Best Dry Eyes Doctors in Mysore

Dry eyes, also known as dry eye syndrome, commonly occur when the eyes do not produce sufficient tears or when the produced tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance often results in discomfort and potential damage to the eye’s surface. The susceptibility to dry eyes escalates due to exposure to harsh environmental factors, specific medications, or underlying health conditions such as collagen vascular disease and diabetes. The severity of dry eye symptoms can range from mild irritation to significant discomfort, interrupting daily activities, which may subsequently contribute to anxiety and depression.

In the city of Mysore, known for its variable climatic conditions ranging from hot summers to cooler winters, residents may experience an increased incidence of dry eyes. Thankfully, Apollo Hospitals in Mysore have highly trained dry eye syndrome doctors and the best ocular surface specialists, providing optimal care to patients suffering from this condition. The diagnostic tests for dry eyes will be discussed in subsequent sections.

Types/Stages of Dry Eyes

The progression of the dry eyes generally presents itself in two primary forms: 

• Aqueous-deficient: This occurs when the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough water for tears, leading to a deficiency.

• Hyperevaporative: This type is characterised by faster evaporation of tears due to an abnormality in the lipid (oil) layer causing an unstable tear film.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

The following symptoms are typically observed in individuals afflicted with dry eyes:

• A sensation of grittiness or foreign matter in the eyes.

• Excessive tearing is followed by periods of dryness.

• Persistent redness and inflammation of the eyes.

• Stinging or burning sensation in the eyes.

• Increased light sensitivity.

Tests to Diagnose Dry Eyes

At Apollo Hospitals, Mysore, the following common diagnostic tests are conducted by eye specialist doctors to ascertain dry eyes:

• Tear break-up time (TBUT) test: This checks the stability of the tear film.

• Schirmer’s test: Measures the volume of tear production.

• Osmolarity test: Assesses the concentration of solutes in the tears.

• Corneal fluorescein staining: Detects any damage to the cornea due to dry eyes.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Dry Eyes at Apollo Hospitals, Mysore

Apollo Hospitals in Mysore offers a comprehensive range of treatments for managing dry eye syndrome:

• Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears are used to supplement natural tear production.

• Punctal plugs: To conserve tears, our ocular surface specialists insert small silicon plugs into the tear ducts to prevent tear drainage.

• Medications: Drugs like corticosteroids and cyclosporine are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and stimulate tear production.

• Lifestyle modifications: Taking regular breaks from computer screens, protecting eyes from wind and dust, and maintaining a healthy diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can help manage symptoms.