The first of June ushers in Vision Research Month which recognizes the accomplishments of vision research and recognizing the ongoing challenges and significant progress in discovering cures for many ocular diseases and disorders.

One common eye ailment that has been receiving recent attention from the medical community is dry eye.  In a recent Wall Street Journal article, it is noted that “25% of eye-doctor visits are for dry eye…and many complaints are linked to the popularity of vision correction surgery.” The article cites the rising demographic of sufferers are women over 40. This rise in complaints has led a handful of physicians to specialize in this field. “Doctors say the treatment doesn’t work for everyone and more options are needed.”

Reversing Dry Eye Syndrome: Practical Ways to Improve Your Comfort, Vision, and Appearance, recently released by Yale University Press, combines detailed medical information with expert treatment advice for the estimated twenty million Americans who suffer from dry eye syndrome. Dr. Steven L. Maskin, an ophthalmologist who has been caring for dry eye patients for more than fifteen years, explains exactly what the syndrome is, why it occurs, and how it can best be managed and treated. He dispels the misunderstandings that surround dry eye syndrome and presents an easy-to-understand guide that may be read cover-to-cover or dipped into for specific topics of interest.

Dr. Maskin begins with an overview of dry eye syndrome, then explains the myriad ways it can develop (allergies, aging, contact-lens use, LASIK surgery, diabetes, and various other diseases). He discusses how it can be successfully diagnosed and treated, offers guidelines for choosing a doctor and appropriate medications, and describes useful home remedies. In a concise final chapter, the doctor provides welcome answers to frequently asked questions. For patients who want to understand their disease and to participate actively in its management, this book is an essential reference.

For the full WSJ article, click here. (Subscription needed)

For more information on June as Vision Awareness Month please visit http://www.preventblindness.org/.