Diagnosing Dry Eye & Sjögren’s Syndrome

At Eye Institute, we can measure the quantity and quality of your tears to help determine the cause of your dry eyes. Your specialist will also evaluate your general health, any medications you are using, as well as other things that may affect your condition, such as whether you wear contact lenses or use a computer regularly.

If you think you may suffer from Dry Eye or Sjögren’s Syndrome, you should make an appointment with one of our eye specialists today.
 

Treatment

There are a number of treatments for dry eyes, but their effectiveness depends heavily on an accurate diagnosis. At Eye Institute, you’ll be seen by a doctor with experience in Dry Eye Syndrome, who will carefully assess your symptoms and design a personalised treatment plan for you.
 

The Lacrimal System

Treating dry eyes with artificial tears

Artificial tears are a good temporary solution to dry eyes. They can provide immediate relief, and are available without prescription. However, if you need to use eye drops more than three times a day, you should use preservative-free drops such as Bion Tears, Cellufresh, Polytears-Free or Refresh. Preservative-free drops are also safe to use with contact lenses.
 

’Natural’ eye drops for severe dry eyes

Eye Institute specialists pioneered the use of ‘autologous human serum eye drops’ in New Zealand. These special eye drops, made from a patient’s own blood serum, have been used as a sight-saving treatment in people with severe Dry Eye Syndrome.
 

Surgery for dry eyes: punctal occlusion

If your dry eyes cannot be relieved with eye drops, it may be necessary to reduce your tear drainage. A procedure called punctal occlusion can be used to permanently or temporarily close off your tear drainage channels, allowing you to retain your own natural tears, without the need for eye drops.
 

Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL)

Now available at Eye Institute, this simple and comfortable treatment has been shown to help relieve dry eye symptoms, particularly when associated with congestion of eyelid glands (Meibomian gland dysfunction).

Our specialists have carried out significant research into dry eyes, and have a great deal of experience in treating the condition. You’ll also benefit from our investment in the latest technology for diagnosing and treating Dry Eye Syndrome.