ZEST
Treatment for Dry Eye Disease
Avon Vision Associates 860-677-6444
New Hartford Eye Associates 860-379-7183
ZEST – Zocular Eyelid System Treatment for Dry Eye Disease
If you are dealing with symptoms of dry eye disease due to blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, or Demodex mites, we offer an in-office treatment called ZEST, which stands for Zocular Eyelid System Treatment, to relieve your irritated eyes. Learn more about these underlying conditions and how ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) can help!
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a condition in which the eyelids become inflamed. The inflammation can cause redness, itching, and burning of the eyelids, as well as the formation of dandruff-like scales on the eyelashes.
The condition can be caused by a bacterial infection, a problem with the oil glands in the eyelids, or a combination of both. It can also be associated with certain skin conditions such as acne and rosacea, allergic reactions to cosmetics or medications, and Demodex mites.
The most common symptoms of blepharitis include:
- Red, swollen eyelids
- Itchy or burning eyelids
- Flaky or crusty eyelashes
- Excessive tearing
- Eyelids that are stuck together after sleep
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- A feeling of grit or a foreign body in the eye
- Eyelash loss
It can also cause symptoms related to dry eyes such as dryness, burning, or even watery eyes. Depending on the cause, symptoms can be mild or severe and may come and go.
Meibomian gland dysfunction
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common condition where the meibomian glands in the eyelids become blocked or malfunctioning. These glands produce an oil that helps to keep the tears from evaporating too quickly, and when they’re not working properly, it can lead to dry eyes and other symptoms.
Symptoms of MGD include:
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Red, swollen eyelids
- A feeling of grit or a foreign body in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Itchy or burning eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Excessive tearing
- Sticky or gummy eyelids
- Yellowish or white bumps on the eyelids (called meibomian cysts)
MGD is one of the top causes of dry eye disease because it interferes with the proper function of the meibomian glands. When these glands don’t produce enough oil or produce oil that’s thick and difficult to express, the tear film can become unstable and evaporate too quickly. This leads to dry, irritated eyes and can cause other symptoms like redness, itching, and burning. It can also increase the risk of eye infections.
Demodex
Demodex mites are tiny, eight-legged, parasitic insects that are commonly found on the skin and in hair follicles of mammals, including humans. They are present in small numbers on most people, but in some cases, their numbers can increase, leading to a condition called Demodex blepharitis.
Demodex blepharitis is a form of blepharitis that is caused by an overgrowth of demodex mites on the eyelashes and eyelids. The mites feed on the oils produced by the meibomian glands and can lead to inflammation and blockage of the glands, resulting in MGD, one of the common causes of dry eye disease.
Symptoms of Demodex blepharitis include:
- Itchy or burning eyes
- Red, swollen eyelids
- A feeling of grit or a foreign body in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Sticky or gummy eyelids
- Eyelash loss
Demodex blepharitis is often mistaken for other forms of blepharitis, and a proper diagnosis is necessary to determine the exact cause of the symptoms. Treatment for Demodex blepharitis typically includes lid hygiene.
What is ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment)?
ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) is a deep cleaning procedure for the eyes that removes impurities and debris from the eyelids and lashes.
- During the treatment, we will apply a gel to the eyelid margin and lashes with a cotton swab, using circular motions to create a lather.
- This deep cleansing step helps to lift and clear away oils, debris, and residue from the eyelid margin.
- The gel used in ZEST is formulated with a refined extract of okra, which is a powerful yet gentle ingredient that can help to soothe inflammation.
- After the gel has been applied, it is rinsed off with saline solution.
What are the benefits of ZEST?
One treatment of ZEST can lead to an improvement in symptoms of dry eye, blepharitis, and Demodex. Okra is a vegetable which is known to be gentle, effective, and powerful in cleaning around the eye area and improving lid hygiene which is essential in treating these conditions. Dirt, bacteria, oils, and other irritants on the eyelids can cause itching, burning, and irritated eyes, and ZEST can effectively remove the irritants.
If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms due to blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, or Demodex, ZEST may be an effective solution for you. The treatment is simple, painless, and can provide noticeable improvement after just one treatment. For more information about ZEST and to find out if it is the right treatment for you, schedule an evaluation for dry eye disease at our office.