OCULAR SURFACE DISEASE

As a fellowship-trained Ocular Surface and Cornea Surgeon, Dr. Jayadatt Patel offers expert care in treating keratoconus, corneal infections, dystrophies, and ocular surface disorders

What is Ocular Surface Disease (OSD)?

Ocular Surface Disease (OSD) is a collective term for conditions affecting the front surface of the eye, primarily the cornea and conjunctiva. These disorders can cause chronic discomfort, visual disturbances, and, in severe cases, corneal damage.

Typical Causes

Several factors can contribute to cataract development, including:

Decreased Tear Production (Dry Eye)

Reduced tear secretion leads to insufficient moisture, causing irritation and blurred vision.

Dysfunction of Meibomian Glands

These oil-producing glands prevent tear evaporation. Dysfunction results in evaporative dry eye.

Eyelid Inflammation (Blepharitis)

Inflammation along the eyelid margin can disrupt tear stability and lead to chronic irritation.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes can affect tear production and ocular health.

Environmental Factors

Wind, dust, pollution, smoke, and excessive screen time contribute to tear film instability.

Advance Causes

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)

A severe allergic reaction affects the skin and mucous membranes and causes extensive ocular damage.

Chemical Injuries

Exposure to acids, alkalis, or toxic substances can cause corneal scarring and severe dry eye.

Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid (OCP)

A rare autoimmune disease causing progressive conjunctival scarring and vision loss.

Ocular surface squamous neoplasia

A spectrum of pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions affecting the ocular surface.

When to See Us

 We provide the most benifical  solution for yours eyes

Dryness and Itchiness
Abnormal Eye Discharge
Burning or Stinging Sensation
Irritation and Discomfort
Pain in the Eyes
Increased Sensitivity to Light
Blurry Vision
Redness and Inflammation

Available Treatments

Artificial Tears

Lubricating eye drops help maintain tear film stability.

Punctal Occlusion

Blocking tear drainage ducts helps retain moisture.

Eyelid Hygiene Practices

Warm compresses and lid scrubs help manage blepharitis.

LipiFlow Therapy

Uses heat and massage to improve Meibomian gland function.

Advanced Treatment Options

Simple Limbal Epithelial Transplantation

Used in limbal stem cell deficiency, replacing damaged corneal cells.

Mucous Membrane
Grafting

Harvests tissue from the oral or nasal mucosa to repair conjunctival defects.

Amniotic Membrane Transplant

Biologic tissue graft that promotes healing and reduces inflammation.

Prevention Tips

  • Take frequent breaks from screen time
  • Avoid smoke and other irritants
  • Use artificial tears regularly
  • Practice good eyelid hygiene
  • Schedule regular eye exams

FAQs

OSD is a chronic condition, but with proper treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively. Early diagnosis and consistent care can prevent complications.

Occasional dryness can be caused by environmental factors, but persistent symptoms such as irritation, burning, redness, and blurry vision may indicate OSD. An eye examination, including tear film analysis, can confirm the diagnosis.

Severe OSD, if left untreated, can lead to corneal damage, scarring, or infections, which may cause vision impairment. However, timely treatment can prevent serious complications.

Yes. Prolonged screen exposure reduces blink rate, leading to increased tear evaporation and worsening dry eye symptoms. Taking breaks and using lubricating drops can help.

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) can help improve tear quality. Staying hydrated and avoiding excessive caffeine or alcohol also supports eye health.

Yes, OSD is more common in older adults, especially postmenopausal women due to hormonal changes. However, younger individuals with high screen exposure are also increasingly affected.

Yes, long-term use of contact lenses can disrupt the tear film and cause dryness. Daily disposable lenses or scleral lenses (for severe cases) may be better options for OSD patients.

Artificial tears provide temporary relief but do not treat the underlying cause. Patients with moderate to severe OSD may need advanced treatments like LipiFlow®, punctal occlusion, or prescription eye drops.

Evaporative Dry Eye: Caused by Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), leading to rapid tear evaporation.
Aqueous-Deficient Dry Eye: This is due to insufficient tear production from the lacrimal glands.

Maintain a humidified environment, follow proper eyelid hygiene, take regular screen breaks, use preservative-free artificial tears, and get regular eye check-ups.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Early detection and management can prevent complications.

Schedule an Appointment