Dry Eyes Support Group

Dry eyes is an eye disease caused by decreased tear production or increased tear film evaporation. Symptoms include burning and a sandy-gritty eye irritation that gets worse as the day goes on. The symptoms are often caused by a loss of water from the tears that results in tears that are too "salty" or hypertonic.

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littlemart 02/22/2015

I didn't know about the possible side effect of developing lymphoma from Restasis. I've been on this stuff for 4 years after having thyroid ablation ( radiation) and now I'm questioning the safety of taking any more. It has not really done much for me. Every few weeks I get the pain, draining etc in one eye. All I can do is use a warm washcloth on that eye several times a day. Doesn't cure it, but helps for awhile.

Recently I've developed some small swollen lymph nodes in my groin and at the back of my neck. Gonna have to make yet another doctor appointment to see what's up with this.

shihonage 03/06/2015

Restasis is a dangerous medication by its nature. There are many other options to exhaust for dry eye before having to resort to something this bad.

Back in 2006 when I tried it, it gave me eye spasms. But I wouldn't use it anyway.

For example, a combination of these is bound to help most people:

1) http://www.amazon.com/GNC-Ultra-Potency-GLA-Softgels/dp/B00C8TVD5M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425642790&sr=8-1

2) http://www.sciencebasedhealth.com/HydroEye-Powerful-Dry-Eye-Relief-P43.aspx

3) http://www.amazon.com/Now-Foods-Ultra-Soft-gels-180-Count/dp/B000SE5SY6/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

#1 is the most potent natural anti-inflammatory agent which will reduce inflammation in the eyes. #2 is clinically-proven tear-increasing solution. #3 is there for synergy with #1, because there's evidence that it is required.

4) Fog-resistant swimming goggles to wear indoors when using computer, watching TV and such. EXTREMELY beneficial as they retain moisture.

5) Last but not least, this humidifier:

http://www.amazon.com/Honeywell-Germ-Free-Humidifier-HCM-350/dp/B002QAYJPO/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1425643029&sr=1-1

These are specific things I use. There are more, actually, but these appear to be key.

shihonage 03/06/2015

P.S. As the "Ultra GLA 500" tends to run out (they may have stopped manufacturing it), the only equivalent is Lindora's "Stay-Weight" supplement. Same ingredient.

littlemart 03/08/2015

shihonage once again thanks so much. I never thought about side effects from eye drops. But I happened to read something about Restasis and I thought... oh no. Not another poison for me! I'll look into your suggestions.

littlemart 03/08/2015

shihonage.... can you tell me how large the softgels are? I have trouble swallowing sometimes and need smaller pills. Also... interesting about the humidifier. My rheumatologist just told me on Friday to use one for the dry eyes and mouth.

shihonage 03/09/2015

They're all about the size of a typical fish oil capsule. I wouldn't call them "small".

littlemart 03/19/2015

shihonage can you tell me what is dangerous about Restasis? Did you research it when you got dry eyes? Sounds like you really look into these things and understand what's what. I read that Restasis can cause Lymphoma. When I started having swollen lymph nodes in my groin and the back of my neck I stopped taking the drops. I use OTC eye drops now. Wonder about some of them.

shihonage 03/19/2015

Like all immunosuppressants, it's dangerous. Back when I tried it, it was only extensively tested on rats.

singles 04/18/2015

I had no idea. I have been using Restasis for years and its the only thing that helps so I can see. Without it my eyes have no tears and are so dry that I can't see even with glasses.

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