Isotretinoin may be associated with dryness, intolerance to contact lenses, or fluctuating vision. At the CARE Clinic, the optometrist checks whether tears, eyelids, or eyelid glands (Meibomian glands) contribute to the symptoms.
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Accutane, Roaccutane, and other forms of isotretinoin can be associated with dry eye, a sandy sensation, burning, fluctuating vision, or reduced tolerance to contact lenses.
These symptoms may stem from increased evaporation of tears, a blepharitis, a Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), dry environments, screens, lenses, or another ocular surface condition.
The optometrist looks for factors that worsen symptoms and identifies signs warranting more urgent attention.
THE CARE EXPERIENCE
The optometrist notes the dosage, duration of treatment, contact lenses, screens, dry air, and the drops used.
The optometrist checks whether, while on isotretinoin, tears remain on the eye and whether the eyelids or the Meibomian glands contribute to the symptoms.
Based on the observed signs, the optometrist at CARE Clinic may discuss an eye routine, an adjustment of lenses, or a discussion with the prescribing dermatologist.
Symptômes
Dryness, burning, fluctuating vision, light sensitivity, or less comfortable lenses may occur during treatment. The intensity, context, and progression help the optometrist know what to examine.
01
Eyes can feel dry, especially with screen use, in the wind, due to heating, or at the end of the day.
02
An irritated surface can burn, feel hot, or sting when tears don't protect as well.
03
Contact lenses can become uncomfortable if tears evaporate too quickly or if the surface is irritated.
Vision can become blurry and then clear up after a few blinks or eye drops.
A foreign body sensation can accompany a less stable surface.
An irritated eye may redden or water reflexively even if it feels dry.
Light can become more difficult to tolerate if the surface of the eye is irritated.
Reduced night vision or a new visual symptom should be reported promptly.
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Under isotretinoin, dry eyes are not simply due to a lack of tears. The optometrist also examines the eyelids, Meibomian glands, contact lenses, and visual signs to monitor.
Dr. Francesca Olinga, optometrist
Overview
Four profiles observed during evaluation. These markers outline possible signs without making a diagnosis.
What the optometrist checks
Tears, lenses, eyelids, and visual signs
Mild discomfort, painful lenses, an irritated eyelid margin, or vision loss do not prompt the same response.
01
Tears
If the oily layer of the tears is less stable, the eye may dry out more quickly between blinks.
Signs
•
Burning sensation at day's end
•
Fluctuating vision
•
Short-term relief with drops
02
Lenses
Isotretinoin may make contact lenses more difficult for some people to wear.
Signs
•
Limited wear
•
Irritation with contact lenses
•
Need for breaks
03
Eyelids
The eyelid glands can contribute to evaporative dryness if their secretion changes.
Signs
•
Irritated eyelid margins
•
Thicker secretions
•
Less stable tears
04
Vision
A decrease in vision, strong light sensitivity, or decreased night vision requires quicker attention.
Signs
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Decreased vision
•
Significant photophobia
•
Changed night vision
What the optometrist checks
01
Isotretinoin can alter the oily production of the eyelid glands (Meibomian glands) in some people.
02
When the oily layer doesn't protect as well, tears stay on the eye for a shorter time.
03
These signs help the optometrist decide whether to adjust drops, lenses, eyelid treatment, or request a prompt consultation.
Origine
The Meibomian glands Meibomian glands
are located in the eyelids. They release an oil that helps tears stay on the eye longer.
Risk factors
Click a factor to learn more
Perspective
Symptoms may occur during treatment with isotretinoin. They can decrease after a modification supervised by the dermatologist or after the treatment ends, but the progression can vary. Significant pain, vision loss, strong light sensitivity, or intolerance to contact lenses warrant prompt evaluation.
While on isotretinoin, this oily layer may be less effective for some individuals. The eye may then burn, sting, tear up reflexively, or become more sensitive to contact lenses and screens.
Recovery depends on dosage, treatment duration, eyelid condition, lens usage, the eye surface, and symptoms that existed prior.
A decrease in vision, significant pain, high sensitivity to light, painful redness, discharge, or reduced night vision justify a quick evaluation.
Diminishing vision or vision that doesn't clear up warrants prompt evaluation.
Urgent
A change in vision in the dark or while driving warrants a prompt evaluation.
Urgent
Worsening pain requires prompt evaluation.
Urgent
Strong light sensitivity can indicate significant surface irritation or another cause.
Urgent
Significant redness, especially in one eye, warrants prompt evaluation.
Urgent
Treatments depend on what the optometrist observes: unstable tears, irritated eyelids, less functional eyelid glands, poorly tolerated contact lenses, or any signs that require a referral.
Each treatment addresses a specific issue. Protecting a fragile surface, prolonging tear retention, soothing eyelid inflammation, adjusting contact lenses, or coordinating with the dermatologist: the option will depend on what the examination reveals.
Schedule an assessment
An optometrist and founder of the CARE Clinic, Dr. Francesca Olinga understands dry eye because she has experienced it. Experienced in the management of complex cases (neuropathic pain, demodex, chalazions), she uses innovation and attentive listening to guide you toward improved eye comfort.
Optometrist with over 30 years of experience and speaker for eye care professionals. Dr. Nguyen has experience in improving visual quality affected by dry eye. She supports her patients in reconciling their aesthetic goals (makeup, cosmetics) and optimal eye comfort.
An optometrist and member of theOOQ, Dr. Daniel Nguyen splits his practice between eye exams in an optometry clinic and advanced management of dry eye conditions at the CARE Clinic. This dual practice provides him with a comprehensive view of his patients' visual health, from routine screenings to cutting-edge therapeutic protocols. dry eye Biography of Karine Charbonneau
