I have terrible dry eyes too, have had punctual plugs and use various drops daily. They do worsen without the drops so I try to keep them up. However, I recently had my eyes tested and there has been a big decline in my sight (which I knew cos even my reading glasses were not good). I think a lot of my problems come from computer screens, iPad, etc.

I don't know if the dryness causes permanent damage, but you MUST put lubrication in your eyes .

As for the computer, I bought on Amazon glasses for when on the PC. Helps.

There's also several brands of lubricating eye ointments that you can put in at night. They are thicker than eye drops so you want to use it just before going to bed. If you're using a fan or air conditioner, it's a must to use drops more often! Also, don't be afraid to speak up when you're in the hospital- tell them that you need them and if they won't provide them, have a friend or family bring some to you. Also, if you're having any surgery or procedure using anesthesia, make sure you bring your drops (gel drops preferred as they're thicker) as your eyes may be exposed during the surgery.

The Sjogren's Foundation has a very informative page on self-care when you're in the hospital: http://www.sjogrens.org/files/brochures/surgery_hospitals_medications.pdf