Buzzfeed POWER YOUR VISION. July 2018

Transcription

1 Buzzfeed July 2018 POWER YOUR VISION

2 INTRODUCING OUR VERY FIRST ISSUE Dear readers, This is the very 1st edition of the ophthalmology newsletter Power Your Vision which features articles & press releases on M22 OPT technology by the stalwarts in the ophthalmology industry. Our goal is always to present clinically relevant information that will keep the practitioners updated on our latest news & developments. This very 1st newsletter is all about the dynamic development in the field of dry eye by M22 OPT technology. We want this newsletter to be valuable for you so please, please share your feedback and suggestions to help us improve. As always copy of this newsletters can be found at our microsite Happy Reading!! Sincerely, Disha Upadhyaya Marketing Communication Manager Lumenis India Inside this issue How technological innovation bringing a change in the dry eye segment Dr Sri Ganesh Innovations to see a better future- Dry Eye Treatments Dr Sri Ganesh Cataract prevalent in India despite largest number of surgeries Dr Mahipal S Sachdev Press Release. Centre for Sight. Lumenis introduces first ever M22 OPT Technology. Press Release. Ojas Eye Hospital. OJAS Eye Hospital brings Lumenis M22 Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT) Mumbai hospital brings new tech for treating dry eyes Dr Niteen Dedhia Lunch Hour Treatment for Dry Eyes with new Advanced Technology Dr Saurabh Mittal Press Release. Grover Eye Laser & ENT Hospital introduces Lumenis M22 Optimal Pulse Technology for Dry Eye in Chandigarh Press Release. An encyclopaedia to the Dry Eyes condition Dr. Rohit Grover

3 Buzzfeed July How Technological Innovations are bringing a Change in the Dry Eye Segment The Eye Care Sector is Growing and the Major Push is Coming From The Technological Innovations Taking Place. -By Dr Sri Ganesh The eye care market has seen rapid growth in past some years. Consumers are as concerned about the health of their eyes as they are for other body parts. Brands in the eye care segment are bringing in the best of technology and innovation to treat the eye ailments. Dry eye has been a major concern for patients in the eye care segment. With time, the segment has seen a lot of positive changes and technology has definitely proven to be a boon for patients. Though the great quality of treatments is available now, it is very important for people to know everything about the dry eye in order to tackle it at the right time. A vague discomfort, watering, grittiness, blurring vision, redness, stickiness, foreign body sensation etc, are the common presenting symptoms in a dry eye patient. Dry eyes can either be due to a decrease in tear secretion or increase in tear evaporation. Upon tear evaporation, a reflex phenomenon kicks in, called as blink that helps to restore an even tear film over the eye. A normal person blinks times per minute. Various glands secrete various components of the tear film. Abnormal secretions from any of these glands cause an unstable tear film. The Era of Technology The era of computers and electronic gadgets has meant an unprecedented freedom from pen and paper but also freedom from natural tears. Alteration in the tear secretions can also be contributed to the hormonal changes, especially in postmenopausal women. Chronic inflammation of the glands along the lid margin is another reason for dry eye. Chronic and repeated eye allergies are also a reason for constant inflammation, thereby forming abnormal vessels around these glands and interfering with normal secretions attributing to dry eyes. Dryness in itself is a reason for inflammation and vice versa, continuing as a cycle. Various Options Various treatment modalities have been tried in the past few decades, such as artificial tears, anti-inflammatory agents: steroids for short-term, immune-suppressants for a longer duration, omega -3 fatty acids, lid scrubs, lid massage, warm compresses, and also a combination of all these. Different treatment combinations have been tried in futile. A temporary relief was noted, but not a permanent cure.

