Dry Eye Assessment

Wu & Partners Optometry Clinic had equipped an advanced technology called the OCULUS Keratograph® 5M. It helps our Optometrists in accurately diagnosing the Dry Eye Syndrome and documenting the findings. If treatment is necessary, we can compare the before and after treatment results to evaluate the success of the treatment.

(Tear film quality before and after dry eye treatment)

1) Quality and quantity of the tear film

To measure the quality and stability of the tear film, we can measures the tear film break up time non-invasively. This test takes less than 30 seconds and does not require touching the eye. To evaluate the quantity of the tear film, we takes a picture of the lower eyelid to measure the tear meniscus height.

2) Lipid Layer

By taking a movie of the oily layer of the tear film. A healthy and thick lipid layer is colorful and protects the tears from fast evaporation. If there is not enough lipid, the tear film becomes unstable, the moisture dissipates quickly and both vision and comfort can be compromised.

Healthy meibomian glands (left), Meibomian gland dysfunction (right)

3) Meibography

Located in both upper and lower lids, the meibomian glands produce complex oils that stabilize the tear film and prevent tear evaporation. If the meibomian glands do not function properly dry eye usually occurs. Our optometrist can utilize the advanced features of the Keratograph® 5M to directly assess the health of your meibomian glands.

(Reference from Oculus)

Dry Eye Treatment

Our optometrists will recommend different treatments to ease the dry eye problem based on their respective conditions

How are dry eyes treated?

• Artificial tear. The primary approaches used to manage and treat mild dry eyes. Preservative-free artificial tear solutions are recommended because they contain fewer additives, which can further irritate the eyes.
• Warm Compresses. A study out of Oxford University found that heating the lids about 9ºF significantly increased meibomian oil production, and result to relief the dry eye.
• Lid Massage. It can dramatically improve symptoms by helping re-establish tear film stability. The technique: Extend finger and apply light pressure. Roll the finger upward on the lower lid two times while in upgaze, then roll the finger downward on the upper lid two times while in downgaze.