BlephEx® is an FDA approved, in-office procedure to treat blepharitis and reduce dry eye symptoms. Blepharitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by an overgrowth of natural bacteria along the base of your eyelashes. It often leaves patients suffering from red, sore eyelids with crusty debris at the base of their eyelashes. The Blephex treatment uses cleanser and a highly specialized device to gently scrub the base of your eyelashes.
Our own Dr. Jennifer Redmond recently received a Blephex treatment to help her own dry eye symptoms. She let us photograph her experience and also answered a few questions that some of our patients may have about the procedure.
Q: Do you suffer from dry eye?
A: Yes! Which is why I’m such a believer in treating dry eye for my patients as well.
Q: What else do you do to treat your dry eye?
A: I take PRN Omega 3. I do the liquid because I do not do well swallowing pills.
Q: Why did you decide to try Blephex?
A: I have dry eyes, myself, but I also wanted to experience what my patients experience as well.
Q: Was the Blephex treatment painful?
A: It was not painful, but it did tickle… a lot!
Q: How long did it take?
A: It took about 20 minutes for the treatment.
Q: How did you feel afterwards?
A: Within 1 hour I could feel a sensation of more moisture on my eyes. I was able to continue working shortly after the treatment.
Q: What do you want patients to know about Blephex?
A: That it removes a “bio film” from your eyelid margins, like an ultrasonic cleaning. I would also like for them to know that there are so many treatments for dry eye that you do not need suffer with it!
WHAT CAUSES DRY EYE DISEASE?
Many Coloradoans suffer from dry eye due to our arid environment and other causes such as
- Digital device use
- Air Pollution
- Environment: wind, cold, dry air, altitude
- Aging
- Contact lens wear
- Hormonal changes in women
- Medications
- Laser vision corrective surgeries as well as cataract surgery
- Sjogren’s Syndrome
Highline Vision Center offers a number of treatments available for patients who suffer from Dry Eye Disease (DED), also known as Ocular Surface Disease (OSD). In its early stages, more than 50% of those with the condition do not report any symptoms. When DED is identified early while in its mildest forms, it is easier to treat. Early treatment also helps slow the progression of the disease.
Learn more about Blephex here.
If you are concerned about your own dry eye symptoms, call us today to schedule a comprehensive eye health examination. Your Highline Optometrist can discuss what treatments might work best for you.
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The Highline Vision Center team is looking forward to seeing you soon. Our practice utilizes state-of-the-art technology to deliver personal and comprehensive eye care for your entire family.