4 M22 OPT is the most advanced intense pulsed light technology that has found its way to treat the evaporative dry eye. The Latest in Market M22 OPT (Optimum Pulse Technology) is the most advanced intense pulsed light (IPL) technology that has found its way to treat the evaporative dry eye. IPL has been found to relieve the patients of their dry eyes, and hence started the journey of IPL to the eye. IPL uses a near-infrared light of different wavelength to target different cells. An appropriate wavelength is used for the eye treatment based on the skin type to prevent any skin damage. A selective photothermolysis, that is, a thermally mediated radiation damage is confined to a chosen target at the cellular or tissue structural levels. In the eye, the abnormal inflammatory vessels have targeted that feed on the normal glands in the lid margin. These abnormal vessels are eliminated post IPL, thereby restoring the normal gland function and hence a normal tear film. Conclusion Innovations make our lives comfortable. It is because of the good use of technology that has brought great changes in consumers lives. The eye care sector is a growing one and needs more such ideas and inventions to take it way forward. This article has been authored by Dr Sri Ganesh Chairman & Managing Director, Nethradhama Hospital Pvt. Ltd.

5 Innovations To See A Better Future- Dry Eye Treatments Eye Care Is An Important Segment In The Healthcare World And Technology Is Pushing It Towards A Better Future. Dry eye is one of the most annoying eye disorders caused due to vague indescribable discomfort. The international dry eyes workshop has defined dry eye disease as a multifactorial disease of the tears and ocular surface that results in symptoms of discomfort, visual disturbance, and tear film instability with potential damage to the ocular surface. Dry eye is of two types, one is due to tear deficiency e.g. Sjogren's syndrome, and the other is due to increased tear evaporation, which again can be, either due to intrinsic causes like inflammation e.g. Meibomian gland disorder or, extrinsic causes like computer vision syndrome. Dryness due to any of these factors on longstanding leads to inflammation which in turn, increases dryness, and the cycle continues. On controlling the inflammation, the inflammatory chemicals are eliminated thereby stabilising the tear film and reducing the evaporative time whereas in tear deficient dryness the inflammation role is limited. Solutions Available: Various treatment modalities have been tried to relieve this condition. Artificial tears, Steroids, Anti-inflammatory, Omega-3-fatty acids, and the latest topical medications being secretagogues, immunosuppressant, and lipid-derived endogenous molecules. The topical medications either act by adding tears to the eyes or suppressing inflammation. But the relief is just as long as the use of the medications. What s latest? M22 OPT is the latest Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology devised to address the root cause of the inflammation. The cycle of inflammation and dry eyes is attributed to the abnormal blood vessels, known as telangiectasia s, that grow at the lid margin and supply constantly the chemical mediators that cause tear film instability and increase tear osmolarity causing dry eyes. IPL acts on these telangiectatic blood vessels and eliminates them, thus removing the root cause of inflammation. As the inflammation subsides the components of the tear film becomes healthier thus stabilising the tear film. IPL uses near-infrared light to target the tissues. It works on the principle of selective photothermolysis, in which thermally mediated radiation damage is confined to chosen targets at the cellular or tissue structural levels. Tissues surrounding these targeted structures, including overlying or immediately neighbouring cells are spared, potentially reducing nonspecific, widespread thermal injury. We have screened the dry eye patients and have segregated them into tear deficient and evaporative dry eyes. As the evaporative dry eye is mainly due to inflammatory causes, we have treated these patients with M22 OPT. These patients had constant dry eyes with annoying symptoms like grittiness, foreign body sensation, puffiness around the eyes, blurring vision etc. We have examined the eyes and have tested for tear film stability before and after the treatment and have found a marked improvement in the tear film stability. There is an increase in the tear film evaporation time, tear film height, a significant reduction in puffiness around the eyes, corneal staining, frothy secretions and other symptoms. The Future Ahead: Around the globe, various new technologies and molecules are coming up for the treatment of dry eyes.the newer molecules like recombinant Human Lubricin protein has been found to improve the symptoms. Vectored Thermal pulsation procedure, transcutaneous periorbital electrical stimulation and IPL are the other upcoming technology. Conclusion: By Dr Sri Ganesh Chairman & Managing Director M22 OPT has successfully reduced the symptoms of the dry eye patients giving promising results. Finally we have a very good alternative to the regular use of medications and in fact, a full stop to continuous eye drops.

