Untreated dry eye leads to serious complications
Our spaniel is now 11 years old and has been on a drug for dry eye for two years. It is called Optimmune, but it is expensive! We are writing to ask if there are any alternatives that can be considered to keep our dog’s eyes moist and comfortable.
What causes this condition and what is the worst thing that can happen if we don’t treat it?
When he first developed the condition, he had goopy eyes that were red too. The vet diagnosed the condition and he has been pretty much problem free in the eyes since. My vet says that she likes this product and, if it works then stick with it. We thought we’d ask about options.
I happen to like the same product for the condition known as dry eye, which is actually keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS. These cases involve inadequate tear production by the tear or lacrimal gland, or by the gland of the third eyelid, leading to conjunctival inflammation and drying of the cornea.
Breed predilection includes West Highland white terriers, cocker spaniels, miniature schnauzers and pugs. Diagnosis is made by presentation and using something called a Schirmer Tear Test to quantitatively assess tear production. Initially antibiotic or steroid ointments might be used. There are numerous possible causes for KCS. Most commonly, this is an immune mediated condition and that is why immunosuppressive drugs like the one your dog takes work. Other possibilities include genetic defects, trauma, untreated allergies, infections, hypothyroidism, distemper, which is rarely seen nowadays, and drug reactions.
There are a few options that can be tried and you will need to research the costs. At this point, one option is getting generic cyclosporine compounded for eye use. That should be less costly than a name brand. Tacrolimus is another product that typically costs about the same. Both drugs are immunosuppressive in action.
Another option that is less costly is frequent use of artificial tears in liquid or ointment form. Its frequency of use would be higher and more laborious.
Untreated dry eye could lead to severe eye dryness, corneal ulcers, severe pain and even blindness. I would follow your veterinarian’s suggestion or discuss options with her but treat it one way or another.