Dry Eye Treatment

Dry eye is a common eye condition that occurs when your tears are not able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. Tears can be inadequate for many reasons. Sometimes, dry eye is due to decreased tear production from common eye conditions. In other instances, it is due to increased tear evaporation or an imbalance in the makeup of your tears.

Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye is often the result of a variety of factors. Environmental conditions, such as wind and dry climates, can increase tear evaporation, leading to dry eye symptoms. Failure to blink regularly, such as when you're staring at a computer screen, cellphone, or a book for long periods, can also contribute to drying of the eyes. Contact lens wear, makeup, and false lashes have also been linked to chronic inflammation drying out the eyes.

Another significant cause of dry eye is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). The Meibomian glands, located in the eyelids, produce the oily part of your tears. When these glands are not functioning correctly, your tears can evaporate too quickly, leading to dry eye.

Additionally, certain medical conditions and medications can cause dry eye. Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune conditions, and thyroid problems can lead to dry eye. Medications for high blood pressure, allergies, birth control, and depression, among others, can also cause dry eye.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye is often characterized by persistent dryness and irritation. However, the symptoms can go beyond just discomfort. Some common symptoms of dry eye include a stinging or burning sensation in your eyes, red eyes, fluctuating vision, difficulty with night driving, and sensitivity to light. You may also experience blurred vision or feel like something is stuck in your eye.

In moderate to severe cases, dry eye can lead to complications. These include an increased risk of eye infections, as tears are a natural defense against these. Dry eye can also damage the surface of your eyes, potentially impairing your vision.

Dry Eye Treatment

There are different approaches to dry eye treatment, and the best one for you will depend on the underlying cause of your condition. For some individuals, simply modifying their environment or behavior can significantly relieve dry eye symptoms. This could involve using a humidifier, taking breaks during long tasks that require visual concentration, switching to daily contact lenses, properly using eye makeup and lashes, or avoiding windy, dry conditions.

If your dry eye is due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction or another medical condition, your treatment may involve therapies to improve tear production or quality. Medical treatments range from over-the-counter eye drops to prescription drugs that reduce inflammation or increase tear production. Procedures such as Forma-I and Lumecca-I, which improve the function of tear glands and treat the root cause of inflammation, have been shown to be one of the most effective treatments.

The Role of Visionaire Optometry Spa in Dry Eye Treatment

As a specialized eye care center, Visionaire provides personalized care for patients with dry eye. Our optometry practice employs state-of-the-art diagnostics to accurately identify the underlying causes of dry eye.

At Visionaire Optometry Spa, the focus is not just on treating the symptoms of dry eye, but also on addressing the root causes. This approach helps provide long-term relief from dry eye symptoms. Whether your dry eye is due to environmental factors, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, or other causes, Visionaire Optometry Spa can provide a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Contact our office in Riverside, California, or call (951) 498-EYES (3937) to schedule an appointment today.

One of the few optometrist near me in Inland Empire, Riverside area, providing Dry Eye treatments.

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