TearCare: What to Know About This Dry Eye Solution
Dry eye affects millions of people around the United States. Although it may not seem like a serious problem, it can impact your day-to-day life and make it difficult to work or enjoy your favorite hobbies. Although traditionally eye drops has been the preferred treatment for dry eyes, TearCare is an exciting new treatment that can improve dry eye with a quick in-office treatment. Here’s what to know about this option and how it can help alleviate symptoms.
What Causes Dry Eyes?
Dry eyes occur when the eyes don’t produce enough tears. Normally, the tear glands around the eyes keep them moistened and protected, but factors like aging, underlying conditions, medications, or contact lens use can cause the eyes to dry out. Although eye drops can sometimes alleviate symptoms, they may not be able to fully treat dryness.
Dry eyes can also be caused by a condition called Meibomian Gland Disorder (MGD). The meibomian glands are located on the rim of the eyes and produce meibum, an oily protectant that prevents the eye’s tear film from evaporating. MGD occurs when these glands become blocked and don’t produce meibum, allowing the tear film on the eyes to evaporate. Without the natural tear film, the eyes can become dry and irritated.
What is TearCare?
TearCare is an in-office treatment that can prompt your eyes to naturally produce more meibum. TearCare applies gentle heat to the area using comfortable, uniquely shaped pieces that fit your eyes and still allow you to blink. This comfortable heating process helps unblock the meibomian glands and allow for meibum to flow more effectively and reform a healthy tear film. This very quick treatment can take only 15 minutes – it’s also completely pain-free and allows you to keep your eyes open the entire time.
How Many Treatments Do I Need?
TearCare is incredibly effective at providing dry eye relief. In fact, most patients enjoy results for 6-12 months at a time, and treatment can be repeated once or twice per year as needed. Our providers can develop a complete care plan using this and other dry eye options to help you enjoy long-lasting results.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re tired of living with dry eyes and want long-term solutions, our team can help. To schedule an appointment at any of our Boston area locations, contact us by calling or booking online.
