Dry eye is a type of ocular surface disease affecting millions worldwide. It occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears produced are of poor quality. Dry eye can cause discomfort, redness, and even vision problems if left untreated.
Fortunately, several treatments are available, including the use of punctal plugs. Punctal or tear duct plugs are tiny, biocompatible devices inserted into the tear ducts to block the drainage of tears from the eye. By doing so, they help to keep the eye lubricated and moist, reducing the symptoms of dry eye.
Punctal plugs are usually made of silicone or collagen and come in various sizes to fit different tear ducts. They are one of the more common dry eye solutions. They are also known as occluders, punctum plugs, or lacrimal plugs.
More InformationPunctal plugs are typically used when other treatments for dry eye have failed. Your eye doctor may recommend punctal plugs if you have chronic dry eye and experience symptoms regularly. They may also recommend punctal plugs if you have dry eye due to a medical condition, such as Sjögren’s syndrome, or as a side effect of medication.
Before inserting punctal plugs, your eye doctor will perform a thorough eye exam to determine the cause and severity of your dry eye. They will also determine which size and type of punctal plug will be most appropriate for your specific needs.
The procedure to insert punctal plugs is quick and painless. Your eye doctor will use a numbing drop to minimize any discomfort. They will then insert the plug into the tear duct using a small instrument. The plug will remain in place until it naturally falls out or is removed by your eye doctor.
Overall, punctal plugs are an effective dry eye treatment option for people suffering from dry eye. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, it is important to consult with your eye doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you. With the proper treatment, you can manage your dry eye and enjoy clear, comfortable vision.
Call today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Julie McLaughlin, our dry eye specialist. Dr. McLaughlin specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ocular surface diseases and dry eye syndrome. Patients value the time she takes to educate them about punctal plugs as well as other treatment options for dry eye. Dr. McLaughlin looks forward to tailoring a plan to improve your dry eye symptoms.
Dry eye relief is just a phone call away! Call now to schedule your appointment.
Call NowLehigh Eye Specialists is an industry leader in providing diagnoses and surgery for retinal diseases and conditions. Our dry eye specialist, Dr. McLaughlin provides clients with unparalleled care.
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