Dry Eye Care and Prevention

 

Dry eye syndrome is a frustrating but common condition that affects millions of Americans. It results from your eyes not receiving adequate lubrication, typically when they aren't producing enough tears or producing poor-quality ones. Over time, this causes inflammation and damage to the eye's surface, leading to discomfort and even vision damage. Our team at Exquisite Eye Care in Houston provides quality care for dry eye. 

Symptoms of Dry Eye

People with dry eye often experience a burning, stinging, or scratching sensation in their eyes. They may also notice light sensitivity, discomfort when wearing contact lenses, and eye redness.

What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Risk factors for dry eye include aging, medications, medical conditions, environmental conditions, refractive eye surgeries, long-term use of contact lenses, and more. Even something as simple as not blinking regularly, especially when staring at a computer screen, can contribute to dry eye.

How is it Diagnosed?

The first step in diagnosing this condition is a comprehensive eye exam. Your local optometrist will evaluate the quality and quantity of your tear production, checking for abnormalities. They will also examine your eyes, assess your eyelids and cornea, and discuss your medical history. Once diagnosed with dry eye syndrome, your optometrist can recommend treatment options.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

Treatment options range from lifestyle changes to eye drops. Mild cases can be treated with over-the-counter artificial tears, which supplement natural tear production. Additional treatment may be needed if artificial tears alone do not provide sufficient relief. Blocking the tear ducts to conserve tears and treating eyelid inflammation with prescription eye drops, eyelid cleaners, warm compresses, and lid massage can be highly effective treatment options.

Complications of Dry Eye

Dry eye can damage the surface of your eyes, leading to infections and corneal abrasions. It can also cause blurred vision, making daily activities such as working on a computer, looking at your phone, reading, and driving difficult. In advanced cases, it could even result in scarring and vision loss.

Ways to Prevent It

There are several ways to prevent dry eye. Increasing the humidity in the air, wearing sunglasses outdoors to reduce wind and sun exposure to your eyes, and avoiding dry environments whenever possible are helpful. Consider taking supplements that contain essential fatty acids, as they can decrease your symptoms.

Family Eye Care at Exquisite Eye Care

At Exquisite Eye Care, we offer comprehensive treatment options for dry eye symptoms. We will perform a thorough eye exam to identify your specific issue and provide you with medication and lifestyle advice to prevent dry eye from negatively impacting your life. Overcome dry eye syndrome today by calling Exquisite Eye Care in Houston at (281) 580-3937.