Lacrisert dry eye therapy

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Dry Eye Can Affect Males and Females of All Ages:

dry eye patient There are many possible causes of Dry Eye Syndrome. Only your doctor can perform an examination to determine whether you have Dry Eye Syndrome. It is important that you speak to your doctor about your symptoms so that he or she can determine whether your eye irritation is being caused by Dry Eye Syndrome or another problem.

According to the National Institutes of Health, common causes of dry eyes are:1

Dry Eye Symptoms May Include:

Lack of adequate tear film protection of the corneal surface may lead to corneal scarring which may impair vision.2

Watch Dry Eye Video

Treatment Options

There are several Over-the-Counter (OTC) treatment options available for patients with Dry Eye. “Artificial Tears” products are commonly used and are available in the form of drops, gels or ointments. Some patients may need to dose these products frequently throughout the day to achieve relief of their dry eye symptoms. In addition to the inconvenience of repeated dosing, some artificial tear products may contain preservatives. With extended use some patients eyes may become sensitive to the preservatives causing additional eye irritation and pain. Be sure to discuss with your physician which products you are using and how often.

Lacrisert is a unique once-daily*, preservative free, prescription medicine providing all day relief from the symptoms of Dry Eye. Lacrisert is indicated for use in patients with moderate to severe Dry Eye. Lacrisert is inserted into the pocket of the lower eyelid where it gently dissolves to provide lubrication and protection to the surface of the eye for all-day relief. In a clinical study, 78% of patients preferred Lacrisert over artificial tears.

Dry Eye Syndrome in Women

Dry Eye is common in women after menopause. It is not known if this is due to hormonal changes or the aging process.

Sjogren’s Syndrome

Another possible cause of dry eye symptoms is Sjogrens Syndrome. Sjogrens (show-grins) is a chronic disease in which white blood cells attack the moisture producing glands. The most recognizable symptoms are dry eyes and dry mouth. Sjogrens may affect many parts of the body and may also cause fatigue. According to the Sjogrens Syndrome Foundation, it is one of the most common autoimmune disorders, affecting as many as four million Americans.3

*Some patients may require the flexibility of twice daily dosing for optimal results. Update references as appropriate

1Feinberg, Edward B., ed. "Dry Eyes." MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. 14 Nov. 2005. National Institutes of Health. 3 Dec. 2007
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003087.htm

2“Dry Eye Syndrome.” WebMD. 2007. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Retrieved 29 Nov. 2007
http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/dry-eye-syndrome

3(2007). What is Sjrogren's Syndrome?. Retrieved November 29, 2007, from The Sjrogren's Syndrome Foundation Web site: http://www.sjogrens.org/syndrome/

For more information about Sjogren’s Disease, you can log onto the website of the The Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation  or see Additional Resources.