Eye problems following chemo

[Jmhanshaw]

Like me, you might be having eye problems following chemo. Specifically, excessive tearing (tears constantly running from eyes). I saw two ophthalmologists and optometrists who just said my “glands” were stopped up but would not expound. I had to do all the research myself and finally understand the cause and treatment. The tearing is caused by blockage of Meibomian glands (located on the inside of the eyelids on top and bottom). The glands provide oil to the eyes to prevent tears from running from the eye. The situation is caused Meibomian Gland Disfunction which can lead to a diagnosis of Blepharitis. This is also called “DRY eyes”. I found a dry eye specialist, a optometrist, at the UC Berkeley School of Optometry, a Dr. ?Lin who did some very specialized testing and recommended treatment (warm compresses and expression of eyelids). There are also specialized devices treating this condition, like Lipiflow. There is much information online on this condition. Send me a message if you have questions. Jack Hanshaw

[kcamH]

I too just got back from the eye doctor except my problem is scarred closed tear ducts. Cutting open the ends didn't work since the entire ducts were scarred by Docetaxel. The only option is the installation of Jones Tubes - $AUD5,500. I can buy a lot of tissues for $5k.

Onward!

Mack

[Jmhanshaw in reply to kcamH]

Sounds like radical treatment. My doctor says warming and expression of the eyelids and using prescription eye drops should eventually cure the situation. My eyes seem to be getting better after a month and half. I am getting the Lipiflow treatment next month..

[larry_dammit]

Had the same thing going through chemo, but after chemo it got better with time. Was a real pain though 😡😡

[cmeek1]

A bit late now, but I read in previous posts that flushing with eye drops every 15 minutes during chemo infusion avoids tear duct and other eye damage. Full disclosure, I have no personal chemo experience.

[Jmhanshaw in reply to cmeek1]

Never heard that but wish I had!

[kcamH]

Like most side effects, they lessen with time but I finished chemo in Sept. I've had two docs try to open my tear ducts by poking with large needles but the ducts are hopelessly scarred shut.

[Jmhanshaw in reply to kcamH]

See my reply below about heating your eyelids. Seems to help me.

[Shepard]

I had a dry eye condition before I began Chemo. My Ophtalmologist wanted to install "noodles" to open the ducts. I declined and opted to use drops for lubrication. Three to four times a day seems to help me. Seems to me everyone wants to get a piece of the pie at considerable cost and I sometimes rebel simply because I am tired to being "messed with". Probably not the best attitude, but at 81 I do what I am convinced is best for me.

[Jmhanshaw in reply to Shepard]

My optometrist recommended I apply heat to my eyes several times a day using a eye heating pad I put into the microwave. Needless to say, be careful not to burn your eyelids. Then I use eye wipes to clean my eyelids (with eyes closed). The heat helps melt the oil in the glands. Then you can either express the eyelids (by squeezing them) or squint your eyelids as hard as possible which might help drain the glands. After a month of doing this my eyes seem better. Good luck. Jack H.

[j-o-h-n]

Another F.N. thing to worry about, next they'll come up with a new virus that will scare the shit out of everyone.

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Tuesday 03/10/2020 8:21 PM EDT

[Shepard]

I have not tried the heated pads. I think I am doing okay with drops. Also I use "baby shampoo" to clean the eyes. This makes them feel better. I read at least one book a week so don't think I am bad off. If this persists after I complete the chemo regimen I may look toward a more permanent solution. Thank you for response.