How Is Dry Eye from Sjögren's Syndrome Treated?
It is important to treat the ongoing dry eye of Sjögren's syndrome. Otherwise, your eyes will remain irritated and very uncomfortable. In rare cases, they can become infected and scarred, affecting your vision.
Your eye doctor may recommend you use lubricating eye drops or ointments. These drops are important in keeping your tears from drying out too quickly. That way your eyes will stay moist longer.
There are other eyedrop medicines your doctor may prescribe. In some cases, drugs to treat autoimmune disorders may also be prescribed that will help improve the dryness.
If you have a problem with your meibomian glands (called meibomian gland dysfunction, or MGD), your doctor will treat this. Treating MGD will help your tears function properly.
To can help keep your eyes moist by:
- remembering to drink plenty of water,
- using artificial tears and ointments as often as your eye doctor recommends,
- using a humidifier in your home if the air is very dry,
- telling your eye doctor about any medicines you are taking (including allergy medicine), as they may cause dryness.