Severe Dry Eyes Treatment - Dry Eyes Treatment Guide

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

What Dry eye treatments have you tried and brought you the most success?

[@asimmoon53]

Systane ultra

[@Docazbiba]

Systane HYdration PF Refresh gel drops at night

[@max-cs9ko]

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

[@QuizmasterLaw]

"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.

[@smooth_pursuit]

Organic cold pressed hexane free castor oil drops

[@Kongstrong519]

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.

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

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.

[@denathompson104]

Well said! You a TRULY a God Send, Thanks 🙏 so much

[@susanmoore6382]

Definitely true!😊

[@jayrowe6473]

Healthcare and insurance are a commodity now.

[@perfectlycreated8863]

Agreed

[@fortyfour6626]

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]

Wow! Thank you! Yes, we all need to be better advocates for our own health.

[@fortyfour6626]

@@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.

[@Applecore365]

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.

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

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!

[@ln1058]

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 KZbin channel, and am glad I found my way here. Thank you for all you do!

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

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.

[@mrs.b6420]

Thank you for talking about your experience with serum drops

[@goskaterightnow]

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.

[@neonpop80]

How did the water fast work for you? My partner suffers a lot from dry eye and Im trying to help her

[@Sarica535]

Did water fast work?

[@Matt-cn3uk]

Try castor oil!!!

[@moviesfan5513]

Try Manuka Honey.

[@barbarah5742]

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!

[@clind6682]

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.

[@barbnbirds]

I agree , ive learned more from Dr Allen then any eye dr ive been to.

[@ross49452]

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

[@clind6682]

@@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.

[@judigullett9060]

Restasis is so expensive. Even if I need it, I couldn't afford it.

[@julieprieto2209]

Flare ups? 🤔 Many dry eye sufferers always have a symptome in their eyes that never goes away.

[@rtkracht]

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.

[@user-xy4ff5yp7b]

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.

[@Vardaman]

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

[@cleocatra9324]

No advice really but good luck I hope your situation improves

[@axiomaticidioms3857]

Did it help?

[@BlackBeltGamers88]

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.

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

Noted! Thank you good sir!

[@nalathekitty2433]

I did used the Autologous Serum and back them I paid $100 for 4 bottles they did work

[@AbdurRahman-ml7lz]

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??

[@wsportsworld4274]

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.

[@snowbike8032]

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.

[@susanmoore6382]

Thanks so much for sharing. 😊

[@11jan23]

thanks brah❤

[@eechaze12]

Thanks

[@Charbel1]

Thank you!

[@kshitijjagdale575]

Hello doc,In my case i faced severe dry eyes since last year,till then i was using only eye drops but now i started with hot compresses and it has changed my life ,it has really been very effective .

[@emptyspace9619]

What could be the cause for your dry eyes, Jagdale bhau?

[@aryashah1890]

Hey did you get this dry eye problem post lasik like me?

[@kshitijjagdale575]

@@emptyspace9619 i spent 15+ hours on desktop working,but now i am going good

[@kshitijjagdale575]

@@aryashah1890 i got dryness natuarally,so i feared getting lasik,so just skipped that shit

[@noeladcock]

How often do you apply them? My dry eye syndrome is quite severe but I just can’t seem to stop several times a day to apply the compresses so I don’t know how effective they would be. And the hot compresses do not stay warm but just a few minutes. Do you use the gel packs that you microwave?

[@MegaJasonic]

Amen on your plug conclusion! Too many doctors plugged years ago and only made patients eyes worse over time.

[@ninaj84]

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]

This sounds really good. I want to ask how much is it costing you? What part of the country you're located in?

[@ninaj84]

@@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!

[@rafaelmateus1489]

Did it work ?​@@ninaj84

[@outbackwack368]

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!

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

I should do a video just about dry eye tips after LASIK. Seems a lot of people have this issue

[@ytsux9259]

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

[@John_Hudson_922]

@@DoctorEyeHealth absolutely, please do.

[@sballantine8127]

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

[@K.n.o.x.]

