Review (5/5): Expensive, but very effective relief from Fuch's Dystrophe
Fuch's Dystrophe is a chronic swelling of the corneas that causes one's eyes to be almost constantly irritated and sore. It is not a dangerous medical condition, bit it is awfully uncomfortable and annoying. I tried Muro 123 5% at my optometrist's recommendation, and results have been good.
Regular eye drops do provide some relief from the "scratchy" feel by lubricating the surface of the eye, but little more. Muro 128 5% actually reduces the swelling of the cornea for an hour or two after each application, which gives significant symptomatic relief and makes driving, using electronic displays, and other potentially eye straining activities easier and less uncomfortable.
A few things that you need to know: This product reduces the scratchy, itchy symptoms, but (regrettably) does not cure. One should expect to have to reapply several times a day for effective relief.
It burns. Others have complained about this, and they are right. It does this because of the relatively high concentration (5%) of sodium chloride (NaCl, or "salt") in the solution. This is uncomfortable, but lasts only a minute or so and, with regular use, becomes less uncomfortable. This is, as my kids say, 'a feature, not a flaw'. The high NaCl concentration is what does the work of reducing the swelling that causes the discomfort. It draws water out of the swollen corneas by osmosis, and that is why this product is more effective than typical eye drops that moisturize and lubricate, but do not reduce the swelling that causes the dryness and scratchiness. And, with regular use, this side effect becomes less and less a problem.
For me, the relief that I get more than makes up for the cost and a little stinging for a minute or two after application (which I hardly notice any more).