6 Cataract prevalent in India despite largest number of surgeries: Dr Mahipal S Sachdev, Centre for Sight India has the largest number of blind people in the world and majority of that is because of cataract. As much as 13 million people are estimated to be blind in the country, according to Dr Mahipal S Sachdev, Chairman and Managing Director, Centre for Sight. In an interaction with ETHealthworld, Dr Sachdev said, We have the largest number of surgeries being done here but despite that we still have the burden of cataract. On one hand, cataract is not being taken care of by surgery because of the lack of availability of ophthalmologists or proper infrastructure in villages, and on the other hand, India is doing about 6.5 million cataract surgeries a year. The number of surgeries done here is more than in US, Europe and China put together. Latest technology for cataract surgery According to Dr Sachdev, the latest technology that is available for the cataract surgery is the Blade-Free Femto Laser Robotic Cataract Eye Surgery. Femto technology automates the step of the cataract surgery therefore making it much more precise and accurate. He added that the lenses are also improving overtime with multifocal or trifocal lenses which when implanted in the eye can take care of the need for reading glasses. Increase in Dry Eye disease cases Today dry eye is essentially being caused because of toxicity that is around due to environmental pollution and excessive use of gadgets, said Dr Sachdev.

7 Dry eye disease occurs when the quantity and/or quality of tears fails to keep the surface of the eye adequately lubricated. The other factors could be when certain alterations and inflammatory responses of the meibomian glands which start to produce less amount of basal tear. Dr Sachdev said, Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT) is latest advance for treating dry eye. Optimal Pulse Technology is a xenon flashlamp which gives you the wavelength of 500 to 1000 nanometres. The abnormal blood vessels which are causing the inflammation of the meibomian glands get coagulated and this reduces the release of inflammatory responses which ultimately causes an improvement in the lipid secretion. Major challenge in eye care India has a huge undiagnosed population which requires glasses but are not wearing them. Excessive use of computers and near vision devices is increasing the incidence of refractive errors or myopia. Hence, it is important to have a routine eye examination, children should be examined at birth, at one year of age and it should it be mandatory even when a child is getting admission in a school," said Dr Sachdev. Future of Eye care Industry "Technology is coming very thick and fast in the eye care industry and five years from now it is only going to get more technology driven. I see the eye care industry getting more consolidated and some have already started selling the optical frames through digital world which people can try and order online. There is a lot of digitization that is coming into ophthalmology and the growth of eye care industry is expected to be similar to that of healthcare," concluded Dr Mahipal S Sachdev. This article has been authored by Dr Mahipal S Sachdev Centre for Sight

8 Press Release of Centre for Sight. Lumenis Introduces First Ever M22 OPT Technology The Lumenis M22 OPT is an excellent technology for treating eyelid inflammation. Lumenis Ltd, the world s largest energy-based medical device company for surgical, aesthetic and ophthalmic applications has launched its first ever Lumenis M22 OPT technology with Center for Sight in North India, in New Delhi. With an increasing use of gadgets like mobiles phones, laptops and computers workaholic people are more prone to dry eye syndrome. Studies show that humans generally blink about 22 times a minute. But when we concentrate on a computer screen or a smartphone or even while driving, the rate goes down to five or seven blinks per minute. If this tear film does not spread sufficiently across the eye, it can lead to dryness and irritation. With the launch of Optimum Pulse Technology (OPT) for Dry Eye disease, Lumenis helps address this growing disease with our path breaking technology. Meibomian Gland dysfunction (MGD) is one of the leading causes of Dry Eye disease (DED), affecting millions worldwide. Optimal pulse technology from Lumenis has emerged as the most effective alternative for patients with MGD. OPT leads to significant improvement in ocular surface quality, gland function and dry eye symptoms said Mr. Rashid Mokhdoomi, Senior Director, Marketing India and South Asia, Lumenis We have also developed a Practice Enhancement Programs for Clinics; as we foresee rapid increase in demand for Dry Eye treatment with OPT technology. We continue to invest in our training and education platforms to ensure increasing number of patients benefit from the latest OPT technology added Mr. Mokhdoomi. Dr. Mahipal S Sachdev, Chairman and Medical Director, Centre for Sight said Technology has opened a new pathway for treating the patients who has to face a lot of problems related to the dry eye. Since, we always believed in bringing new technology to consumers, the new M22 OPT is infact a path breaking technology to the traditional used therapies. The Lumenis M22 OPT is an excellent technology for treating eyelid inflammation. OPT is selectively absorbed in the hemoglobin of abnormal blood vessels, and destroys them by thrombosis. A major source of inflammation threatening the eyelids is then removed. It treats the root cause of the problem, provides immediate relief, a safe and comfortable, fast lunch time treatment and improves the skin appearance too. Experts say dry eye affects millions of adults. The risk increases with advancing age.

