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Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome & Swim Goggles

Posted on October 7, 2011, 2:15 pm by Dr. Virginia Donati

Posted in Dry Eye

Barbara wrote:

I have been diagnosed with chronic dry eye syndrome. The only time my eyes really bother me is at night time when I wake up several times in severe pain. Wearing swimming goggles really help me, they seal in all the moisture and I don't feel any pain. However, I have heard that it isn't a good thing to wear them all night. I have tried other nightwear protection and nothing else seems to work. thanks

Dr. Virginia Donati's response:

Hello Barbara,
I’m sorry you’re suffering with this frustrating condition.
Some alternates that you may consider trying are:
Wearing a sleep mask that’s tight enough that it holds your eyes tightly-closed (sometimes the eyes dry out because your eyes are slightly open while you sleep)
Instill a thick tear-gel into the eye just prior to sleep and immediately upon wakening.
 
Also ensure that you’re generally staying hydrated, and taking an omega3 supplement. Some newer research is suggesting that using a steroid eye drop can reduce inflammation on your eyes and help the discomfort, so ask your optometrist if this therapy is suitable for you.
Another suggestion would be to pursue punctal plugs.  These are small collagen inserts placed into 2 of the little holes that drain the tears away from your eyes.  This non-invasive procedure allows the tears to be held on the ocular surface longer before being drained.  Feel free to ask your optometrist for more information.
 
I hope one or more of these suggestions is helpful to you.
Best of luck,
Dr. Donati

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