subject: IPL treatment for Chronic Dry Eye [print this page] IPL treatment for Chronic Dry Eye
Dry eyes syndrome basically affects over 3 million women and more than a million men with an age of 50 years and older in the United States.
Its symptoms usually consists discomfort, impairment of vision, sun or light sensitivity to the eyes, itchiness, and an unstable tear film which may lead to further damage to the eyes surface.
Dry eyes maybe caused by the following:
Bodys hormonal changes
- Menopause
- Oral contraceptive use
- Pregnancy
Medications
- Anti-hypertensives
- Anti-depressants
- Decongestants
- Anti-histamines
Air Pollution (smog or smoke)
Dry and gusty weather
Chronic Contact Lens usage
Over usage of eyes (too much reading or computer/ TV screen exposure)
Without treatment, dry eyes may lead to a complication that involves the cornea such as ulcerations, scarring, perforations, and infection which may unfortunately lead to blindness.
Treatment
The traditional management of dry eyes are eye drops, eye gels, topical medications and even surgery.
Now the most advanced treatment for dry eyes is the Intense Pulsed Laser. You can now say good bye to the endless eye-drops and medications your doctor has prescribed.
What Is Intense Pulsed Laser?
Intense Pulsed Laser is originally used by dermatologists for the treatment of skin discolorations, hair removal, acne rosacea, and other skin ailments. But recent studies have shown that Intense Pulsed Laser can also be used to treat dry eyes.
This procedure has been pioneered by Dr. Rolando Toyos who observed that patients previously treated for their skin ailments with the IPL also observed that their eyes felt better. This has encouraged Dr. Toyos to study the procedure further.
IPL is now used to treat dry eyes by ophthalmologists across the country.
How does it work?
Basically the IPL works like a very good warm compress for the eyes. The blood vessels that surround the eyes absorb the heat that is produced by the laser, which in turn heats up the neighboring areas around those blood vessels. As result, secretions that have plugged the meibomian glands are dissolved. Moreover, the blood vessels around the eye are sealed, inhibiting inflammatory cells that cause inflammation from going to that area.
The meibomian glands are then unclogged and restored to its function of giving the eyes a serviceable tear film and inflammation is reduced.
Relief from dry eyes is noticeable quickly after the procedure.
Other advantages of IPL are the reduction of skin infection caused by bacteria and eyelash parasites.
IPL procedure is typically done in three to four session within a span of four months for an optimized result. Then subsequently, regular trips to the doctor for upkeep every six months to about a year.
For a more personalized management, it is best to consult an ophthalmologist.
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