Changes in tears

Hi,

Compared to other people, I certainly do not have a major problem with my eyes! I have Sjogrens, and because of the extreme dryness in my eyes,  my ophthamologist inserted permanent punctal plugs in my lower lids. It did not seem to help, so she also put them in my upper ducts. That made a world of difference! My eyes are much more comfortable and moist, though there are times when they are too moist. It now seems to be causing irritation on the skin just below my eyes. It burns and is red. My tears feel "different" to me, as well. They don't seem to have any oiliness. Could the Ph of my tears have changed? Is this something I should just live with?

Thanks for your help!

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Yes things can get better or worse, medications can work for you or against you. Go in to see your Ophthalmologist. The plugs may be unseated, or the uppers may need to be removed or there may be an eyelid disorder like blepharitis.

JCH MD