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Anterior Segment, Ocular Surface Disease
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Dry Eye – Can You Cry?

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Published Online: Feb 3rd 2020 European Ophthalmic Review. 2019;13(2):81–6 DOI: https://doi.org/10.17925/EOR.2019.13.2.81
Authors: Teifi James, DO, FRCP, FRCS, FRCOphth
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Abstract
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Abstract:
Overview

Ocular surface discomfort is often attributed to the symptoms of dry eye, but conditions affecting the lacrimal gland are uncommon. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is extremely common and is a characteristic feature of many patients with dry eye symptoms. Most ophthalmologists choose some type of lubricant artificial tear drop as first-line treatment for dry eye symptoms, but this paper questions the rationale for this decision. Patients who can cry, or produce tears from any stimulus, demonstrate lacrimal gland function. This paper considers the rationale for employing a safe, effective, biodegradable warm compress as first-line treatment for MGD and associated dry eye symptoms.

Keywords

Dry eye, meibomian gland dysfunction, Sjögren syndrome, blepharitis, warm compress, EyeBag®, anthropocene

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Disclosure

Compliance with Ethics: This study involves a review of the literature and did not involve any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors. All images published with full patient consent and permissions. All photographs taken by the author.

Review Process

Double-blind peer review.

Authorship

The named authors meets the International
Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) criteria
for authorship of this manuscript, takes responsibility
for the integrity of the work as a whole, and has given
final approval for the version to be published.

Correspondence

Teifi James, The EyeBag Company, Unit 5, Calderdale Business Park, Club Lane. Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX2 8DB, UK. E: eyebag@me.com

Support

No funding was received for the publication of this article.

Received

18 November 2019

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