Do you spend a lot of time in front of the computer screen ? If yes, you belong to the risk group of dry eye syndrome.

• Eye fatigue
• dryness
• soreness
• or even red eyes can occur

The eye surface contains a microscopic layer of tear film wich protects and moisturizes the eye. With each blink the tear film is renewed. Healthy human blinks 10-15 times per minute. Because of the computer screen, we blink up to 70% less. Eyes need moisture… the same way flowers do!

Eyeblink uses a webcam to monitor your blinks. Personnalized training helps you to blink more… Eyeblink protects your eyes… For more info, visit www.blinkingmatters.com/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss

Cet article Complex solution to dry eye syndrome. Blinking matters! est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.

Ziena Nereus Titan – Dry eye glasses and eyewear for dry eyes

Ziena eyewear helps relieve the burning, itching and redness caused by dry eye, without side effects or reactions with other medications and treatments

Dry eye glasses – Ziena

Ziena eyewear helps relieve the burning, itching and redness caused by dry eye, without side effects or reactions with other medications or treatments.

Cet article Ziena Nereus Titan – Dry eye glasses and eyewear for dry eyes est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.

One test for dry eye is known as the tears break up time test. The tear break up time test can provide an important measurement of how well the patient’s tear wet and protect the eye surface. For this test a small amount of fluorescine dye will be applied to the eye so that it mixes with the tear film. The patient is asked to blink and then asked to keep their eye open for the doctor to see. After each blink, the tear film will thin and evaporate, forming dry spots due to insufficient wetting of areas on the eye’s surface. While the patient holds their eye open, the doctor measures how long it takes for the first dry or dark spot in the tear film to appear, indicating that the tear film is breaking up. If tears break up occurs in a short time, it may be a indication of a dry eye.

Tear break up time  is a  test used to verify if you have evaporative dry eye disease.  For this test, a small quantity of fluorescein is instilled into the patient’s tear film and the patient is asked not to blink while the tear film is observed under a blue light.  The break up time is recorded as the number of seconds that elapse between the last blink and the appearance of the first dry spot in the tear film.  In general, a tear break up time test for dry eye under 10 seconds is considered abnormal.

Cet article Tear Break Up Time Test for Dry Eye est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.

Eye hydrating mask

Based on feedbacks, the Bruder Eye Hydrating Mask features new enhancements to make it even more effective.

Bruder Eye Hydrating Mask – Microwave-activated moist heat featuring patented MediBeads® technology.

• Soft adjustable strap
• Non-toxic and latex free
• Washable and reusable
• Naturally anti-bacterial
• No covers or pads needed
• Unique eye pod design
• Self-hydrating – No nee to add water

Mask for Dry Eyes

The new Bruder Eye Hydrating Mask professional model is a clinically proven and natural way to treat chronic dry eye, MGD and Blepharitis. The easy-to-use mask delivers an effective moist heat treatment in just minutes to improve patient compliance and procedural outcomes.

BRUDER MICROWAVE ACTIVATED MOIST HEAT products are a natural, proven way to bring relief to dry eye syndrome, styes, chalazions and blepharitis. Simply microwave and apply. A warm Bruder Moist Heat Mask helps unplug oil glands. This frees the oil in the glands to flow into the eyes and slows tear evaporation. There is no need to add water, no waiting and no mess … just fast acting relief.

The Bruder Eye Hydrating Mask and Stye Compress feature naturally hydrating MediBeads®.

Bruder Moist Heat Products:

• Replenish Moisture
• Refresh Eyes
• Relieve Dryness
• Reduce Inflammation
• Improve Meibomian Oil Gland Production
• Treat many types of eye irritations

Approximately 40 million people suffer from chronic dry eyes in the United States alone, and many don’t even realize it. As a professional, you are in a unique position to help these patients. You see the signs or symptoms everyday caused by aging, contact use, surgical procedures and other environmental factors. Now you can offer immediate relief from dry, irritated eyes with an effective and convenient solution.

This unique new Mask is fast acting and easy to use. It replenishes moisture and relieves dryness…simply and naturally. The Mask may be applied as often as needed and will not interfere with other prescribed or OTC medications.

The secret is the patented technology. Bruder Eye Hydrating Mask features MediBeads® which continuously absorb and store water molecules from the air. When microwaved, the clean, natural moist heat goes to work immediately to provide soothing relief. A heated Eye Hydrating Mask helps stabilize the tear film, improves oil gland function and slows tear evaporation. Properly hydrated and lubricated eyes can expel bacteria and debris more efficiently so your patients’ eyes will feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Patient friendly. The Bruder Eye Hydrating Mask is an easy to use and natural way to treat chronic dry eye, MGD and Blepharitis and helps improve patient compliance. After 20 seconds in the microwave, patients apply the Mask over their closed eyes for several minutes. The moist heat goes to work immediately to help slow tear evaporation. There is no need to add water, no waiting and no mess

Cet article Eye hydrating mask est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.

Moisture chambers – Dry eyes

While browsing the web in search of new information about dry eye, I came across this video on Youtube and I thought to share it with you. Essentially, that person makes us a demonstration of how she went about making herself a moisture chamber for her dry eyes during the night.

If you have dry eyes during the night and that your eyes are sore on awakening, you must find ways to keep your eyes moist and comfortable while sleeping. However, before doing anything, it is always suggested to check with your doctor or eye care professional if this type of moisture chambers are suitable for you and if it can help you relieve your dry eyes symptoms.

If this is recommended, you can see the amateur video of this person who shows us how she makes a moisture chamber mask for her dry eyes to keep them hydrated overnight. If your eyes do not close completely during sleep, if your dry eyes are caused by a dysfunction of the Meibomian glands or blepharitis or any other condition or disease, the use of a moisture chamber system can greatly help you not only during the night but eventually you will have fewer symptoms during the day because your eyes will have had a chance to recover better overnight.

Moisture chambers fo dry eye – how to make them

Cet article Moisture chambers – Dry eyes est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.

Ziena Eyewear for dry eyes Rx able

Dry eyes glasses

Ziena Eyewear for dry eyes Rx able

Don’t let dry eye limit your lifestyle. Enjoy the freedom of Ziena.

Give your eyes the extra protection they need with Ziena

SCULPTED FIT: The silicone shield is designed to rest gently on the skin, providing a safe and effective seal that blocks out harsh elements and holds in soothing moisture.

RX-ABLE: Ziena eyewear is sold only by authorized eye care professionnals. Prescriptions are available in all models.

WIRE-CORE TEMPLES: Ensure a secure adjustable fit

SPRING HINGES: For a comfortable fit

REPLACEABLE SHIELD: Nearly invisible when worn, unique silicone shield is easy to remove and replace.

NON INVASIVE: No surgery. No drugs

NO SIDE EFFECTS: Safe to use, either occasionaly or continuously.

FAST ACTING: Starts working as soon as you put them on.

RETAINS CORNEAL MOISTURE: Noticeable decrease in tear evaporation.

No matter what treatments you’re taking for severe dry eye symptoms, Ziena eyewear can help you experience greater comfort in all conditions.

Ziena offers severa models such as Nereus, Oasis and Verona. Moisture chamber spectacles with a discreet, removable eye cup made from a translucent soft silicone material.

Ziena dry eyes glasses can also be very effective for Sjogren’s syndrome or for those who live with symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of graves eye disease (Thyroid eye disease and hyperthyroid) It is one of the best way to relieve dry eye symptoms almost immediately either you have blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunctions or any other condition that can affect your eyes and makes them dry !

Cet article Ziena Eyewear for dry eyes Rx able est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.

Preferences for MGD treatments

As featured in Optician Magazine January 2015 edition

Dr. Mathew Schneiders and Mr Allon Barsam look at optometrist and patient preferences for a range of microwavable hot compress treatments for meibomian gland dysfuction

Figure 1: Proportion of patients selecting each device as their preferred option.

Dry eye disease affects up to 70 per cent of the population. 1,2 The most common cause of dry eye disease is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which is present in around 85 per cent of patients with dry eye disease. 3 Meibomian glands are modified sebaceous glands found within the tarsal plates of the eyelids. These glands produce the lipid layer that coats the tear film. MGD is primarily caused by terminal duct obstruction of the meibomian glands, which results in a poor quantity and/or quality of lipid secretion. Consequently, this may result in instability  of the tear film, increased tear evaporation, increased bacteria growth on the lid margin, blurred vision and ocular surface inflammation. 2

Treatment of MGD

The principal treatment for MGD is to heat and melt the oil in the glands and then to express the melted secretions from the eyelids. Tear film lipid layer thickness has been shown to increase by 80 per cent, in patients with MGD, after application of a 40 degrees celcius compress for at least four minutes, and improved by a further 20 per cent after 15 minutes of treatment. 4 A number of commercially available products have been launched to facilitate this process. These are primarily variations of microwavable grain-filled masks that are applied to the eyelids for a specified period of time.

