Cure dry eyes with these two root-cause treatments recommended by ophthalmologist

Using lubricating eye drops to treat dry eyes offers short-term relief only. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

• Dry eye disease is rising due to screens, pollution, and lifestyle factors
• New therapies like Lumecca IPL and Forma-I target root causes, not just symptoms
• Both treatments are non-invasive, outpatient, and improve tear film stability

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Prolonged screen time, air-conditioned environments, pollution, stress, hormonal changes, and certain medications are today increasingly contributing to a rise in dry eye disease. Once considered a minor discomfort, it is now recognised as a chronic condition that can interfere with vision, work performance, and daily life.

Dry eye is no longer just a minor irritation, says Ophthalmologist Dr Parul Sony, Founder and Director, Complete Eye Care, Gurugram. “It affects visual comfort, tear film stability, and the quality of life.” Dry eye disease, she adds, frequently arises from meibomian gland dysfunction, in which the glands that secrete the oily layer of the tear film become blocked or underperform. “This leads to rapid tear evaporation, burning, redness, blurred vision, and eye fatigue.” Traditional treatments, such as lubricating eye drops, provide short-term relief but do not restore normal gland function.

Speaking about two modern therapies; Lumecca IPL and Forma-I, Dr Sony says, “They aim to treat the root causes of dry eye. Lumecca IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) delivers targeted light around the eyelids, reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and treating abnormal blood vessels that contribute to chronic dry eye.” It also lowers bacterial load along the eyelid margins, supporting healthier gland function.

On the other hand, Forma-I uses controlled radio-frequency heat to warm the eyelids. This softens thickened oils in the meibomian glands, restoring normal secretion and improving tear film stability. Both treatments are non- invasive, outpatient procedures, and patients may notice improvement after a few sessions.

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Dr Sony shares why these treatments effective

Non-invasive and painless

Both therapies require no downtime and can be performed alongside normal daily activities.

Targeting the root cause

Instead of just lubricating the eyes, these treatments address meibomian gland function, reducing tear evaporation and chronic symptoms.

Reduce inflammation

“Studies show that IPL and heat-based therapies improve tear film stability, reduce inflammation, and decrease dependence on artificial tears,” explains Dr Sony.

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Reduce the risk

Complementary measures, such as eyelid hygiene and deep cleaning, stabilise the tear film and reduce the risk of recurring dry eye, while also supporting eyelid skin health.

Apt for modern lifestyles

These approaches are particularly useful for people exposed to prolonged screen use, air conditioning, and environmental stressors, addressing lifestyle-related contributors to dry eye.

FAQs on dry eye:

1. What is dry eye?

Dry eye is a condition where the eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly.

2. What are common symptoms of dry eye?

Burning, redness, irritation, blurred vision, and a gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes.

3. What causes dry eye?

Prolonged screen use, ageing, contact lenses, air conditioning, and certain medications.

4. How can dry eye be managed?

Use lubricating eye drops, take screen breaks, and protect eyes from dry air.

5. When should I see a doctor for dry eye?

If symptoms persist, worsen, or affect daily activities, consult an eye specialist.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.