Dry eyes following glaucoma surgery

[Redshoes15]

Following 2 trabeculectomies (1 failed), 2 bleb re- needlings & 2 cataract removals, I now have severe dry eyes and have been referred for tear duct cauterisation. Has anyone else had this and did it help or were the after effects intolerable? I am very undecided whether to go ahead. Any advice welcome. Thanjs

[Longwalks3]

Have you already tried punctual plugs? I am wondering why you are being offered a permanent surgical procedure before you have tried temporary plugs so that you can assess whether they help your dry eyes.

[Redshoes15 in reply to Longwalks3]

Yes I have already tried that and they just fell out. I am not happy about a permanent surgical procedure for this, but doctors seem to think the various lubricating drops are not working enough. Thank you for your response.

[Longwalks3 in reply to Redshoes15]

Sorry to hear this.i feel for you as I also have very dry eyes after multiple glaucoma surgeries but mine is caused by meibomian gland disfunction. I produce enough tears but not enough of the lipid layer to stop my eyes drying out as the tears evaporate. I have, after several years, found a drop regime that works for me. Hot humid climates work too!

[Redshoes15 in reply to Longwalks3]

Thanks, it is helpful to hear from someone else with the same problem. Whilst not wishing to go against medical advice, I have decided to postpone this procedure until after my next appointment, on 17th March to see if I can manage the problem without more invasive surgery. Many thanks again.

[Biosphere]

Could you try again with punctal plugs? Maybe a different consultant to insert them.

They have been a life saver for me…admittedly put in by Mr Salmon in Oxford who has trained most of the younger consultants.

Try again before invasive surgery. I have had SO much go wrong with incompetence

[Redshoes15 in reply to Biosphere]

Thank you Biosphere, good advice. I will try again as you suggest.

[Rainyday2024]

Hello Redshoes15, Sorry to hear about your problems - I would imagine after your numerous procedures to your eyes, you wouldn’t feel like having any more unless absolutely necessary! Have you tried all the various different brands of dry eye drops? Maybe you just haven’t found the one that works for you? I use Thealoz Duo drops in the daytime and the Thealoz Gel before bed. I have heard that using special heat pads can help with very dry eyes. Fortunately I have not had to use them, but I’m sure there are many people on here who will be able to offer advice about these heated pads. I hope you get the problem sorted soon and do not have to resort to even more surgery. Kind regards

[Redshoes15 in reply to Rainyday2024]

Thank you for your help, much appreciated. I use Theoloz Duo during the day and Hycosan night ointment, also have heated pad and I intend to persevere for the moment as I feel that my eyes have had more than enough! I am glad your own eyes are being well managed.

[Rainyday2024 in reply to Redshoes15]

Thank you. I hope all will be well when I see my consultant in March. I don’t want another eye op if I can avoid it! Take care, kind regards

[whitedog]

Hi

I sympathise as I have a uveitis disease, glaucoma and now dry eye due to all the drops and surgical procedures, I guess.

They tell me I have poor tear film and MGD. The corneal clinic prescribed a drop called Ikervis twice a day, on top of my Hylo Forte and Xailin Night. It's stingy though and I'm not convinced it's helped at all.

Drops, I think, only do so much and sometimes they just make my eyes feel gloopy but the night ointment works well.

Using the heat mask makes a difference. I can tell when my glands are getting blocked as my eyes feel really swollen. I'm supposed to use it at least once a day. I don't, as I find it a chore, but I do think it's worth it so am trying to get into the habit! I also try to do it before bed as it makes my eyes blurry afterwards.

Otherwise, even just packing a hot flannel over your eyes as much as possible may help. The corneal clinic also urged me to drink more water and make sure I was getting enough Omega 3. I don't eat fish so take fish oil capsules from Bare Biology.

All the best. x

[Redshoes15 in reply to whitedog]

Thanks white dog, good to hear from a fellow sufferer. All the drops and surgery have caused my MGD and like you, I have tried most things but seem to be stuck with the problem. It’s painful at times isn’t it. I probably don’t get enough Omega 3 so will add fish oil capsules to my daily routine! Good luck and let’s just hope that one day there will be a cure for this awful disease.