Reversing Dry Eye Syndrome: Practical Ways to Improve Your Comfort, Vision, and Appearance

From: www.BasilAndSpice.com Author & Book Views On A Healthy Life! Book Review: Reversing Dry Eye Syndrome: Practical Ways to Improve Your Comfort, Vision, and Appearance (Yale University Press, 2007) by Steven L. Maskin, M.D. Do you have dry eyes? Apparently almost 5 million of us do in the United States. Moderate cases are estimated at 20-30 million people. Common in the over age 50 group--7.8% of women and 4.7% of men are impacted by it. If left untreated, keratoconjunctivitis sicca or dry eye syndrome, can lead to more eye problems, including blindness. Either the tear (lacrimal) glands under the eyelids aren't producing enough tears or the tears themselves are evaporating too quickly because of their composition. Dr. Steven Maskin, author of Reversing Dry Eye Syndrome, says that dry eye syndrome is painful. Symptoms sometimes begin mildly and progress: Achy or sore eyes Redness, inflammation Scratchy, grainy, gravelly feelings Feeling of something in the eye Burning, Stinging Itching frquently Contact lens discomfort Nighttime dryness Difficulty opening eyes in the morning Blurred/ Fluctuating sight Heavy eyes Watery eyes Excessive mucus discharge Sensitivity to light What are the causes? Researchers aren't quite sure, but some factors play significant roles: LASIK Surgery Live in a dry or windy area Use the computer often Use the eyes often for work or recreation Drive long distances often Smoke or live with someone who does Use medications for allergies, birth control, or depression Take hormone replacement therapy Have had cosmetic eye surgery Have worn contact lenses for many years Suffer from specific illnesses: Sjogren's syndrome, diabetes, thyroid disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, ocular rosacea. I've had a little dry eye syndrome periodically due to contact lenses, reading, and computer use, but hadn't really thought that much about it, until my friend had LASIK eye surgery. He is an emergency room physician who loves to scuba dive on his time off. The need to see underwater through a mask, without contact lense worry led to LASIK surgery and a severe case of dry eyes. Using lubricating drops often, the standard treatment in the United States and Europe, his condition slowly improved. Further detection and treatment for severe cases involves drugs, surgery, in-office procedures, and moisture goggles. What can be done at home? Recent studies indicate that increased consumption of omega-3 fatty acids will improve the situation, possibly by 68% for women. Opt for salmon, tuna, sardines and other cold water fatty fish. Drink more water and reduce your caffeine intake. Caffeine, a diuretic, encourages the body to eliminate water, whereas water hydrates the body. Avoid rubbing the eyes, instead blot them with clean tissue. Last, check in with the allergist, to identify an unknown eye-drying problem. 5 Sta

I applaud the author for writing an intelligent, succinct, readable, upbeat overview of this irksome health issue. Patients who are newly diagnosed or who have not extensively researched the cause of their dry eye problems should definitely purchase this book. That being said, for someone like myself, who has already consulted ophthalmologists, am aware of my diagnosis, and have read numerous web articles on the topic, virtually all of the information was already familiar to me. However, I still unearthed one important nugget of information (that punctal occlusion using a cauterization process is reversible, and may be preferable to punctal plugs) which may be important for my future treatment. That alone was worth the price of the book, since my ophthalmologist had never mentioned this option. The book also contains a handy summary of the confusing variety of OTC eye drops and some good reminders about simple lifestyle changes that can be of great benefit. While any person with dry eye should initially consult an ophthalmologist to obtain a proper diagnosis, I just love books like this because doctors these days have so little time to sit you down and explain all of the strategies and treatment options that can be of benefit. Having this book several years ago would have been very helpful to me; it is a perfect example of why a small investment can sometimes be more worthwhile than a whole string of doctors' appointments.

Finding "Reversing Dry Eye Syndrome" was a Godsend for my eye dilemma. After over a year of treatment with several ophthalmologists, and after trying (time and again to no avail) their recommendations for eye drops, punctual plugs, Restasis and the like, this book was like an oasis in the desert. I even got to the point where I thought I must be imagining my pain and discomfort. After reading this book and realizing there were others like me - as well as the potential for significant improvement of my symptoms - I called Dr. Maskin's office and made the appointment for a consultation. I have just completed two surgical procedures since November and FINALLY, I feel like I have "my old self" back again!! Dr. Maskin is my hero. Thank you for making this a most special Christmas for me!

This book provides invaluble information on the topic of dry eyes not found elsewhere for the layperson. It explains in easy to read and understandable text both the physical and emotional impact that this condition can cause. I developed dry eyes three years ago as a result of an eye surgery. I have had to have several eye surgeries to correct the bad results and have seen many Drs. trying to find help for my dry eyes. When I started reading Dr. Maskin's book, I realized after just a few pages that I had finally found someone that understood this condition and the pain, frustation and impact it can have on one's life. Dr. Maskin explains thoroughly the many causes, what to look for, treatments and ways to manage and reverse dry eyes. Luckily I live in the same state as Dr Maskin and made and appt. as I read the book. He diagnosed a condition that other Dr. I have seen had never even mentioned. My condition required a breakthrough surgery that is only preformed by a few eye surgeons, a procedure Dr. Maskin specializes in. I have had excellent results am gradually getting back to a normal lifestyle. This book was a "God Send" for me. This book should be recommened by physicians as a resource for thier patients with dry eye symptoms .... Accolades to Dr. Maskin for his interest and dedication to this condition and writing this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I only wish some of the opthomologists I have visited over the past year had read Dr. Maskin's book! But now that I've discovered it, I feel I understand more than they do. Dr. Maskin clearly and in layman's terms explains all the causes of dry eye and how to actually treat and reverse it. Using his advice, I am managing my condition and in a lot less discomfort now. If you are visiting a series of doctors who don't seem to have a diagnosis for you, or act like it's just old age - save the money on visits and buy the book instead!