Continued Dry Eye Problems

Posted by Fr. Craig Botterill on July 28, 1999 at 00:13:43
I had lasik 7 weeks ago and have been suffering from extremely dry eyes since.  I have a foreign body sensation, as if I need to take my contacts out, which just won't go away, and develop "eye strain" type headaches by early afternoon each day which last for the duration of the day.  I am using Thera tears, which seem to be the only brand that brings temporary relief, and have had silicone punctal plugs put into the lower puncta.  The upper punctal duct in one of my eyes is naturally occluded and it sometimes wells up with tears.
I haven't noticed any improvement since my surgery, and this is begining to ruin my personal and professional life.  Will this heal? I would sincerely appreciate any comments or suggestions.
Thank-you.
Fr. Craig Botterill

Posted by HFHS MD - NI on July 29, 1999 at 01:13:44
You report an uncommon effect in some people after LASIK surgery.  It seems like you are being approptiately managed with artificial tears and punctal plugs.  You may want to consider having the final puncta plugged also.  Very frequent artifical tears may help.  Before changing any of your treatment, you should again discuss your case with your ophthalmologist.