Dry Eye Exams

The process of a Dry eye exam is very simple. In fact, in most instances, it is included within the other elements of an eye exam and you may not even realize that you have had a specific test to check for Dry eye related complications. Additional tests, such as Inflammadry MMP-9 testing, may be used to check the quantity and the quality of your tears.

Dry Eye Syndrome is actually part of a larger disease called Ocular Surface Disease (OSD). OSD describes a condition that affects the front part of the eye including the eyelids, conjunctiva and cornea. OSD can interfere with both your vision and the comfort of your eyes. It often includes Dry Eye Syndrome, Allergic Conjunctivitis and various eyelid diseases like Meibomian Gland Disease, Rosacea, and Blepharitis. OSD can interfere with your vision and the comfort of your eyes.

There are many treatment options to improve your vision and comfort. Usually dry eye exams, dry eye testing and many dry eye treatments are covered by most insurance plans. Please call us today for more details!

The most common symptoms of OSD include:

• Dryness

• Itchiness

• Gritty/Sandy sensation

• Feeling that there is something in the eyes

• Light Sensitivity

• Redness

• Crusty/Moist discharge

• Excessive Tearing

• Fatigue/Eyestrain

• Intermittent blurry vision

If you have been diagnosed with OSD or an associated problem like Dry Eye Syndrome and you are not happy with your current treatment plan, please come in for an evaluation with Dr. Bucci! If you have started any of these symptoms, please know that the faster you treat OSD the better your long term outcome will be. Don't wait! Call us today to schedule your appointment!

What is Ocular Surface Disease (OSD), including Dry Eye Syndrome?

OSD describes a condition that affects the front part of the eye including the eyelids, conjunctiva and cornea. OSD can interfere with both your vision and the comfort of your eyes. It often includes Dry Eye Syndrome, Allergic Conjunctivitis and various eyelid diseases like Meibomian Gland Disease, Rosacea, and Blepharitis. Other conditions that contribute to OSD include ectropion, conjunctival chalasis, pinguecula,and pterygium. OSD can interfere with your vision and the comfort of your eyes.

As light enters the eye, the first surface it passes through is the tear film; poor tear films can cause a type of blurry vision that glasses cannot improve. In addition, the cornea, conjunctiva and eyelid are bathed in tears; poor tear films can cause irritation.

Our tears are made of different components including lipids (oils), aqueous (water) and mucin (mucous). Floating within the tears are necessary proteins, enzymes and electrolytes. If the natural balance of your tears are disrupted it can lead to inflammation and complications that can cause decreased vision and increased discomfort. Also, some patients do not experience symptoms in the early stages so it is important to have regular eye exams to rule out OSD or if present treat it early to prevent more serious complications from developing.

How do I know I have Ocular Surface Disease (OSD), including Dry Eye Syndrome?

• Dryness

• Itchiness

• Gritty/Sandy sensation

• Feeling that there is something in the eyes

• Light Sensitivity

• Redness

• Crusty/Moist discharge

• Excessive Tearing

• Fatigue/Eyestrain

• Intermittent blurry vision

Am I at risk for Ocular Surface Disease (OSD), including Dry Eye Syndrome?

• Age 50 and older

• Genetics/family history

• Smoke/Vape

• Harsh environmental conditions

• Poor diet (processed foods, fast foods)

• Autoimmune disease

• Diabetes

• Certain medications

• Digital Technology Use (phone, tablet, laptop, desktop)

• Contact Lens Use

Why is an eye exam important for Ocular Surface Disease (OSD), including Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dr. Bucci uses examination, testing of the tear film, and imaging of the eyes to diagnose and treat OSD. Dr. Bucci will recommend ways to decrease exposure to aggravating factors. She will advise you regarding solutions best for your case including lifestyle changes, supplementation, UV/Blue light glasses and preferred contact lens solutions and makeup. Over the counter (OTC) foams, sprays, cleansing pads, solutions, preservative free solutions, gels or ointment are often part of successful treatment plans. Finding the right OTC product can be confusing! Dr. Bucci will advise you as to which brands are more effective and which have less harsh preservatives.

Other Treatment options may include Prescription drugs such as: Restasis, Xiidra, Tyrvaya, Miebo, Steroids, Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs, Antivirals, Antibiotics, or Biologic Eye Drops.

Many times patients have success with in office procedures including: Punctal Plugs, Amniotic Membranes, iLUX, ZEST, MYBO or Ocusoft (oust demodex swabstix) Lid Wash.

If left untreated, ocular surface disease will progressively worsen so it is important to have regular eye exams to identify it. Living with ocular surface disease can be challenging but the good news is that patients who seek and maintain treatment usually have improvement of symptoms! Please call us today to set up an appointment.


Schedule An Appointment Call Us