9 OJAS Eye Hospital brings Lumenis M22 Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT)

10 Ojas Press release news has been covered in various regional print editions.

11 OJAS Eye Hospital brings Lumenis M22 Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT) Mumbai s renowned super specialty eye care Ojas Eye Hospital, offering unmatched eye care, has brought home Lumenis M22 Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT) for treatment of dry eyes. The latest eye care technology is a great revolutionary value addition to the ophthalmic applications especially for the treatment of dry eye. Lumenis is the world s largest energy-based medical device company and is renowned for technological breakthroughs ophthalmic lasers and a long list of industry gold standards. M22 is the answer to a majority of eye inflammation treatments with OPT being the most advanced IPL technology, developed by World s Largest Energy based medical device company, Lumenis. Designed and curated to deliver reliable, safe and enhanced physician and patient comfort, the M22 services will be available at Ojas Eye Hospitals at Bandra and Kandivali Commenting on the development, Dr. Niteen Dedhia, Medical Director, OJAS Eye Hospital said M22 is a latest state of the art eye care technology. Most recent case studies and researches have showcased prevalence of dry eye among patients ranging across age groups. The introduction of M22 OPT technology will be a path breaker and a great relief to patients who have been prescribed to eye drops, the only available solution to treat dryness. Adding to his statement acclaimed eye surgeon, Dr. Dedhia also said that Getting M22 OPT to our patients is a mission-driven consortium to bring the best in eye care to the people of Western India especially Mumbai. We are looking at this as a solution and step forward to our institution Ojas vision to be a Globally Recognized Eye Care Hospital known for its Distinctive Excellence & Patient Satisfaction. Our path breaking technology will help address the growing dry eye disease among thousands of people, said Mr. Dharmendra Mistry, Country Head of Lumenis India, We are happy to partner with Dr.Niteen Dedhia, who is a veteran ophthalmologist and medical director at OJAS Eye

12 Hospital. Entering in the western market is part of our expansion strategy ensuring the increasing number of patients who will be benefited from our latest OPT technology, he said. Meibomian Gland dysfunction (MGD) is one of the leading causes of dry eye disease (DED), affecting millions of people worldwide. Optimal pulse technology from Lumenis has emerged as the most effective alternative for patients, leading to significant improvement in ocular surface quality, gland function and dry eye symptoms. The Lumenis M22 OPT is an excellent technology for treating eyelid inflammation. OPT is selectively absorbed in the hemoglobin of abnormal blood vessels, and destroys them by thrombolysis. A major source of inflammation threatening the eyelids is then removed. It treats the root cause of the problem, provides immediate relief, a safe and comfortable, fast lunch time treatment and improves the skin appearance too. Mumbai hospital brings new tech for treating dry eyes MUMBAI: Ojas Eye Hospital, Mumbai, has brought Lumenis M22 Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT) for treatment of dry eyes. The technology is the answer to a majority of eye inflammation treatments with OPT being the most advanced IPL technology, developed by World s Largest Energy based medical device company, Lumenis. The services will be available at Ojas Eye Hospitals at Bandra and Kandivali. Dr. Niteen Dedhia, Medical Director, OJAS Eye Hospital said, The introduction of OPT will be a path breaker and a great relief to patients who have been prescribed eye drops, the only available solution to treat dryness. Meibomian Gland dysfunction is one of the leading causes of dry eye disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Optimal Studies show that humans generally blink about 22 times a minute. But when we concentrate on a computer screen or a smart phone or even while driving, the rate goes down to five or seven blinks per minute. If this tear film does not spread sufficiently across the eye, it can lead to dryness and irritation. Experts say dry eye affects millions of adults. The risk increases with advancing age Dr. Niteen Dedhia Ojas Eye Hospital pulse technology from Lumenis has emerged as the most effective alternative for patients, leading to significant improvement in ocular surface quality, gland function and dry eye symptoms. The technology treats the root cause of the problem, provides immediate relief and is a safe and comfortable, fast lunch time treatment.

