Dry Eyes

Introduction: Why Dry Eyes Need a Fresh Perspective

Dry eye syndrome affects an estimated 20–34% of adults

At Patients Medical in New York City, we look beyond artificial tears. Our integrative approach—combining ophthalmology with functional and holistic medicine—focuses on root causes like gland dysfunction, inflammation, nutrition, and environment to restore healthy tear production and comfort.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) occurs when tear production is insufficient or tears evaporate too quickly

Symptoms may include:

  • Dry, itchy, and red eyes
  • Gritty or burning sensation
  • Blurred vision and light sensitivity
  • Reflex tearing that doesn’t relieve discomfort

Common types:

  • Evaporative (often due to meibomian gland dysfunction/MGD)
  • Aqueous-deficient (reduced tear production)
  • Mixed forms commonly co-exist

Common Symptoms of Dry Eyes

Root Causes: Why Are Your Eyes Dry?

Functional medicine reveals underlying triggers:

  • Meibomian gland dysfunction: clogged oil glands that destabilize tear film
  • Hormone imbalance: especially androgens and thyroid hormones
  • Nutrient deficiencies: omega‑3s, vitamin A, D
  • Gut dysbiosis/inflammation impacting systemic and ocular health
  • Environmental stressors: low humidity, airflow, screens
  • Stress and poor sleep visibly exacerbate ocular inflammation
  • Medication side effects and autoimmune conditions: Sjögren’s, antihistamines, SSRIs

Diagnostic Approach at Patients Medical

We use advanced testing to tailor treatment precisely:

Full eye exam with tear film and meibomian gland evaluation

Tear osmolarity & breakup time measurement

Schirmer’s tear-production test

Inflammatory markers and hormone panels

Nutrient level checks: omega‑3 index, vitamin A/D

Gut health + microbiome analysis

Integrative Treatment Strategies

Eyelid & Gland Therapy

  • Warm compresses + massage daily to unclog meibomian glands
  • In‑office gland expression and IPL for chronic MGD

Nutritional Support

  • High-quality omega‑3 intake (fish or flax oil) to nourish tear film
  • Antioxidants: vitamin A & D support epithelial health
  • Hydration and balanced electrolytes

Oral & Topical Nutraceuticals

  • Omega‑3 supplements
  • Castor oil or herbal remedies (eyebright, chamomile)
  • Topical mucin secretagogues like hyaluronic acid or lacritin analogs

Home & Lifestyle Adjustments

  • Blink breaks during screen use
  • Balanced humidity, protective eyewear, avoid irritants
  • Stress reduction (laughter exercises, mindfulness)
  • Screen work ergonomics

Hormone & Gut Optimization

  • Assess and correct hormone imbalances
  • Gut healing protocols to reduce inflammation

Advanced & In-Office Therapies

  • IPL, BlephEx eyelid cleaning
  • Punctal plugs to retain tears
  • Prescription drops: cyclosporine, corticosteroids
  • Autologous serum drops in severe cases

Real Case Study: An Integrative Success

Testing revealed MGD, low omega‑3, mild hormone imbalance, poor sleep. We implemented:

  • Daily warm compress and lid cleaning
  • Omega‑3 & vitamin A supplementation
  • Sleep hygiene & stress management
  • IPL session and punctal plugs

Results in 3 months:

  • 50% reduction in symptoms
  • Improved tear film stability
  • No longer reliant on drops

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, especially when caused by lifestyle, diet, or meibomian gland dysfunction. Our integrative methods help restore tear film balance and reduce inflammation.

We address root causes—gland health, nutrient levels, inflammation—using therapies like omega‑3s, warm compresses, and IPL, so your body naturally maintains moisture.

We use tear film analysis, gland imaging, hormone panels, and nutritional testing to personalize care.

Yes—imbalances in androgens, thyroid hormones, or estrogen can reduce tear production and gland function.

Absolutely. A leaky gut or dysbiosis can trigger systemic inflammation that affects tear production and eye surface health.

It’s a common cause of dry eye where oil glands in your eyelids are blocked, causing quick tear evaporation.

Yes—screen time reduces blinking rate, which dries out your eyes faster.

Omega‑3s, vitamin A, vitamin D, curcumin, and evening primrose oil are commonly used under physician guidance.

Yes—integrative care often works alongside conventional treatment for faster and more sustainable results.

We are an out-of-network provider but offer superbills for insurance reimbursement. Some labs and procedures may be partially covered.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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