Dry eye after PRK. Is it permanent? (Photo)

Question

I'm 9 weeks post PRk. At my 1 week check up I was told I was doing well.4 weeks after op I woke up with a corneal erosion.i was told to lubricate more, & I did.im going through half a bottle of blink intensive tears plus a day and while I've had no more erosions my eyes feel gritty, tired and dry all the time.i also have horrible red veins in my eyes which I never had before. They're yellow& dull.drinking water,taking flaxseed,omega 3, compresses...everything. I'm self conscious. Is it forever?

Bradley W. Gustave, MD · Answer

Dry eye is a known risk factor after PRK and LASIK. Although this is often a transient effect, and can resolve on its own after several months, dry eyes following laser vision correction can be a permanent problem. That being said, your case sounds like a particularly severe case of dry eye, and I would visit with both my eye doctor and primary care doctor to ensure no other underlying issue is at fault (such as Sjogren's syndrome, severe blepharitis linked to rosacea, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca). These types of disorders often require more intensive care than the regimen you describe. Ultimately, getting an exam by your physician is the next step in trying to resolve and control this issue.

Dry eye after PRK. Is it permanent? (Photo)

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