DRY EYE: Bolstering the tear film

Let’s discuss interventions to improve the tear film.

By
Pamela E. Theriot, OD, FAAO
January 1, 2025
5 min

Optometric Management

Objective:

To address ocular surface issues in patients with dry eye disease (DED) to improve contact lens wear and overall eye health, emphasizing the importance of a robust tear film.

Approach:

Key Findings:

DED significantly decreases contact lens tolerability, impacting patient comfort.
MGD affects 30% to 60% of contact lens wearers, contributing to discomfort and reduced wear time.
Effective treatments exist for both increasing tear volume and improving meibomian gland function, enhancing overall ocular health.

Interpretation:

Addressing dry eye symptoms is crucial for enhancing contact lens wear and considering future refractive surgery options.

Limitations:

The article does not provide specific patient case studies or outcomes, limiting practical application.
Limited discussion on long-term effectiveness of the proposed interventions, which may affect treatment planning.

Conclusion:

Implementing the described strategies can help patients maintain comfortable contact lens wear and improve their ocular health, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.