13 M22 OPT is the right choice for patients Lunch Hour Treatment for Dry Eyes with new Advanced Technology Dr Saurabh Mittal Ophthalmologist Dry eye disease is a common condition that causes ocular discomfort and reduces visual acuity. Dr Saurabh Mittal, Ophthalmologist, Thind Hospital, Jalandhar talks about M22 OPT technology and its benefits in treating a dry eye condition The two categories of dry eye disease are evaporative dry eye and aqueous-deficient dry eye. Both conditions can involve pathology of the meibomian glands, lacrimal glands, lids, tear film, and surface cells Evaporative dry eye accounts for 80% of dry eye cases. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is the leading cause of evaporative dry eye and contributes to aqueous-deficient dry eye. Meibomian glands are modified sebaceous glands located along the upper and lower eyelid margins. Twenty to Forty glands are located along each lid and secrete meibum, the lipid component of tears. MGD is defined by the International Workshop on Meibomian Gland Dysfunction as a chronic, diffuse abnormality of the meibomian glands, commonly characterized by terminal duct obstruction and/or qualitative/quantitative changes in the glandular secretion." Patients may experience symptoms of eye irritation and clinically observable ocular surface disease and inflammation due to alteration of the tear film. The goal of MGD therapy is to provide long-term improvement of symptoms for patients by improving the quality of meibum, increasing meibum flow, improving tear film stability, and decreasing inflammation. Commonly used therapies include preservative-free drops, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation, topical cyclosporine serum tears, topical azithromycin, oral doxycycline,

14 moisture chambers, intraductal probing, lid margin exfoliation, automated thermal pulsation, warm compresses, and others. Despite the variety of treatment options available, patients often do not experience complete or long-term relief of symptoms. The experience with IPL over the last 6 months period in 110 patients suggest s that it is safe and effective treatment for MGD related dry eye even in Asian Indian population. It is found to be effective in 60-70% patients and shows improvement in symptom score and disease characteristics in 60 % of cases 2-3 weeks following the first treatment. M22 OPT Intense pulsed light (IPL) devices have long been used in the field of dermatology to treat acne rosacea, acne vulgaris, hyperpigmentation, essential telangiectasias, unwanted hair, and photodamaged skin. IPL is a high- intensity light source consisting of visible light in the wavelength range of 515 to 1200 nm. The light is both polychromatic and incoherent. Lumenis M22 with OPT is an excellent advanced IPL technology for treating eyelid inflammation. M22 combines unique optimal pulse technology (OPT ) to treat dry and itchy eyes. OPT is selectively absorbed in the haemoglobin of abnormal blood vessels, and destroys them by thrombosis. A major source of inflammation threatening the eyelids is then removed. Most patients with dry eye undergoing M22 OPT receive this treatment as a last resort after trying several other therapies. They often have severe MGD and few to no expressible glands. It is postulated that oxyhemoglobin in blood vessels located on the surface of the skin absorbs light emitted from the flash Lamp. The absorption generates heat that coagulates the red blood cells, leading to thrombosis of the blood vessels. Given the proposed mechanism of IPL, patients with ocular rosacea and associated lid margin telangiectasias would be the best candidates for treatment. Treatments are spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart, and patients typically receive 1 to 4 treatments with no established limit on the number of treatments. M22 OPT is the right choice for patients. It treats the root cause of the problem, provides immediate relief, safe and comfortable, fast lunch time treatment and improves the skin appearance too. This article has been authored by Dr Saurabh Mittal Ophthalmologist, Thind Eye Hospital, Jalandhar

