Pregnant Women and Dry Eye Syndrome

Pregnant Women and Dry Eye Syndrome

A woman's body goes through many changes during pregnancy. However, often women are unaware of the impact that pregnancy can have on the eyes.

Dry Eye Syndrome is a condition that can significantly impact a woman's quality of life. The body changes during pregnancy and some of those changes can alter normal tear function. Therefore pregnant women can sometimes suffer from Dry Eye where they may experience a reduction in the eyes' ability to produce or maintain sufficient natural tears to keep the eyes lubricated and feeling comfortable.

Dry Eye Syndrome is common. Studies have shown that up to 20% of adults aged 45 or more are estimated to experience this aggravating condition. However, Dry Eye Syndrome should not be taken lightly. Left untreated, Dry Eye Syndrome can result in fluctuations in vision and damage to the surface of the eye.

Symptoms associated with Dry Eye Syndrome include pain, dryness, burning, grittiness, redness, watery eyes, sensitivity to light and irritation, which at times can be extremely uncomfortable for sufferers.

In addition to pregnancy, some medications, such as the contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can cause Dry Eye Syndrome in women. Dry air and wind, laser eye surgery, ageing, contact lens wear and tasks that require concentration such as computer use, driving and reading are other risk factors associated with Dry Eye Syndrome.

During pregnancy, a woman's main concern is to take care of her body and her unborn child. Although there is no cure for Dry Eye Syndrome, there are ways in which women can manage this condition.

The Refresh® range of eye drops lubricate the eye, to moisturise and comfort Dry Eye sufferers. The active ingredient is a lubricating polymer called carmellose sodium (CMC), which has been shown to improve the health of the eye's surface and provide long-lasting relief of Dry Eye symptoms. In addition, the Refresh® range of Eye Drops are a convenient solution, not only because they offer a range of products to suit most Dry Eye sufferers, but because Refresh® Eye Drops are gentle on eyes and suitable for long-term use.

All women experience differences in pregnancy
Similarly, Refresh® recognises that women also have different needs when it comes to relieving dry eyes. As a result, the Refresh® range of eye drops contain products to relieve mild, moderate and severe Dry Eye symptoms. The range includes Refresh Plus (30 x 0.4ml single-dose preservative free vials for every day dry eyes, RRP: $15.70), Refresh Tears Plus (15mL mulit-use bottle for dry irritated eyes, RRP: $5.60), Refresh Liquigel (15mL multi-use bottle for persisten dry eyes, RRP: $5.60) and Refresh Contacts (15mL multi-use bottle for contact lens wearers, RRP: $11.15).

Gentle on eyes and suitable for long-term use
All multi-eye drops must be preserved to prevent bacterial contamination after the bottle is opened. But not all preservatives are the same. Unlike many other lubraciting eye drops, the Refresh® range of multi-dose eye drops is preserved with Purite, an oxidative preservative which breaks down into natural tear components (water, oxygen and salts). This helps to reduce the risk of preservative-induced irritation and discomfort that can occur with occur with other types of preservatives, making Refresh® Eye Drops able to be used as often as needed. Refresh Plus® Eye Drops are available in single-use, preservative-free vials which provide convenient on-the-go relief for dry eyes, making them a great addition to your purse, gym bag or office drawer.

Keep an eye out for the new look Refresh® range available at leading pharmacies and select optometrists.
For more information about the Refresh® range of eye drops, please call 1800 252 224 or visit www.allergan.com.au

Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional. Refresh Plus, Refresh Tear Plus and Refresh Contacts contain carmellose sodium 5mg/mL. Refresh Liquigel contains carmellose sodium 10mg/mL.