Dry Eyes

Many people experience dry eyes, which result from a lack of fluid in the eyes. But for some patients with certain health conditions, dry eyes can be a more serious health risk.

At UT Southwestern Medical Center, our experienced eye doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating patients with dry eyes due to underlying health conditions. We offer the latest diagnostic techniques and treatments to alleviate symptoms and improve eye health.

What Are Dry Eyes?

Dry eye disease, also known as dry eye syndrome, is a common condition that occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to discomfort and, if left untreated, may damage the surface of the eyes.

UT Southwestern eye specialists have access to advanced diagnostic technologies and offer a range of treatments, from prescription medications to innovative therapies like eyelid thermal pulsation and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment.

The ophthalmologists and optometrists at our Advanced Dry Eye Specialty Clinic partner with experts across the medical center to personalize treatment plans that start with diagnosing a patient’s underlying condition.

How Are Dry Eyes Diagnosed?

Our doctors use leading-edge techniques to assess tear production, quality, and eye surface condition. Diagnostic tools we may use include:

• Tear osmolarity tests, to measure the salt concentration in your tears
• Meibography, to evaluate the meibomian glands, which produce the oil component of tears
• Schirmer’s test, to assess tear production by placing a small strip of paper under the lower eyelid
• Imaging tests, including topography or interferometry
• Corneal and conjunctival staining to detect surface damage

What Treatments Are Available for Dry Eyes?

The first line of treatment for dry eyes includes self-care therapy such as:

• Avoiding air blowing in or across your eyes
• Blinking more often
• Taking an eye break

In addition, we’ll often recommend treatments such as:

• Artificial tears
• Eye gel or ointment
• Warm compress
• Lid scrubs

If those don’t help, we offer more advanced treatments, including:

• Medication adjustment, if the medication is known to worsen dry eyes
• Prescription eye drops, including steroids
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to ease discomfort
• Autologous serum eye drops, made from your own blood, to fight inflammation
• Specialty contact lenses to protect the surface of the eye and trap moisture
• Eyelid thermal pulsation to unblock oil glands
• Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy to decrease inflammation