15 Grover Eye Hospital introduces Lumenis M22 Optimal Pulse Technology for Dry Eye in Chandigarh Grover Eye Laser & ENT hospital Chandigarh, has introduced for the first time in the region the Lumenis M22 Optimal Pulse Technology (OPT) for treatment of dry eyes. This latest eye care technology is a great revolution in the treatment of eyelid MGD and Dry Eyes. Lumenis Inc is the world s largest energy-based medical device company and is renowned for technological breakthroughs ophthalmic lasers and a long list of industry gold standards. Studies show that humans generally blink about 22 times a minute. But when we concentrate on a computer screen or a smartphone or even while driving, the rate goes down to five or seven blinks per minute. If this tear film does not spread sufficiently across the eye, it can lead to dryness and irritation. In addition, many other conditions also cause Dry Eyes, the number one cause of eye disorders today. Dr Rohit Grover, Senior Ophthalmologist said Dry eye is most common problem in eye OPD patients today. So far only eye drops gave some temporary relief. With the introduction of innovative M22 OPT technology, we are quite confident that we will be able to give the best treatment for Dry Eye to the patients in India also. Patients with dry eye often complain of multiple symptoms like pain, heaviness, foreign body sensation, redness, light sensitivity and reflex watering due to corneal irritation. They also have feeling of burning eyes, stinging, grittiness and tired eyes. Mr. Dharmendra Mistry Country Head of Lumenis India, said Till now, there was no treatment or any permanent solution available for dry eyes. Our path breaking technology will help address the growing dry eye disease among thousands of people. The company has also developed a practice enhancement program for clinics as it foresees rapid increase in demand for dry eye treatment with OPT technology. We continue to invest in our training and education platforms to ensure that increasing number of patients benefit from the latest OPT technology, Mr Mistry, said. Meibomian Gland dysfunction (MGD) is one of the leading causes of dry eye disease (DED), affecting millions of people worldwide. Optimal pulse technology from Lumenis has emerged as the most effective alternative for patients, leading to significant improvement in ocular surface quality, eyelid gland function and dry eye symptoms. Mr. Navkaran Singh Chimni, Senior Director- Medical Business (India & South Asia), Lumenis said, Lumenis Inc is known for inventing the first ever laser for ophthalmic use and we are proud further to introduce yet another revolutionary technology M22 OPT which helps us in addressing the Dry Eye condition which is increasing day by day due to the lifestyle changes and strong dependency on the smart phones and laptops. The Lumenis M22 OPT is an excellent technology for treating eyelid inflammation. OPT is selectively absorbed in the hemoglobin of abnormal blood vessels, and destroys them by thrombolysis. A major source of inflammation threatening the eyelids is then removed. It treats the root cause of the problem, provides immediate relief, a safe and comfortable, fast lunch time treatment and improves the skin appearance too.

16 Grover Eye Laser Hospital Press release news has been covered in various regional print editions.

17 Press Release. An encyclopaedia to the Dry Eyes condition : Dr. Rohit Grover It is common, today, to find people glued to their mobile screens than ever before. This, among many other reasons, has led to an unprecedented increase in the number of Dry Eye cases, which is the most common problem in eye OPD patients. Dry Eye can be defined as a collection of symptoms that make up an eye condition stemming from an imbalance in the quantity or quality of tears bathing the eye. Just to think of it, tears aren t just for display of emotions. They play a much bigger role! They are responsible for keeping our eyes healthy and providing us with a clear vision. The condition of Dry Eyes can be identified through various symptoms. These symptoms include dry, red, gritty, and even watery eyes. Often, Dry Eye sufferers report the feeling of something foreign within the eye or eyestrain. This is again because of paucity of tear production which hinders proper lubrication of eyes and hydration of the cornea. The balance of tear production and tear loss [through drainage and evaporation] maintains the moisture level in the eyes. When this balance is not sustained, dry spots appear on the surface of the eye and cause irritation. A healthy eye constantly produces tears that lubricate. Excessive tears occur when a foreign body irritates the eye or when a person cries. HOW CAN ONE KNOW THAT THEY ARE SUFFERING FROM THIS CONDITION? Early signs of dry eye are: 1. An occasional burning sensation in the eyes when in areas of low humidity or high pollution 2. A gritty sensation in the eyes, which is persistent and painful 3. Decreased tolerance of contact lenses 4. In extreme cases of dry eye, patients may become unusually sensitive to light, experience severe eye pain, or notice diminished vision 5. Stringy mucus in or around the eyes 6. Eye irritation from smoke or wind 7. Excess tearing In order to move towards a proper and effective treatment of this condition, it is important to understand how our eyes reach this condition. There are many different things that cause dry eye syndrome. The normal aging of tear glands, as well as specific diseases and disorders, may cause changes in the amount and condition of tears produced. Decreased sensitivity of the cornea can also lead to insufficient production of tears.

