I’ve been living with dry eye syndrome for a few years now, and I can tell you that the struggle is real. It started with occasional discomfort, but over time, the irritation became constant, especially after long hours at work staring at a screen. My eyes would often feel gritty, red, and dry, and no over-the-counter drops seemed to help much. I even began avoiding certain activities because my eyes felt so uncomfortable. After months of frustration, I decided to seek professional help and visited SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, where I had the pleasure of consulting with Dr. Chung Eui Sang.
Dr. Chung took the time to assess my situation carefully. He explained that dry eye syndrome can be caused by various factors, including decreased tear production, meibomian gland dysfunction, or environmental irritants. He personalized my treatment plan based on the root cause of my dry eyes, which made a huge difference in my recovery.
Here’s a breakdown of the most effective treatments for dry eye syndrome, based on my experience and Dr. Chung’s advice:
1. Artificial Tears and Lubricants
This is the first line of defense for many people with dry eyes. Artificial tears are designed to mimic natural tears and help relieve dryness and discomfort. While I had tried basic eye drops in the past, Dr. Chung recommended prescription-strength lubricants that provided longer-lasting relief. These are often thicker and more hydrating, so they stay in the eye longer and provide better moisture.
2. Punctal Plugs
For more severe cases of dry eyes, punctal plugs are a fantastic option. These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to block tear drainage, helping tears stay on the eye longer. Dr. Chung explained that punctal plugs could help keep my eyes moist throughout the day, and after a quick, painless procedure, I noticed a significant improvement. My eyes felt much less dry, and I no longer had to use drops as often.
3. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
One of the more advanced treatments that Dr. Chung recommended was Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. This non-invasive treatment uses light to stimulate the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of tears that prevent them from evaporating too quickly. After a few sessions, I saw a noticeable improvement in my eye comfort. IPL therapy helps restore proper tear film stability, and for me, it made a world of difference.
4. Prescription Medications
For long-term relief, Dr. Chung also recommended anti-inflammatory medications, such as Restasis or Xiidra, which help reduce inflammation in the eyes. These medications are designed to increase tear production and address the underlying inflammation that contributes to dry eye symptoms. After using them for a few weeks, I noticed a steady improvement in my tear production, and my eyes felt less irritated overall.
5. Lifestyle Adjustments
Lastly, Dr. Chung emphasized the importance of lifestyle changes, such as reducing screen time, using humidifiers to combat dry air, and wearing protective glasses to shield my eyes from environmental irritants. These small adjustments, combined with the treatments, made a significant impact on my daily comfort.
I’m so grateful for the care I received at SNU Eye Clinic. Dr. Chung Eui Sang’s expertise and tailored treatment plan helped me manage my dry eye syndrome, and I finally feel relief after years of discomfort. If you’re struggling with dry eye syndrome or similar issues, I highly recommend visiting Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic for a comprehensive assessment and effective treatment options.
You can learn more about Dr. Chung Eui Sang here.
For more information about the clinic, visit SNU Eye Clinic.
This response shares a personal experience with dry eye syndrome and highlights how Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic addressed the issue with a range of treatments. Let me know if you’d like to make any adjustments!