@@DoctorEyeHealth yes that would be great!!

[@MildredRHolmes]

Hello. Saw my eye Doc yesterday for dry eye. She was explaining abut plugs and she asked if I knew what they were. I nodded and told her "Iwatch Dr. Eye Health." She was vrey relieved, mumbled "Thank you Doctor..." and explained options I had. Your advice helped me to understand and take an active part in my treatment plan. Thought you'd like to know.

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

This makes my day!!! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@MickisMom]

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.

[@austinmeehan3522]

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.

[@franzordonio5784]

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...

[@healthylife4eva]

Is Refresh castor oil called Refresh Advanced?

[@jaynematthews5430]

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..

[@pambulama973]

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(

[@snowbike8032]

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!

[@alexzhylinskyi]

Dr . Allen, I thanks for your work . I am 17 and I have been suffering from dry eye for two years . Now I use almost all treatment methods that you recommended ( Omega-3, good sleep , blinking, physical activity, oil based drops and ointments , warm compresses , glasses against wind ) . I have lost about 40 % of meobian glands. Can I restore my glands ? You actually told a lot of about managing this disease , long term battle. I understand that is life long disease, but are there at least some studies that show that meobian glands can be grow back?

[@Priyan0000]

R u ok now please reply😭🙏

[@joni4taz]

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!

[@WWarthog798]

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.

[@susiekidd9183]

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.

[@cleocatra9324]

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.

[@hamm5fam]

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!

[@richardjohnson4065]

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

[@jp642]

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.

[@richardjohnson4065]

@@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

[@KL-yv5vs]

Amazing content no one else has talked about!

[@anniehoude6667]

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

[@carlosquintana1657]

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!

[@alexrusso8029]

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.

[@brendamccreary9101]

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.

[@dcher3868]

Seriously?? Did you read the directions???

[@gazerdaestrela]

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!

[@charlanemcconkey6024]

I had cataract surgery five months ago.. wished I didn't.. this dry eye is horrible.. they never told me this might happen.. and now I hear it is common... and I wear a cpap.. which doesn't help ... ugh ugh ugh...

[@cyndyfisher]

Do you have a video on proper drop application?

[@northernmemaw4036]

I've used Genteal liquid & sometimes gel drops, which has helped sometimes. The biggest help seemed to be resting, as in away from light (wearing sunglasses), but nothing has helped in the long term 💔 I'm very allergic to multiple medications, so these would not work for me, but thank you for your informative video as always😊

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

Resting is super helpful. I know for some people they sleep with their eyes slightly open so things never full heal. There are some new eyelid seals for sleeping which I hope to talk about soon.

[@northernmemaw4036]

@@DoctorEyeHealth Well, I thank you for your informative videos, because you've been more helpful to me than my past specialists😁

[@sballantine8127]

@@DoctorEyeHealth PLEASE do discuss this very soon. My eye lids, especially the right one, do not close all the way and in addition to using either ointment or the genteel gel stuff in a tube, I have to use something, I personally use a sock, to place over my eyes to keep the lids closed. While it works, if there's something else that would be more effective or at least as effective, I would feel very much like to know about it as soon as possible. Thank you.

[@bonnieslonim2048]

@@sballantine8127 While we wait for the video, I have two things I'm trying during sleep. Very new, so I can't give you the definitive answer, but you might do your own experimenting: First, Press and Seal wrap from the grocery store! The slightly tacky surface is just enough to create a seal without painful removal. I've used approximately 3" squares pressed around each eye. I felt quite "claustrophobic" when using on two eyes, but much more comfortable when I use it on only my worse eye (leaving the other one free to see the clock, blink, etc.) The more expensive option, but definitely more comfortable, that I just tried for the first time last night, is Eye Seals 4.0 from Eye Eco. I got the clear version so that I can engage with my environment a bit more. They are very comfortable. I did not make them very tight, so they felt like there was more gapping than would be ideal, but surprise! - there was moisture built up on the inside of the goggle in the morning, indicating that there was enough protection to keep much evaporation from happening. I still used drops once or twice in the night, but that was an improvement. Good luck!