18 Some types of contact lens wear can bring on this lack of sensitivity. Excessive evaporation of tears can also cause dry eye syndrome. Such evaporation may be caused by meibomitis, which results from infection and inflammation of the meibomian glands in the eyelids. People with unusually large eyes, as well as those who suffer from thyroid disease, may also experience dry eye syndrome caused by excessive evaporation. Dry eye can also result from unusual facial anatomy or irregularities in the cornea, resulting in uneven or inadequate tear coverage of the eye. HOW IS DRY EYE DIAGNOSED? We are able to diagnose dry eye by examining the eyes. Sometimes tests that measure tear production may be necessary. One test, called the Schirmer tear test, involves placing filter-paper strips under the lower eyelids to measure the rate of tear production under various conditions. Another uses a diagnostic dye (fluorescein or Rose Bengal) to look for certain staining patterns. HOW ARE DRY EYES TREATED? Depending on the causes, Dry Eye Syndrome can be treated as a temporary problem or a lifelong disease requiring long-term treatment. Either way, tears must be conserved or replaced in order to provide relief. Treatment by adding tears Artificial tears are probably the most common forms of treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome. These Eye drops are similar to your own tears. They lubricate the eyes and help maintain moisture. Preservative-free eye drops are available if you are sensitive to the preservatives in artificial tears. Latest Treatment by technology A more efficient and long-lasting way of getting rid of this condition is the Lumenis M22 OPT Technology that promises to effectively provide relief to the patients from this tedious condition. The reason being it uses a unique combination of unique optimal pulse technology to treat dry and itchy eyes. This technology enables selective absorption of the pulse light in the haemoglobin of abnormal blood vessels and destroys them by thrombosis. M22 OPT is the right choice for patients. It treats the root cause of the problem, provides immediate relief, safe and comfortable, fast lunch time treatment and improves the skin appearance too. The 10 commandments to follow in order to avoid or not escalate the Dry Eye condition: 1. A person with dry eye should avoid anything that may cause dryness, such as an overly warm room, hair dryers, wind or a direct fan / air conditioner draft. Smoking is especially bothersome 2. Some people with dry eye complain of scratchy eyes when they wake up. Using an artificial tear ointment at bedtime can treat this symptom or just blink more 3. Wind, Dust, Smoke, Plant Pollen exposure is to be avoided 4. In case of Dry Air Exposure: (Heater / A.C. both can affect), use glasses / Photochromic Goggles full-time. 5. Infrequent Blinking of Eyes is another thing you should avoid by reducing TV / Mobile / Computer Use 6. Regular use of goggles / sun-glasses / glasses helps to avoid exposure. Helmet Visor if Driving / riding scooter / two-wheeler. Avoid Car A/C or heater air at face. 7. Avoid medicines for High B.P. like Atenolol (AT), Clonidine, Metoprolol, Propranolol, Tenolol, Betaloc (Beta Blockers) Consult physician for change 8. Avoid Eye drops with strong preservatives. 9. Do not wash eyes too frequently. Instead, cold compresses your eyes 10. Avoid Pain / Joint Pain medicines like: Ibuprofen/ Ketoprofen / Combiflam / Brufen / Indomethacin / Diclofenac / Voveran etc This article has been authored by Dr. Rohit Grover Ophthalmologist, Grover Eye Laser & ENT Hospital For more information & feedback, please disha.upadhyaya@lumenis.com. You can also call us at