Dr. Theis's Recommended Daytime Lubrication Products

• These brands are Preservative Free. They can be used with contact lenses and as many times a day as you would like, but we recommend starting with 3-4x a day.

• If you have trouble putting in eye drops or are afraid of eye drops, the Optase Dry Eye Spray is a great option.

For tips on how to put in eye drops click here to visit @DoctorEyeHealth on YouTube

Dr. Theis's Recommended Eyelid Cleansing Products

• Eyelid hygiene, including cleansing, is crucial for managing dry eye because it helps maintain the health of the meibomian glands, which play a key role in producing the oily layer ofthe tear film. These glands can malfunction due to chronic dry eye, abnormal blinking, inflammation, hormones, and down regulation from the nervous system.

• Cleansing the eyelids removes debris, bacteria, and excess oils that can contribute to inflammation and irritation.

• By regularly practicing eyelid hygiene, patients can reduce symptoms of dry eye, enhance tear quality, and support overall eye comfort.

• Don't forget it’s important to take eye makeup off nightly.

Dr. Theis's Recommended Warm Compresses

• Eyelid hygiene, including the use of heat, is crucial for managing dry eye because it helps maintain the health of the meibomian glands, which play a key role in producing the oily layer of the tear film. These glands can malfunction due to chronic dry eye, abnormal blinking, inflammation, hormones, and down regulation from the nervous system.

• Warm compresses help to soften and express the oils from these glands, preventing blockages and improving tear stability.

• *NOTE: may be contraindicated for patients with supraorbital, supratrochlear, or occipital neuralgia

For tips on warm compresses click here to visit @DoctorEyeHealth on YouTube

Dr. Theis's Recommended Nighttime Hydration & Lubrication Products

• Hydration is essential for both brain injury recovery and managing dry eye. Proper hydration supports brain function, aiding in cognitive processes and reducing the risk of headaches, fatigue, and other symptoms that can hinder recovery after a brain injury.

• For dry eye, staying hydrated helps maintain the moisture balance of the eyes, as dehydration can lead to a reduction in tear production, exacerbating dry eye symptoms. By ensuring adequate fluid intake, patients can promote healing, improve cognitive function, and maintain healthier, more comfortable eyes.

• While 8-10 glasses of water a day is key, electrolytes are also important in patients with brain injury and dysautonomia.

• If you are waking up with dry eyes, you may need additional night time lubrication - you can use thicker artificial gel tears or night time ointments before bed.

Dr. Theis's Recommended Supplements

• In an ideal world, we would all eat a perfect balanced diet with 5-8 servings of vegetables a day, lean sources, of protein, and good quality fats. 

• However, sometimes perfection isn't possible.  Whether you are too nauseous from your injury to eat a quality diet or you have food aversions, poor nutrition can impact your eye and brain health and impact your recovery. 

• The following are products Dr. Theis prefers due to quality of ingredients and bioavailability. 

• Please note, not all patients need all supplements, and not all patients are candidates/able to take all supplements. Please check with your doctor before taking any supplements.