[@zaksstory2916]

@@sballantine8127 use Medi tape! Works amazing

[@Tweetybirdx]

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.

[@dhallam3929]

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.

[@AdvancedOphthalmologySurgery]

Insightful and thorough review! Congratulations! very useful information for both patients and eyecare professionals!

[@naomisnow-valleley8585]

as doctors dont tell you enough about dry eye and cause when you getting old tends to get worsse

[@CM-mv7ti]

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.

[@deirdremarshall-greene1181]

Insurance didn't cover these procedures. Now as a Retired Registered Nurse on a fixed income. I improvise with my 3 decade of ER exposure.

[@ravensimonyay]

my eyes always feel like somethings in there, i’m rubbing them all day long and it both of my eyes look like i have black eyes. i’ve tried prescription drops & bruder’s eye pads and nothing helps. it’s the worst pain i’ve ever had to deal with and i can’t relieve the pain or irritation without constantly rubbing my eye. i give up

[@Rushil.Dhawan]

Very information Just what your viewers want and love you for!!!

[@milannagarkoti2105]

Hycosan extra.It is preservative free and also once open you can use for 6 months.

[@MyzDefy]

You really laid it all out there and I appreciate the excellent explanation of treatments. However, it's so depressing that these treatments you talk about that would be so beneficial are not covered by insurance. Doesn't dry eye disease and/or MGD not treated properly cause vision loss or impairment? Insurance companies do NOT care about are health. Who thought of making eyes (and teeth btw) separate from our bodies?? 🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️ I am sick to death of insurance! Anyway, thank you for all the information!

[@shopna53]

Hello Dr Allen. I’m from the uk and 8 months ago I opened the oven doors and black smoke went straight into my eyes. Since then I have been going back and forth to my Gp & optician and all I get is eye drops. I got diagnosed with MGD. I went eye A+E twice and I got sent away as it’s ‘nothing serious’ and to continue with warm compress, massage & eye drops. I did get given steroids for 2 weeks back in January as i begged them to look at my eyes. When she did she gave me steroids. I recently went to Moorfields A+ E hospital (suppose to be the best in the uk). The nurse was so impressed with the amount of knowledge & information I knew about my condition. (Thanks to this channel). Again told me that there is nothing they can do and sent me away as I’m doing all right things and there is nothing more the can do. This is something I just have to live with. After 6 months of harassing my gp I have finally been referred to an ophthalmologist. Only it’s a 27 week wait under the NHS! I’m so exhausted chasing after health professionals to take me seriously and give me something! I have a baby and young children to need to take care of. I can’t live like this.

[@TASIAawful1]

Omg I’m sorry to hear what happened with you did you burn your eyes opening the oven door? It must be very hard especially with young children. Did you manage to get help in any way are eyes better? NHS is terrible the waiting lists go on for ever

[@axiomaticidioms3857]

Mine started up after the Canadian wildfires last year. I hope you got some help?

[@shopna53]

Hello sorry for the extremely late reply. Since my last message; the NHS waiting time was actually 6 months! I finally saw a specialist 6 month later who looked at my eyes told me I had evaporated dry eye and put me on steroids for 6 weeks. After during my 6 weeks my eyes got better but once I got off them the symptoms came back. My follow up appointment was 8 months later! I actually broke down during my appointment 8 months only no tears who seen. I was just so defeated. The doctor examined my eyes and made me do a tear drop test. He put thin paper under my bottom lin. This made me produce tears. He then told me my tear production was good but my tears evaporated 2/3 seconds later. Which is why my eyes were always feeling super sore, gritty and sensitive to light and all the other symptoms I was having. He put me on steroids for 4 months ( i actually took it for 5 months) This was a turning point in my life. My 80% if my symptoms disappeared. My follow up was a month later so I had a month to see if it got worse. I got seen and at that moment my only complaint was severe sensitivity to light. I am having to wear sun glasses everywhere. Even at home. I have now on ikervis (strong no steroids medication). It’s only been 2 months but I can already see an increase in tear production. But I am still extremely sensitive to light. I will be on it for 6 months so I will update on how I get on. Thank you so much for your message. My baby just turn 4. This started when she was 1. She is now sleeping through the night which I have found helps with the dry eyes. It’s been a very long journey but I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you so much for asking after me & my children.

