• These brands are Preservative Free. They can be used with contact lenses and as many times a day as you would like. But I 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. Or you can use the Magic Touch Device to help you instill the eye drops. I like the Magic Touch because you can put eye drops in without tilting your head back so it's a great option for people with neck pain, whiplash injuries or BPPV where tilting their head back is a barrier to putting in eye drops. 

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

• 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.

• In the morning and/or evening, get in the habit of cleaning your eyelids with either an eyelid wipe, eye-safe cleansing gel and/or spray.

• You don't need all of these options, pick what works best for your lifestyle. The wipes are easy to travel with and don't require water. They also are great at taking off your makeup. If you prefer a larger bottle cleanser or spray you will likely also need an eye-safe makeup remover.

• Do NOT use facial cleansers to clean your eyes, they are often irritants and not made to be eye-safe, even if they are hypoallergenic and recommended for sensitive skin.

• 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

• If you have red eyelid margins and dry eye discomfort, I recommend using the Heat mask 10 min 1-2x a day.

• If you have an active stye, heating both eyes can be really inconvenient to
  your day.  Try the one eye bruder mask so you can heat that stye 4-6+times a day and still be able to function with your day.

• Why the cold mask?? Some of my patients have dry eye sensations due to neurosensory abnormalities, and they find that instead of heat, a cold pack on the eyes 1-2x a day brings more relief.  Just don’t do it for more than 10 min at a time!

• Don’t have a microwave or on the go? Try the Eyedration masks!

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

• 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.

For a video on how to apply eye ointment please click here to Check out DoctorEyeHealth’s Video

• 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.

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