I have been having problems with dry eyes for the past 2 years. Tried all sorts if eyedrops and even gel at night but still not a 100% fix. It causes my eyes to sting and itch which is super ...
Given the symptoms you've described, it's crucial to consider several potential causes and seek immediate medical attention. Here's a detailed breakdown of the possible conditions and their implications: 1. Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (Shingles involving the eye): - Symptoms: Fever, headache, and bliRead more
Given the symptoms you’ve described, it’s crucial to consider several potential causes and seek immediate medical attention. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the possible conditions and their implications:
1. Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (Shingles involving the eye):
– Symptoms: Fever, headache, and blisters on the temple could indicate shingles, especially if the blisters follow a dermatomal pattern. When shingles affect the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve, it can lead to eye pain and potentially serious ocular complications.
– Action: Immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary. Antiviral medications are most effective when started early.
2. Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma:
– Symptoms: Severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and visual disturbances. Although you mentioned having glaucoma, if there’s a sudden increase in intraocular pressure, it could exacerbate symptoms.
– Action: This is an ophthalmic emergency. Seek urgent ophthalmological evaluation to prevent vision loss.
3. Infection or Inflammation:
– Symptoms: Fever and headache could also indicate an underlying infection or inflammatory process, such as sinusitis or meningitis, especially if accompanied by neck stiffness or altered consciousness.
– Action: A thorough clinical examination and possibly imaging or lumbar puncture may be required to rule out these conditions.
4. Photokeratitis:
– Symptoms: While typically associated with UV exposure, symptoms include eye pain and discomfort around bright lights. However, it usually resolves within a few days, which may not align with your prolonged symptoms.
– Action: Protective measures and symptomatic treatment are advised, but given your symptoms, other causes should be prioritized.
5. Trigeminal Neuralgia:
– Symptoms: Sharp, stabbing facial pain could be indicative of trigeminal neuralgia, especially if triggered by touch or temperature changes.
– Action: Neurological evaluation and management with medications like anticonvulsants may be necessary.
Given the complexity and potential seriousness of your symptoms, I strongly recommend seeking immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional can conduct a comprehensive assessment, including a detailed history, physical examination, and necessary investigations, to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.
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It sounds like you’ve been really persistent in trying to get relief, and that’s completely understandable — most treatments simply replace tears rather than tackle the root problem. When dry eye lingers for years, it’s important to dig deeper and understand why it’s happening. A thorough assessmentRead more
It sounds like you’ve been really persistent in trying to get relief, and that’s completely understandable — most treatments simply replace tears rather than tackle the root problem. When dry eye lingers for years, it’s important to dig deeper and understand why it’s happening.
A thorough assessment can show whether it’s mainly a problem with tear quantity, tear quality, inflammation, or even eyelid gland function. Once we know that, we can choose more targeted treatments — such as prescription anti-inflammatory drops (like steroids and non-steoridal options like cyclosporine or lifitegrast), punctal plugs to help retain natural tears, or advanced heat-based eyelid therapies for meibomian gland dysfunction, including radiofrequency, intense pulsed light, thermal pulsation, thermo-mechanical action, etc. In some cases, autologous serum tears made from your own blood can help restore a healthier tear film.
By addressing the underlying cause rather than just masking symptoms, we can aim for lasting relief — and hopefully reduce your reliance on constant eyedrops or other topical medications.
Regards,
Dr. Preethi Jeyabal
MBBS MRCS(Edin), FRCOphth(London)
Director of Regenerative Aesthetics, Hair Restoration & Dry Eye Services
Eagle Aesthetics & Surgery
IG: @drpreethisg_eyeskinhair
The information provided on this forum is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for any medical concerns, diagnosis or treatment.
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