Previously there have been publications on the efficacy of these microwavable devices. Bilkhu et al showed that these products can be safe and effective with patients reporting benefits lasting at least six months if aided by occasional retreatment. 5 Research from the University of Montreal 6 showed assessed efficacy of five commercially available microwavable hot compress devices. These are Bruder Moist Heat compress (Bruder healthcare), MGDRx (The eyebag company), The Eye Doctor (The body doctor), Eye essential mask (Therapearl) and Tranquileyes goggles (eyeeco). Their research showed that, out of the above, The Eye Doctor  device maintained the best optimum efficacy throughout the 10 minutes treatment.

Study

Our aim was to explore patients’ opinions and preferences regarding the most commonly available microwavable hot compress devices in the UK.  Optometrists in the south east of England were recruited to identify patients with dry eye disease. We provided samples of the MGDRx (The EyeBag Company), The Eye Doctor (The Body Doctor) and Blephamask (Altacor) and the patients were asked: “If all three cost the same and were equally effective which would you use ?” Patients were then asked to qualify their answers with the reason for their selection.

Six optometrists agreed to take part and between them 63 dry eye patients were asked about their preferences; 41 per cent of participants were male and 59 per cent were female, the average age was 60 years.

The Eye Doctor was selected by 67 per cent of patients as their preferred treatment device (Figure 1). The main reasons offered for selecting The Eye Doctor included the fact that it was the only option that hat a strap to keep it in place, it had a hygienic cover that was washable and that it had the best shape.

Seventeen per cent of patients selected the MGDRx. The main reason stated  for selecting MGDRx was the soft material and availability. Sixteen per cent selected the Blephamask. The main reason stated for selecting the Blephamask was its larger coverage of the eyes.

We also asked the opticians what their preferred device would be. Four of the six made a clear selection; 75 per cent preferred The Eye Doctor and 25 per cent selected the MGDRx. Their explanations echoed those of the patients.

Conclusion

The Eye Doctor was the preferred device for 67 per cent of patients and four of the optometrists in this study. This study focused on the practical and aesthetic influences that lid hygiene devices have on patient buying behaviour. Further studies combining efficacy, cost, and design would be welcomed. MGD is a chronic and often difficult to treat condition and as more products become available there will be a number of considerations optometrists and practice managers will need to make on what products to stock. The products with features that make it easier for patients to maintain compliance with treatment will excel.

SOURCE: AS FEATURED IN OPTICIAN MAGAZINE JANUARY 2015 EDITION

Cet article Preferences for MGD treatments est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.

Sjögren’s , identified by Swedish physician Henrik Sjögren in 1933, is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks the exocrine glands – the glands that produce moisture needed in the mouth, skin, eyes, vaginal area, gastrointestinal tract and respiratory tract. The glands that produces moisture are called exocrine glands. Among those glands, there is the lacrymal glands for tears production and the salivary glands for saliva production which is very important for digestive and oral health. We do not know the cause of Sjögren’s, however, genetic factors may increase the risk.

Sjögren’s is a relatively common autoimmune disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. The diagnosis is not easy and it can take a couple of years to be sure of the presence of the disease. Dry eyes and dry mouth are often present but many patient experience fatigue and joint pain. Because moisture is so vital to healthy bodily systems such as digestion and vision, the significant delay in managing the symptoms of Sjögren’s can result in serious complications, including damage to vital organs and systems throughout the body.

The symptoms includes:

• Dry, gritty or burning sensation in the eyes
• Difficulty talking, chewing or swallowing
• Sore or cracked tongue
• Dry or burning throat
• Dry, peeling lips
• Dry nose
• Vaginal and skin dryness
• Change in taste or smell
• Increased dental decay
• Digestive problems
• Joint pain
• Fatigue

The intensity of symptoms from Sjögren’s syndrome vary from one person to the other. Some will experience mild discomfort while others may be very affected in their quality of life, greatly impairing their daily functioning. Almost 90% of people who develop Sjögren’s are women and most diagnosis are established at around the age of 40-50 years old. Note that men and children can also be affected by Sjögren’s.

There is actually no cure for Sjögren’s. Treatments available may improve the quality of life and reduce the severity of the symptoms and prevent complications. Saliva substitutes and artificial tears may be used as well as moisture chamber glasses specifically designed for dry eyes.

Cet article Dry Eyes: Sjögren’s Syndrome est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.

