the go eye drops for pain I heard Muro 128 drops are pretty good for corneal abrasion pain and the condition itself
I'm having the same issue. My eyelids stick even if I use dry eye drops right before I go to sleep. I wake up in the middle of the night feeling them start to get dry and stuck. I need to try an ointment or something but I don't know which one.
@@jp642 My ophthalmologist suggested Muro 128 ointment for me at nights it works better than nothing in the eyes at all I combo with eye night goggles I still have flare ups but not as often in the beginning I'm on path now where I need another type of meds or a whole different approach to this eye issue I'm in commercial Driving so when it happens it blurs my Left eye real bad it seems like Dr's really have no answer
I have used Systain and Refresh with castor oil.. In 2 months my dry eyes is Controlled.. I'm using these Eye drops until today.. I followed your advice and its great... Thank you Dr Allen...
Is Refresh castor oil called Refresh Advanced?
Hi. I was diagnosed at 21 years old last year in January 2021 with dry eye disease. I was a chronic contact-wearer and had just started hormonal birth control like 2.5 months before. This was also like 10 months into my university going fully online and having to stare at my screen every day for months on end.
I’ve had so many infections in the last 1.5 years, my cornea tore and is now scarred. I’ve tried warm compresses, artificial tears, refresh pm at night, eyelid scrubs, wear glasses only, have punctual plugs, and have been on xiidra. To be honest when I do the cocktail of treatment it really really works. But I’m 23, in college and not great at taking care of myself. I’ve been consistent with xiidra though and it’s helped immensely.
Sometimes I feel really scared about the future because I feel pressure to get a job that will have good enough insurance to cover xiidra for the rest of my life as well as be able to purchase all these extra treatment things. I just want to reverse this and have normal eyes again :/ I just stopped hormonal birth control and I think I’ll try to work on reducing stress and screen time. I feel safe in the comments because I don’t know anyone else who has gone through this
No advice really but good luck I hope your situation improves
Did it help?
I have dry eyes due to a chemical burn. Ointment at night had been an eye saver for a while. I don't think restasis did much for me. I think it made my eyes tear to much, especially at night and unless i slept on my side, the tears would get trapped in my eyelids and it was annoying. The tear duct plug was the worst, i think it inflamed my eye and my eye doctor was hesitant to take it out. I'm about to try a sclarel lense!
I've had severely dry eyes for decades, Sjogren's Syndrome since 1988. I use Restasis, Ilube, Hyloforte, HyloNight, HyloCare. In the past I've had Prednisolone drops, which did indeed cause cataracts. I'm currently waiting to see if I can be approved for the serum eye drops - in my case donor blood would be necessary as I have non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.. I've had numerous punctual plugs, all of which have fallen out, I've had cauterisation, the ducts reopened. I cannot see in direct sunlight. I am registered as partially sighted and have recently been diagnosed with dry age related macular degeneration. My eyes are painful.
Thank you for this video! It was super informative and definitely helpful for me (I have dry eyes that have recently flared more than normal).
As a suggestion for other video content, I have a friend who has von Hippel-Lindau (VHL). She recently was referred to a VHL specialist who gave her a laundry list of doctors to see regularly, including an eye doctor. She didn't know VHL could cause cysts on the eyes and she went into her eye doctor appointment unsure of how it would go, if her eye doctor even did the right thing in terms of dilating vs imaging, etc. Would this be a topic you might be interested in looking in to and creating a video about?
Hey thank you! I appreciate all the video suggestions! I think VHL is a pretty specific disease and maybe something I can cover in a future video or livestream. Perhaps a video about systemic diseases that can affect the eyes.
Yay! Autologous Serum Drops!!!! Worth the cost.
Thank you so much for your videos, Dr. Allen. There’s really no one else out there putting out such accessible, understandable videos on such a variety of complex eye topics.
Can you please make a video on trigeminal dysphoria & NeuralLenses?
I’ve been an MGD patient for several years now, and have experienced vision-related frontal headaches for awhile that I struggled to find an explanation for, until I told my optometrist and was tested and diagnosed with this disorder, which apparently is responsible for my difficulty in handling my MGD/Dry eye the past few years. I previously had LipiFlow in late 2017, which brought me great relief for about 1-2 years, until my symptoms returned and worsened. Despite getting LipiFlow twice within the past few years, and regularly keeping up with my daily eyecare regimen (warm compresses, Xiidra, fish oil pills, etc.), I wasn’t experiencing the relief I had in 2018. Hopefully these NeuralLenses should help so that once I get LipiFlow again in a few months, I’ll be able to get real solid relief. I really hope. This ordeal has made me quite depressed. I think my story just serves your point of how each patient is different and has their own unique story/journey.
