Dry Eye Syndrome treated by Salivary Gland Transfer

What is Dry Eye Syndrome ?

Dry Eye Syndrome (also known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) is one of the common problems seen among individuals. It is a kind of eye disease caused due to dryness in the eyes as a result of decreased tear production or increased tear film evaporation. It is said that dry eye syndrome is one of the most common eye disease seen among more that 5% population in the world.

The disease causes symptoms such as burning, dryness, eye irritation, scratchy, stringy or tired eyes etc. Some may even have a stringy discharge from the eyes. A strange fact about Dry Eye Syndrome is that, it sometimes causes eyes to water. Ageing is considered as one of the most common causes of dry eye syndrome. Other causes are:

  • Deficient tear production.
  • Excessive tear production.
  • Other diseases.
  • After effect of a lasik or other refractive surgeries.
  • Eye injury etc.

The disease is diagnosed by analysing the symptoms. In certain cases, some tests may also be suggested for the diagnosis.
What are the treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome ?

There are various treatments available to cure dry eye syndrome. In mild cases, over-the-counter eyed rops and other home remedies may be suggested. Certain other cases may require treating the underlying causes. Medications used to treat dry eye syndrome may include

antibiotics, eye drops that can control cornea inflammation etc. Surgeries are also done for:

  • Closing the tear ducts in order to reduce tear loss.
  • Unblocking the blocked oil glands etc.

What is Salivary Gland Transfer ?

The Salivary gland transfer is compratively new in treatments for dry eye syndrome. It is used in cases where damaged tear glands cause dry eye syndrome. Gel and drops are also used in such cases. But, they give only temporary relief from the issue. Those rare cases require transfer of salivary glands. It gives good results by secreting tears-like secretion in the natural form. This surgery is performed under local anesthesia.