Dry Eye, a chronic ocular condition, is caused by a multitude of factors. More and more of the population is suffering from dry eye disease today, most likely due to the dependence on digital device use in our society. There are multiple factors that can cause dry eye disease, but the proper treatment can ensure that your eyes are feeling comfortable.
There are two types of dry eye, Aqueous Deficient and Evaporative Dry Eye. Aqueous deficiency simply means that there are not enough tears being made by the lacrimal gland that produces the tear film. Aqueous deficient dryness can be supplemented with artificial tear eye drops, either over the counter or prescription. Evaporative dry eye is caused by decreased production of oils by the meibomian glands of the eyelids. When oils are not produced in adequate amounts, this can cause the tear film to become unstable as well as inflammation to collect on the surface of the eye.
Bausch and Lomb has just released a new eye drop to treat Evaporative Dry Eye called Miebo (perfluorohexyloctane). This drop is the first of its kind to target and treat evaporation on the surface of the eye. The drop works by mimicking natural meibum produced by the meibomian glands. Meibum is a secretion that is rich in lipids to prevent evaporation and maintain a healthy ocular surface.
The drop is composed of a single ingredient, preservative and steroid free solution. The drop is administered four times daily to each eye. In clinical studies on the drop patients started to notice dry eye relief within 15 days (about 2 weeks). The most common side effects experienced were blurred vision and eye redness.
If you suffer from dry eye disease, this drop can potentially be added into your treatment regimen to allow you to experience further relief from your symptoms. It is best to talk with your eye care provider to see if this drop is appropriate for you. Call 860-233-2020 to make an appointment with one of our eye care providers today.