I am not alone!

[Nettie]

Glad I found this site, I have been messed around for two years but am now finally under the clutches of an eye consultant, this has taken much perseverence and visits back and forth optician and doctors surgery, also eye casualty to finally get a consultant to see me. I am a 44 year old female, I live in South Wales (UK) and teach ICT (I do blink and am very aware of making sure I take plenty of drops when using tech). I have severe dry eye but the consultant thinks I have Sjogrens Syndrome due to my dry mouth and nose symptoms. I also have joint pain. A Schirmer's test showed less than 4mm. Plugs and much medication including Doxycycline have had little effect. I have tried numerous medications but the best for me are Celluvisc 1.0 and 0.5 during the day (around 10 to 30 times) and Visco Tears at night. Lacrilube did not agree with my eyes and made them worse the next day. I am now on Ciclosporin ointment which is not registered for humans....the doctors cannot (or will not) obtain it so I have to get it on special prescription from the hospital pharmacy via the eye clinic. The Ciclosporin (also Cyclosporine) ointment burns my eyes, especially when I go onto the computer, despite instilling the Celluvisc drops. The clinic have photgraphed my corneas which are pretty damaged, probably due to the dry eye. I am still awaiting a rheumatology referral appointment (after 3 months) but my consultant has now expedited this to speed up the appointment. I also have an appointment to see a corneal specialist next month. The dry eye makes me pretty miserable, especially in my job and the heat of 30 computers in the room. An ultrasonic humidifier near my desk has helped the dryness slightly. I take Omega 3 supplements and Flaxseed capsules although my eyes show little improvement. I am glad that I am not alone with this and that I have people who understand, even if you live far away. Thank you for your support.