The latest cure for dry eyes: the IPL laser
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Published: 04/09/2017
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Eye irritation due to lack of tears or poor hydration, known as "dry eye syndrome", has become a growing concern. It is estimated that 37% of the total population is affected and this figure is expected to grow because of environmental conditions, stress, drug abuse and poor eating habits.
What causes dry eyes and how is it diagnosed?
Dry eye often occurs due to an unstable tear film which can result from alterations in the glands of the eyelids (Meibomian and sebaceous glands). There are many dry eye causes and an accurate diagnosis is complex. Each person requires a precise and thorough examination and analysis, from which a personalised and effective therapeutic strategy can be devised. People with symptoms of dry eyes should have their lifestyle habits, stress and diet analysed and, of course, an examination of the ocular surface to determine the state of the sensory nerves (responsible for the pain), and, fundamentally, the Meibomian glands.
Dry eye treatment
The good news is that we have new treatments that can help solve the problems of these patients. We have new anti-inflammatory drugs and we can improve the biological conditions of the tissues by applying drops with growth factors or stem cells, obtained from blood plasma or the same eye surface.
The IPL laser
The use of the IPL (intense pulsed light) laser for treating dry eye is a great innovation. This technique, which is painless and does not require an operating room, is highly effective and makes us think that many people with dry eye can benefit from this new treatment. The high-frequency laser IPL activates circulation in the eyelids and the metabolism of the Meibomian glands. The glands produce fat and other components that lubricate and nourish the ocular surface, stabilising the tear film to prevent breakage and sealing it against contact with the air.
If you suffer from dry eye syndrome you should see an ophthalmologist.