[@axiomaticidioms3857]

@@shopna53 I'm glad they're starting to help you. I need to return to my ophthalmologist because I think my meibomian glands are blocked... I'm trying the compresses, eyelid wipes, etc... and my lower lids are inflamed and crusting.. I can't get them to go down I can still tear up but my eyes are a little more sensitive to light than they used to be.

[@shopna53]

Hello; I’m on a few Facebook groups and a number of people have had their eyes triggered from wildfire. How are your eyes? Are they better? Mine are so much better since my last message. I did reply to another comment on what’s happening. After lots of back & forth with long hospital waiting times I’m currently on strong non steroid eyedrops (ikervis) for extremely light sensitivity. But all my other dry eye symptoms have drastically improved. I do get flare ups when the seasons changes; the doctor said that’s environmental. How are things going for you? How is your eye health? Thank you for asking after my eye health.

[@Heller_215]

I have lost hope I got severe dry eye at the age of 18 because of Steven Johnson syndrome I have extreme pain most of the time and I also don’t work which makes it more difficult for me to try treatments i don’t know what to do

[@queenbee12436]

So sorry. 😟

[@abc_cba]

I'm sorry to put up an irrelevant comment but that jawline of yours is so defined, I feel jealous. Thanks for the video, I don't know why it takes so many months for people to get results from Cyclosporine, I usually see results in just 2 or 3 days, but yeah, it stings my eye all the time but I guess, that's how the mechanism works to trigger the tear glands. Thankfully, here in India, it's not as expensive as the American counterparts, but yeah, it's still 4-6 times the price of regular artificial tear based cellulose eye drops. As a Software Engineer, I can't run away from the dry eyes but : 1) Having a Red Light Filter on my Android Phone (twilight app) and the in-built option of night mode on Windows 11, helps immensely. 2) I eat a lot of Zezanthin and Leutin based natural foods that I grow in my yard, it helps !! 3) I do these focus exercises. 4) I emphasize my sleep over everything. There's a native herb known as Jatamansi (Himalayan/Indian Valerian has 3 times more of the sleep boosting compounds than the Western variants) which boosts my melatonin, Vacha (another mild herb which is hyperfragrant, kind of like eating on a perfume bottle) it works as a sedative too, I make my own Chamomile Wine at home, it works too (obviously, moderate consumption). 5) Try adding Tryptophan based food at bedtime, it helps producing Melatonin too. 6) Lastly, I wear a UV 400 based Sunglass outside and inside the house, I use glasses that have UV 400 and a Blue Light Blocking Glasses for Computer and vision. It helps as an anti-aging, I stay off the direct sunlight from 9 am to 4 pm because, it's always Sunny and fiery furnace during Summer in my city, I guess ut not only protects my skin but helps my eyes as well. 7) Always do my own research on the negatives of whatever I do! For example, cold compress may be good for someone, but for many it won't be a good option. There's no true solution to every human, as our bodies respond differently to everything.

[@salahaldinfarhat5691]

Hello,I'm a 4th year medstudent,I'm 22 years old,I suffer from dry eyes since the age of 15,it's actually refreshing to see that an eye doctor suffers from the same condition that I suffer from and is still thriving in life,it really does give me hope. (I always wonder about the obstacles the adult world would throw against me,knowing that I suffer from such condition). Because of my limited capabilities,I just use systane eye drops and warm compresses to treat my condition, I still do undergo alot of difficulties through my life,but somehow I still manage to get things done. I was wondering if it's possible that you make a video on the long term effects-consequences of dry eyes and the use of artificial tears on eye health?(being only 22 years old,I do doubt and ask myself what does the future hold for me from a medical standpoint). I would like to thank you doctor for all your various videos, I follow you in a regular manner,have a nice day.

