Condition and Proposed Treatment
My Ophthalmologist has diagnosed me with dry eyes syndrome. Typical symptoms of this condition include burning and (paradoxically) watering and a sensation like something is in the eye. In many cases dry eyes are caused by the body’s failure to produce enough tears. Blocking the tear drainage system may improve symptoms by keeping more tears in the eye. Severe cases of dry eye may lead to infection and in rare cases, blindness or loss of the eye.
Alternatives
- Artificial tears or ointment – Lubrication increases moisture on the surface of the eye. Depending on severity, these over-the-counter drops and ointments may be applied several times daily for maximal comfort.
- Restasis – Used twice daily, this prescription eye drop increases production of the body’s own tears.
- Temporary punctum plugs – needs to be replaced every 2 weeks
- No Treatment – I may choose to do nothing and tolerate the symptoms of my dry eye condition.
Risks
- Infection – Any type of surgery can activate infection, the occurrence is very rare in this type of procedure.
- Excessive Tearing – In some cases, by plugging the punctum it may cause an overflow of tears. Your doctor may decide to reopen it in this situation.
- Irritation – minimum irritation and swelling can occur after the surgery, it should not last more than 2 days.
- Reopening of the punctum is possible and a second procedure will be necessary to close it.
Consent for treatment
By signing bellow, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the above and have had the opportunity to discuss this information with my doctor to my satisfaction. I consent to the permanent closure of the punctum of the: