I went to a talk last week given by an ophthalmologist who specialises in dry eye. Afterwards we asked questions. As the presentation was given to an RA group, some there had Scleritis and most had secondary SS, which affects around 50% of those with RA.
I asked about neuropathy - which affects my entire body including my face and eyes. He said that this is a big problem as, unlike most of the others in the room, I probably wouldn't feel aware of the pain or grittiness of dry eye in same way, until too late. So I would need to administer topical eye meds frequently. I already do and always have since I started them. I'm an artist and my eyes, brain and hands are all.
He had brought along lots of eye treatments that he uses on his patients and special devices for administering them for those with arthritic hands.
When we were using the gel I use he explained that only a tiny amount needs to be applied and said that some are too lavish and then get put off using it because it smears everywhere and affects their vision. I told him that I use loads as I can't feel it otherwise and it doesn't affect my vision at all. He looked surprised and said my eyes must be extremely dry then. Afterwards I thought about this and decided that this is probably the reason opticians and eye doctors are always amazed at the excellent quality of my eye surface, despite the extent of my dry eye. I'm always told that I must "keep doing whatever your doing"!
So I thought I'd share this here in case it helps others who can are fortunate enough to be able to tolerate the active lanolin ingredients in the gels and ointments. It does mean eye make up is a no no though, but this seems a very small price to pay compared to suffering corneal ulcers and abrasions we were shown images of. ????
I also use a heated gel pack in the bath each night and massage each eye afterwards to keep my meibomean glands functioning and producing some oil.
Thanks for sharing this MAT,
Which gel do you use?
Quote from: Sharon on May 01, 2018, 01:10:51 PM
Thanks for sharing this MAT,
Which gel do you use?
I have several but I'm in Scotland so they might be different to yours if you're in the US? Since I was young I've used Lacrilube, then my optician suggested one called Artelac which I use once or twice a day in between hyloforte drops. But at night I've switched to VitA POS - which they gave me in the eye hospital as an alternative they prefer to Lacrilube.
You actually have an "eye hospital" in Scotland? Wow.
I can order most non-prescription eye gels and drops online.