Hey thanks for the comment and sharing some of your story. I know a lot about the NeuralLenses but honestly have not tried them myself as they can be difficult to find sometimes. (the testing instrument can be expenses and so can the lenses). But I have spoken with the company to try and find a way where I may be able to travel and get some lenses made, it would be cool to review it or at least report on how it works and who it may help.
Hope your symptoms get better soon!
Brilliant, thank you Dr Allen. Sjogrens x 36years, it has only recentlybeen recognised in the UK and many treatments in USA are not known or available, here as we are about 50 years behind you. I wish I could grow new lacrimal apparatus. Any attempts with stem cells?
My dry eyes began after Lasik 20 years ago. Now I'm back wearing glasses. My Opthalmologist just prescribed a regimen consisting of Pataday, Occusoft, Oust and Genteal. So far it seems to be working. Thanks!
I should do a video just about dry eye tips after LASIK. Seems a lot of people have this issue
I also have had dry eyes, even before Lasik (also 20 years ago). Now my myopia is back to -3 and I'm going to get a PRK procedure. It will probably increase the dryness. I'm also using Cequa and artificial tears
@@DoctorEyeHealth absolutely, please do.
Oh my, that's quite a regimen. I'm very glad for you that you found something that works and would like to know in which order you use these things, not all of which I've heard of. Are they over the counter or do some need to be prescribed by an ophthalmologist? Thank you
@@DoctorEyeHealth yes that would be great!!
I have one eye that is sandy and dry most of the time. My other eye is always excessively tearing. I can’t even wear eye makeup anymore. It is interfering with my every day life. I’m not totally convinced it’s dry eye. At least this video gives more options.
ThankYou Doctor
woow i'm impressed with the loads of information contained in this single video. Thanks Dr. Allen I wish you could coach me
Thank you for the video. I have dry eyes since contracting Fibromyalgia and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. I was told it could be linked. If Fibro and CRPS are the root cause of the inflammation will the inflammation ever be treated? My Dry Eye specialist said I still have the same amount of inflammation in my eyes after 7 months even after following all the directions and medication prescribed by the Dry Eye Specialist and Doctor.
Prescribed by doctor:
I had my glands expressed 7 months ago.
I use a warm mask twice a day followed by an eye massage. Then I clean my eyelids with a Tea tree eye cleanser.
I used Xiidra for 5 months it was changed to Cequa 2 months ago.
Thank you for this informative video.
Will you prescribe laser surgery for someone with dry eyes?
i was done in my initial stage 14 yrs back
Can u pls make a vedio about progressive optic nerve atrophy and the treatment pls
Thank you so much
Hycosan extra.It is preservative free and also once open you can use for 6 months.
I've tried ziidra, am using restaisis, tyrvaya, hot compresses, occusoft scrub, retain drops
Doctor Please explain last stage of dry eyes
I have Salzmann’s nodule on both eyes, along with MGD, and chronic dry eye. We’ve tried iLux (twice) - feels wonderful but doesn’t last as long as we’d like, restasis for 2 years, lotemax, and of course home eye drops (single use), warm compresses, eyelid cleansers, supplements (Hydroeye) and now I was diagnosed with Ocular Myasthenia Gravis. What treatment(s) do you recommend for the Salzmann’s nodules?
Thankyou❤
is there any therapies being researched for mgd to get the glands to come back ?
Thank you so much for your video, I learned a lot. I have damage from AK and ALK surgery years ago. My present Dr had me on Xiidra for many months. She saw improvement from the dry eye and she's now having me use the Serum Tears. She mentioned the contact thing but I hadn't known anything about it, this video has helped. She gave me an iVIZIA sample and I like it but I can barely squeeze it out of the 'thick' plastic bottle. It's Very hard for me. Any suggestions for that?
Good day, what are the symptoms of dry eyes?
Hello doctor.
Using the serum has a couple obstacles. You can not carry the serum drops because they must be stored in a refrigerator and stored frozen.
Thanks for this immensely useful video! Regarding Autologous Serum, why is it considered a last resort? Given the healing properties, shouldn't it be used as one of the first options, for severe dry eyes, since it's all a degenerative eye disease?
Great content, as usual. Thanks! You mentioned a product in another video, but I can’t find that content. EvoTears Hylo Lipid (I think that is the correct name) was the product. Could you direct me to the correct video? Thanks!