[@mohamedasbbane5315]

Like you I'm 22 years old and I m a 4th year medstudent , and l suffer from severe dry eyes causing me burning and pain in every fucking moment

[@老子-d4o]

22歲+1

[@rreddy4640]

I suffered from severe dry eyes for more than 20 years. My eyes have become weaker from time to time. It's always best to avoid driving, cooking & swimming, & also reduce watching all screens to the minimum to enhance good eye life & strength. As years go by you could develop sleep issues worsening further. The earlier you manage the eyes, the healthier it stays. Spects help for less wear & tear. Sleeping routines matter big time.

[@mrinvestor1932]

@@rreddy4640 sir are you still suffering

[@priyanshnand6291]

@@mohamedasbbane5315 how's now?

[@deirdremarshall-greene1181]

Restasis preservative free eye drops are first line defense against dry eye.

[@janeherrmann2406]

Awesome video! Thank you for all you do to educate us!

[@arymhansie]

Thank you so much for all this information-my Ophthalmologist has never mentioned anything about these.

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

Glad it was helpful!

[@pagonabarbata1364]

There are certain prescription medications which can bring on dry eyes. In my case, they were Prozac & Spironolactone. Even though I ceased taking both these medications well over 12 months ago, I'm still suffering with this condition. Once diagnosed, it never goes away. However, only recently I started taking a teaspoon of hemp seed oil daily as I read somewhere on the internet that it contains heaps more omega 3 than olive oil, plus omega 6 & 9. At this point in time, it's too early to tell if there's any difference in improvement, but I'm sure I'll start noticing a difference soon as I'm sick of putting drops in.

[@loveskinas3352]

My eye doctor told me not to take omega 6 for dry eyes just omega 3. You aren't getting the targeted benefits if you are taking a multi.

[@pagonabarbata1364]

@@loveskinas3352 But I don't take multis.

[@peterobrien2537]

hi @pagonabarbata1364, did it work? I recently got diagnosed with dry eyes. Pls reply thanks

[@pagonabarbata1364]

@@peterobrien2537 didn't see any real noticeable difference. Try flaxseed oil.

[@peterobrien2537]

@@pagonabarbata1364 thanks for your reply, are your dry eyes OK now or still bothering you?

[@luisbaltodano227]

Thank you for another very informative video.

[@julie-u2y]

What is the cause for scaring because my doctor said that I have a a little scar tissue? Appreciate your reply thank you!

[@mayevb1835]

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.

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

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.

[@imraansm3748]

Hi sir .. My doctor said that I have mild conjunctivitis in my eye but whenever I read books or see objects I could see the same objects for a second when I look at somewhere .. why could I see.. even when I read books I could see the same letter for a while .. is that posses any problem or it could be treated kindly reply sir

[@biancacapazario9247]

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

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

Thank you Bianca! That means a lot. Glad I can help.

[@leuyPica]

Docs won't tell you all these options - you have to ask and nag them and then they look surprised when you know about these treatments! Hang in there and God Bless Dr, Allen

[@demigaines5644]

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR SHARING THIS I HAVE SEVERE DRY EYES ITS HORRIBLE. I GET THIS WIRED FEELING IT SCARES ME WITH ANXIETY. I GET THIS FEELING OF ROCKS SAND MOVING AROUND IN MY EYES 👀 I ALSO GET THIS HORRIBLE ITCHING IN THE CORNER OF MY EYES. EYE TWITCHING I USE SYSTANE IT HELPS ALOT.I CAN'T BE OUT ENJOYING THE WARM WEATHER FOR VERY LONG MY EYES BECOME IRRITATED..IM SO PROTECTIVE OF MY EYES..PLEASE HELP..... I. LOVE UR VIDEOS THEY ARE VERY INFORMATIVE......

