When your eyes are working optimally, they make enough tears, creating a healthy film that protects and nourishes the eye. When your eyes don’t make enough tears, it upsets the balance of the tear film, allowing it to break down and create dry spots on the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye). In some cases, you may develop a certain type of Chronic Dry Eye.

We decided to ask opthamologist Dr. Giyaur to tell us more about this condition and what we can do to alleviate it.

What is Chronic Dry Eye?

Chronic Dry Eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) is a medical condition that can result from the eyes’ reduced ability to produce tears and protect your eyes. Left untreated, it may damage the eye surface, weaken your vision, and increase the risk of eye infections.The most common reason for dry eyes is definitely allergies, but they can also be caused by blepharitis—a medical term for inflammation of the eyelids. I could say that out of all our patients complaining of excessive tearing, 80% develop dry eyes, allergies or blepharitis.

What causes dry eyes?

Sometimes, taking certain medication. In other instances, complications from thyroid malfunction or a vitamin A deficit can lead to the condition. Women are more susceptible than men, especially during menopause. Contact lenses and laser eye surgery are known to be a triggers. Use of air conditioner, heaters, and other devices that dry the air can play a part. And of course, I have to mention the extensive use of computers. Sometimes, just getting away from the computer monitor and engaging in real life more often could reduce your risk of developing this annoying syndrome.

What is the best treatment?

Chronic dry eye is not an easy condition to fight. It can be a recurring disease. Treatment is always best assigned on an individual basis. Fortunately, in our modern medical world, there are many options. I try to implement a combination of artificial tear drops and advanced medication. Moreover, I recommend that my patients exercise certain rules of hygiene. While washing your eyes, try using baby shampoo, for example, as it doesn’t irritate your eyes. A fish oil supplement and pre-medicated wipes can also help.  My advice to all computer users: try to blink more often while working on your PC. Don't rub your eyes, as that can worsen the irritation. Let your eyes rest periodically. Rest will keep them working better, longer—and what could be better than a healthy sparkle in your eyes!

 Call 888-808-5114

Julia Giyaur, MD

Board-certified, The American Board of Ophthalmology.

 Specialty:          

An ophthalmologist specializing in treatment of eye disorders and surgery of the eye, including no-stitch small incision cataract surgery, laser vision correction (LASIK), treatment of glaucoma and diabetic eye disease, as well as regular eye checkups and glasses and contacts. 

Training & Education

SUNY Downstate College of Medicine(Medical School)

Residency on Ophthalmology at North Shore University Hospital (Residency)

Internship in Internal Medicine at NYU Downtown Hospital.

Member of American Academy of Ophthalmology,

American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery,

New York Ophthalmologic Society.

Insurance:

All major insurance plans accepted.

1309 Ave P, Brooklyn, NY 11229