Inflammation takes center stage in nearly every chronic disease, and dry eye syndrome (DES) is no exception. That’s why many people with a red, inflamed complexion often experience the added discomfort of dryness and grittiness in their eyes, courtesy of DES.
At Mississauga Vision Centre & Brampton Vision Centre, we are passionate about helping people find relief from red, inflamed skin and eyes. To schedule an appointment and learn more about our services, contact us today.
What is Inflammation?
Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection. It is characterized by redness, swelling, heat, pain, and loss of function, and can occur in any part of the body, including the eyes.
A red face can be caused by inflammation due to several factors, including acne, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and more.
How Does Inflammation Occur And Lead To Dry Eye?
When the eyes are not properly lubricated, the surface of the eye becomes dry and irritated. This can lead to an inflammatory response, which causes increased blood flow to the area, causing redness, swelling, and heat.
During inflammation, various immune cells and signaling molecules are mobilized to the affected area, triggering an inflammatory response. This response can compromise the function of the lacrimal glands, which are responsible for producing tears that keep our eyes moist and lubricated. Inflammation can disrupt the normal production and composition of tears, affecting their quantity and quality.
Additionally, inflammation can impair the function of meibomian glands, which are responsible for secreting the oily component of tears that helps prevent excessive evaporation. When these glands become inflamed, they may produce less oil, leading to increased tear evaporation and subsequent dryness.
Inflammation can also damage the surface of the eye, including the cornea and conjunctiva. This damage can impair the integrity of the tear film, which is crucial for maintaining the smoothness and protection of the ocular surface. As a result, tears evaporate more rapidly, leaving the eyes vulnerable to dryness, irritation, and discomfort.
Patients who already have an inflammatory condition that causes facial redness may be more at risk of developing dry eye.
Fortunately, we have treatments that can help.
How Does ICON IPL Treat Inflammation?
ICON IPL is a treatment that uses light to reduce inflammation in the general eye area. It is a safe and effective treatment that can help to improve the symptoms of inflammation by targeting the blood vessels that are associated with inflammation.
The light from the ICON IPL device causes the blood vessels to shrink, reducing inflammation, and minimizing the symptoms of dry eye.
Other Treatment Options To Reduce Inflammation
ICON IPL is just one of many options to bring relief and reduce inflammation. Other options include:
- Artificial tears
- Warm compresses
- Punctal plugs
- LipiFlow
- TempSure RF
LipiFlow is a treatment that uses heat and pressure to remove oil from the eyelids, which can improve the quality of tears. TempSure RF uses radiofrequency energy to warm the eyelids and improve meibomian gland functioning.
Let red, irritated skin and eyes be a thing of the past. Schedule an appointment to learn more about ICON IPL and other treatment options that offer long-lasting relief.