Dry Eye Therapy
- Does it feel like you have sand in your eyes that you just can’t get rid of?
- Do you find yourself constantly rubbing your eyes in an effort to ease the discomfort?
- Or maybe your eyes feel like their burning all the time? (Think Allergy Season)
If so, you may be suffering from something called Dry Eye Disease.
What Is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry Eye Disease can happen for a variety of reasons. It is characterized by an imbalance of the tear film. Since, the tear film has 3 main layers: the lipid layer, the aqueous layer, and the mucous layer; Dry Eye Disease occurs when there is an issue with any of those components. This can result in salty tears and inflammation, and if left untreated, can lead to long-term problems.
There are certain medications and medical conditions that make it more likely for someone to develop Dry Eye Disease. Seasonal allergies, autoimmune conditions (such as arthritis, scleroderma, lupus, and Sjogren’s syndrome), and a deficiency of vitamin A can increase the probability of developing Dry Eye.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms?
Here are a few common symptoms that one can experience:
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Crusting on the eye lashes
- Red eyes
- Light Sensitivity
- Feeling like there is sand in the eyes
- Contact lenses feel uncomfortable more often than not
- Glare when night time driving
- Vision & Focus changes throughout the day
What Are The Treatment Options?
There are several treatment options available for Dry Eye Disease. These include:
- Eye drops to reduce inflammation of the front surface of the eye
- Lubricating eye drops to provide relief and soothe the eyes
- Hot compresses to help with the lipid layer of the tears rejuvinate
- IPL Therapy for dry eyes, learn more here
As symptoms and presentations vary person to person, it is often best to speak with an experienced optometrist, who can help to diagnose your Dry Eye Disease and come up with an appropriate treatment plan.
Dry Eye Assessments Now Available
We understand that Dry Eye Disease can have a major impact on your quality of life, and we’re here to help! Dr. Mah and Dr. Baker both have a keen interest in Dry Eye Disease, and combined have extensive experience treating this condition.
