Don’t Let Dry Eyes Get in Your Way

Dry Eye Disease

Are your eyes constantly red and itchy? Do you feel a burning sensation or grittiness around your eyes? Do you experience tearing or watery eyes? Does your vision fluctuate? These are the symptoms of chronic dry eye

Dry Eye Disease affects 1 in 5 adults, impacting quality of life and can occur to anyone.

You are at a higher risk for Chronic Dry Eye if you…

Experience red, itchy, or irritated eyes
Use contact lenses
Use glaucoma drops
Have undergone eye surgery

Stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
Eyes feel dry, irritated, or gritty
Watery eyes
Redness
Sensitivity to light
Blurred vision
Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Aging and/or Hormonal Changes
As we age, hormonal changes can lead to a decrease in tear production. This reduction in tears affects both men and women, leading to potential eye dryness and discomfort.
Environmental Factors
Wind, smoke, excessive screen time, dry climates, including when we turn on our furnaces will cause dry eyes
Medical Conditions
Rheumatoid arthritis
Diabetes
Thyroid disease
Lupus
Sjogren’s Syndrome
Contact Lens Wear
Refractive Surgery
Such as LASIK or PRK
Medications
Diuretics (water pills) for high blood pressure
Beta-blockers for heart problems or high blood pressure
Allergy and cold medicines (antihistamines)
Sleeping medications
Anxiety and antidepressant medicines
Heartburn medicines
Problems with the eyelids or tear glands
Entropion (when eyelids turn in)
Ectropion (eyelids turn outward)
Blepharitis (when eyelids are inflamed) *This is the most common cause
Adequate lubrication is essential for maintaining eye health and recognizing these changes can help individuals seek appropriate care and treatment to address symptoms of dry eyes. Managing hydration, using artificial tears, and consulting with eye care professionals can provide relief and promote overall eye comfort.
Traditional treatments include
Lifestyle and environmental changes
Over the counter artificial tears or ointments
Warm compresses
Lid Hygiene
Omega 3 supplements
Other Nutritional Changes
Prescription eye drops
Oral medication
In Office Treatments treatments include
Intense Pulse Light (IPL)
Microblepharoexfoliation
Zocular Eyelid System Treatment (ZEST)