Effective Treatment Protocol for Dry Eye Disease in Rural Population (Nizamabad District, Telangana State)

Background: Dry eyes are common occurrence in rural population affecting both male and female above 40 years, especially those involved in agriculture related occupation. Pathophysiology of dry eyes is either due to increased evaporation or decreased tear production dry weather, dust, exposure to toxic substances, nutritional disorders, improper personal hygiene are contributing factors. Symptoms are foreign body sensation, blurring of vision, burning sensation, intolerance to wind beside easy fatigability of eyes. Aim: Aim was to design effective treatment protocol for treating poor patients from rural areas with dry eye disease (DED). Materials and methods: Total 92 patients 49 males and 43 females were followed up to 1 year with initially two visits at 15 days interval, thereafter at 3 months interval. Patients were instructed to report back in case of worsening of symptoms. Results: 78 were comfortable and symptoms are improved. 6 patients there was not much improvement in signs and symptoms. In three patients symptoms worsened with medication and these 9 patients were referred to higher centers for further treatment. 5 patients were lost to follow up. Conclusion: Level I and II DED in rural population is best treated with hydroxyl methyl cellulose eye drops 4 times were more depending on symptoms along with anti-inflammatory agents initially for two weeks, offers good relief from symptoms and improved compliance. Patients were symptoms free for about one year with medication.