Best regimen for dry eyes?

[alwaysimproving]

I am starting to develop dry eyes... For past 1.5 week I've been:
- Waking up with eye discomfort.
- Constantly "tired eyes"
- Increasing need for eye drops, when I have never put eye drops in the past.
- As the day progresses I get a clawing sensation in my eyes
- Mild eye redness
- Increased tearing now and then, which I understand can actually be a symptom of dry eyes.

I assume that this is just part of the progression of what could be Sjogren's.
I wanted to know:

- How well does Restasis work?
- Are there any longterm side effects of restasis?
- What eye drops do you recommend and how often a day do you use them?
- What are the advantages of restasis vs punctal plugs and how do you choose which to use?
- Are there any other things that you do that help with the dryness throughout the day?

I am scheduled to see an opthamologist mid-August.

Best,
AI

[Kathy57]

I use Genteal gel eye drops and use Genteal eye gel very liberally and especially at night.  I also take 2000 mg of Flaxseed oil and also 2000 of fish oil daily.

My eyes seem to be getting worse and vision seems worse.  I see the Opthmalogist in August.  My eyes have not been as problematic as my mouth and sinuses. Ive been lucky.

My eye doc told me he would order Restasis for me anytime I wanted it.  It may be time for me to break down and take it.  One more med.

Kathy

[Wal]

I use theratears drops with no preservatives and theranutrition omega3 supplements. I'm drinking more water and trying to incorporate more fruits and vegetables in my diet. May consider trying restasis but will need to call my eye doc