Dry Eye Syndrome

Author: Debra Bennett, ABOC, NCLE-AC

Debra Bennett has no relevant financial relationships to disclose. The content and format of this course is presented without commercial bias and does not claim superiority of any commercial product or service.

Course Description

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eye cannot produce a sufficient quantity of tears or when the tears do not have a normal consistency. Dry eye syndrome is uncomfortable and can restrict or contraindicate many activities, can lead to repeated infections and possible damage to the underlying cornea with some vision loss. The good news is that it rarely leads to permanent loss of vision. This course will explore what your patients experience with dry eye syndrome, possible causes and treatments. As the population ages and as more digital devices demand our attention you will find a growing population in need of your assistance.

Course Objectives

Upon completing this course, ECP’s will be able to:

• Distinguish symptoms related to dry eye syndrome
• Classify and evaluate tests
• Recommend changes to visual habits to help alleviate dry eye
• Identify moisture sparing contact lenses
• Recognize patients who would benefit from referral to physicians and prescribers specializing in dry eye control
• Identify and compare the variety of medical resources