[@TASIAawful1]

I get that feeling occasionally too almost like there are little bugs crawling in my eyes it’s horrible

[@demigaines5644]

@@TASIAawful1 ME TO ITS A HORRIBLE FEELING

[@marcusrios9203]

If you have problems with dry eye please consult your local ophthalmologist. You need an examination to see what “type” of dry eye you have. I appreciate what the KZbin Dr is trying to do tho

[@christinebeades9465]

Unfortunately most opthalmologists don't know enough about Dry Eye or have the equipment to determine the type of dry eye one has. Its a specialty. In my area, an eye clinic that has a hundred plus doctors for different types of eye disease only have 2 with dry eye specialty.

[@diamondraven484]

Keep making these videos Please

[@dodge698]

I have severe dry eye, only thing that helps is a lubricating eye spray on my desk which i have to use all the time, so my eyes dont fall out.

[@erizabeth613]

Dry eyes suck for real can't even sit under a fan🥺

[@pr3942]

What is the spray called?

[@carlalessard1985]

So informative, do you have any ideas for blephoritis? Thanks

[@hanakhoo3621]

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??

[@jasminepfau]

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!

[@dianemcq64]

My dry eyes is totally about my lacrimal glands. I’ve done the usual Xiidra, Restasis and Cequa, nasal spray, iTear device, serum tears, and I’m now undergoing the torture of scleral lenses. The irritation upon removing the lenses is extreme. It lasts 90 minutes if I do a removal right after insertion (for a bubble) and last night the irritation was so bad on one eye it woke me up after midnight with actual mild pain. Today both eyelids are swollen again. What about Lacrisert?

[@Emilyhildegaard1]

My ophthalmologist tells me that I have rosacea of the eyelids! (Resulting in inflammation.) None on my cheeks, but apparently on my lids. Currently taking antibiotic and (temporarily) steroid gtts. He said Systane between the daily drops are fine. Systane drops are comforting, but I surely hope this is not a permanent condition.

[@mahshiidm]

Me too ,but my dr wasnt sure about it.I have rosacea on my nose. They arent sure if it is for dryness or rosacea.my left eyelid bcome red and swellon and also my eye bcome red but it become normal very soon.but my eyelid is about 1,5 years.

[@rameeskv946]

Doctor Please explain last stage of dry eyes

[@Docazbiba]

@doctor eye health Your videos are very helpful love to watch

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

Thank you so much!

[@alicemungia1642]

I bought a Nira Home laser to treat my undereye wrinkles and discovered that it heated up the eye glands and melted the oil temporarily, of course.

[@shobanapillay9587]

YES,,,I've used active fusion drops I'm using whole day

[@fallonvieira3958]

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.

[@tishalegre5717]

thank you for sharing informative videos! you answered my uncertainties. helps a lot!

[@TMiller808]

Avoid mold exposure from water damage.

[@kimberlythompson8273]

What about castor oil?

[@joeleeashley3853]

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 😀

[@Angelofjusticia]

So, let’s say that I can draw blood and I have my own machine to spin it and get my own blood’s serum. What’s the difference from that and the lab that will sell me my own serum? 🤔

[@katiekane5247]

A couple thousand bucks. That's it. I did it for clients & myself when I was a vet tech. Wish I could still have access to the equipment. Of course, sterile technique & we kept them in fridge & only used 3 days.

[@zudora1978]

if your dry eye is due to the oil glands dysfunction, will going on cyclosporine help?

[@ashleyfeinberg2988]

I learned so much!

[@hw534]

Mine started after the Covid Vax! On reddit I found lots of other ppl who say the same

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

I believe it!

[@axiomaticidioms3857]

Mine came during the Canadian "wildfires" last year (I live in Michigan) but the ophthalmologist said it's from a condition, I've had other symptoms... And so tests ensue when I can afford them... 😮‍💨

[@otiebrown9999]

Good review.

[@nicolemcdonaldpkd]

One of your best videos!

[@shakenbacon-vm4eu]

For my level of hope, is there a cure to severe dry eye caused by lasik? Does that eventually go away in the healing process as long as the patient is super compliant?