The Eye Doctor

Hot eye compress for MGD (Blepharitis)

Meibomian gland dysfunction is the leading cause of dry eyes disease. But what is it exactly ? And how could this eye mask called the “Eye Doctor” relieves millions of people of their symptoms.

One of the commonest eye conditions we see in eye doctors offices is dry eye syndrome.

Common dry eyes symptoms is dryness and gritty. Patients complains that their eyelids are red and flaky and that they even burn sometimes. They also reports that they have frequent styes and blepharitis. People with dry eyes can also be more sensitive to bright light than normal eyes.

To lubricate the eyes and eyelids and prevent it to become dry, red and sore, we need the right type and the right amount of tears. In other words, healthy tear film!

Watery tears

Watery tears are produced in the lacrimal glands. Their pupose is to wash away any debris in the eye and assure us a smooth corneal surface to enable your eyes to focus. They also contains antibodies and antibacterial components to prevent infections. Watery tears wash across the eye and the tears are naturally washed away thru the tears duct located in the corner of the eyelids.

Oily tears

The second ingredient of tears is an important oil produced by glands located in the eyelids called meibomian glands. These glands are responsible for the oily outer layer of the tear film wich lubricate your eye and stop your tears from evaporating too quickly. When the meibomian glands become blocked, something called Meibomian glands dysfunction or MGD; dry eye syndrome is the result!

What is the best way to treat Meibomian gland dysfunction ?

The first and most important step is to use a warm eyelid compress designed to heat the eyelids, to increase oil production and to melt the oil that solidified inside the meibomian glands.

Eye Doctor Mask

The revolutionnary Eye Doctor Mask is placed over the eyes for 7 to 10 minutes. It can be heated in the oven or the microwave and has a washable cover for hygiene purposes. The comfort strap can be adjusted to suit the individual. The mask is reusable and can be stored in a handy travel pouch when not in use. Eye doctor mask is a essential first step for anyone suffering from these symptoms. This mask was even voted as #1 product in patient and optician preference test.

Eyelid massage

Step two of treatment is eyelid massage. Apply light pressure to the lid margin near the lash lines. Initially do this twice a day to get symptoms under control then once a day for maintenance.

Eyelid hygiene

Finally, complete your eyelid hygiene with eyelid wipes to remove any bacteria and debris and to stimulate oil production. The wipes are sterile and preservative and detergent free.

Omega 3

Try adding a little extra omega 3 essential fatty acid to your diet or take a supplement. Omega 3 helps to control dry eyes symptoms and improve oil consistency.

The Eye Doctor is a simple, ingenious and re-usable solution for a wide range of common eye conditions. Don’t suffer in silence, use Eye Doctor mask regularly for lasting relief.

Cet article The Eye Doctor – Hot eye compress for MGD (Blepharitis) est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.

 Nearly 41 million American adults wear contact lenses and virtually every single one is doing something to get germs in their eyes, a new federal survey shows.

And they’re paying for it. Nearly a third admit they’ve gone to a doctor because of red or painful eyes, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

Half or more of wearers admitted they slept or napped while wearing lenses. About 55 percent said they just topped off solution instead of changing it and rinsing the case. And 61 percent swam while wearing lenses.

And this survey only included adults. Teenagers may be even more likely to slip in their contact lens hygiene, CDC said.

“Approximately one third of contact lens wearers reported ever rinsing their lenses in tap water and 16.8 percent reported ever storing their lenses in tap water,” the CDC report reads.

More than 90 percent of people with rigid or “hard” lenses sometimes rinsed them in tap water, the team found.

“Even household tap water, although treated to be safe for drinking, is not sterile and contains microorganisms that can contaminate lens cases and contact lenses and cause eye infections,” CDC said.

“Contact lens wearers represent a significant proportion of the U.S. population, and their contact lens hygiene habits put them at risk for painful, costly eye infections that could lead to vision problems,” the report reads “Nearly one million U.S. health care visits for keratitis (inflammation of the cornea) or contact lens complications occur annually, at a cost of $175 million. The largest single risk factor for microbial keratitis is contact lens wear.”

The CDC recommends: washing hands with soap and water and drying them well before touching contact lenses; taking out contacts out before sleeping, showering or swimming; rubbing and rinsing contacts in disinfecting solution each time they are removed; and rinsing the case with contact lens solution, drying it and storing it upside down with the caps off after each use.

Cet article Contact lenses wearers, attention ! est apparu en premier sur Dry Eyes Store.