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

I think there is a lot of hope, but it may be a long road. It may take several treatment strategies.

[@shakenbacon-vm4eu]

@@DoctorEyeHealth Thanks! This gives me a ton of hope, no lie!

[@_alysonh]

I am also in the same boat. Severe dry eye after lasik. I hope everyday my eyes begin to heal to heal enough back to feeling normal or at least close to normal

[@janjarvis9398]

Over Active Thyroid gives me gritty eyes informed recently

[@4048]

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?

[@katherinerand1892]

I have dry eyes and use restasis. I think it help but I still get dry eyes abs sore and feels like something in my eyes. I was told use preservative free eye drops one an hour which is hard to keep up with. Would love a better option! To note years ago I had two corneal transplants in my teens. I am 48 I live in southern Ontario Canada. Yes I get flair ups! But I don’t go to see my eye doctors when I do.

[@irinashakti]

You are amazing! So grateful!

[@OranguBANG]

I'm on the computer 10+ hours a day for my day job. Because I need to get paid, lifestyle change isn't possible. I went 30 years of my life being able to look at the screen non stop with no issues ever. But now 5 min of screentime my eyes are so itchy and burning. Is this dry eye? It started a month ago and it's killing me! I should note I saw an eye doctor and they said my eyes are fine and told me to get eye drops which have done nothing

[@calvinleonard2105]

Hello , so how are your eyes now sir?

[@OranguBANG]

@@calvinleonard2105 hey. I got horrible floaters when I'm out in the sun , but no dry eyes no pain! Just took a year of good diet and all of the pain seemed to subside

[@OranguBANG]

@@calvinleonard2105 what worked for me is eating tons of fish and mixing in fruits like pineapple and mango. It took a while but worked

[@Mechelle3F]

Yay! Autologous Serum Drops!!!! Worth the cost.

[@barbarak8158]

Wow! Very informative!

[@jillmoore3073]

Just got regenereyes, and then did research on it. The dry eye foundation says it's a scam and not fda approved as they claim it is. I'm super bummed, just waisted a bunch of money!

[@kakashii9000]

I have been told the main problem for my dry eye is that my eyelids don't close properly. Reducing the lipid layer and cornea exposure. Get pretty dry overnight also. I don't see many people with this problem so unsure what the best treatment is. I have a pretty extensive general home routine. I did try moisture chamber goggles which didn't work for me at all, irritated the skin around my eyes and would wake me up at night. A lot of the severe treatments you have mentioned in this video I don't think are available here in the UK. Punctal plugs are possible here though. Have you came across patients with the same cause of dry eye as me before? If so, what any specific treatments you think are best?

[@smooth_pursuit]

Do you have EDS or some other hypermobility syndrome? The thing with the lids not staying closed at night (forgot what it’s called) can be related to that.

[@kakashii9000]

@@smooth_pursuit Haven't heard of those before, but looking at the symptoms of those conditions I don't think so.

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

check this out! www.eyesleeptite.com/

[@loveskinas3352]

I have the same issue

[@KellieGonzales]

I have the same problem, tried masks and goggles but I sleep on my face and none were comfortable enough that I wouldn’t end up ripping off in the night or moving off my face. The only thing that works for me is to literally tape my eyes closed. I’ve tried the eyesleeptite patches recommended below, but they were too small for my eye and didn’t stick well enough to stay on. What works best for me is the paper 3m medical tape. I stick it to the back of my hand first so it’s not super super sticky and then tape one piece down vertically over the middle of my eyelid, then a smaller piece more diagonally over the outer corner. It sounds awful but it’s surprisingly comfortable and honestly really works for me.

[@frozunyogert6159]

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.

[@DoctorEyeHealth]

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!

[@helios4425]

I been told I have MGD and ocular rosacea. I have tried lotemax, FML, restasis, lipoflow, IPL and none of them made my eyes better. Every morning I wake up with red rough eyes and feeling of something In them