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Dry Eye

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a very common eye condition that affects millions of Americans every year. The good news is that if you have dry eye, there are lots of things you can do to keep your eyes healthy and stay comfortable.

At Community Eye Care Specialists, our dedicated team can help improve your symptoms and ensure your eyes are comfortable and healthy.

Dry eye happens when your eyes don’t make enough tears to stay lubricated or when your tears aren’t of good quality. This can make your eyes feel uncomfortable, and in some cases, it can also cause vision problems.

Your tears are more than just water. They’re a complex mixture of water, oils, mucus, and proteins that work together to keep your eyes moist, protected, and clear. When this delicate balance is disrupted, it can result in dry eye syndrome.

Understanding the underlying cause of your dry eye is crucial in order for your eye doctor to develop an effective treatment plan. This is why professional diagnosis is so important.

What Are the Symptoms of Dry Eye?

Those who have dry eye may experience a number of symptoms that occur at any time of the day. These include:

  • Gritty, sore eyes that feel tired
  • Eye redness
  • Light-sensitivity
  • The urge to rub the eyes
  • Closing the eyes helps alleviate symptoms
  • Blurry, fluctuating vision that seems to improve with blinking

What Causes Dry Eye?

There are many possible causes of dry eye, including:

  • Age: As you get older, your eyes naturally produce fewer tears.
  • Hormonal Changes: Particularly in women during pregnancy or menopause.
  • Medical Conditions: Certain autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to dry eye.
  • Medications: Some medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can reduce tear production.
  • Environmental Factors: Dry or windy climates, air conditioning, and prolonged screen time can all exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

Determining the root cause of your dry eye symptoms will help your eye doctor at Community Eye Care Specialists develop an effective treatment plan.

How Do Eye Doctors Diagnose Dry Eye?

If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, it is important to see your eye doctor for a thorough eye exam. In some severe cases, untreated dry eye can cause permanent vision loss.

Not only will treatment protect the health of your eyes, but it will also improve your quality of life significantly. Your eye doctor at Community Eye Care Specialist can check for dry eye as part of a comprehensive eye exam. The exam is simple and painless.

At Community Eye Care Specialists, our experienced team can:

What Treatments Are Available For Dry Eye?

At Community Eye Care Specialists, our dry eye doctors offer a range of treatments to help manage and alleviate dry eye symptoms. Their approach is tailored to each patient’s specific needs and may include:

Artificial Tears

Our eye doctors typically recommend Oasis Tears. These lubricating eye drops can provide relief and help maintain eye moisture throughout the day.

For severe cases, your eye doctor may suggest preservative-free eye drops or lubricating ointments for nighttime use.

Nutritional Supplements

Your eye doctor may recommend using Omega Shield dietary supplements, which can help improve tear quality and overall eye health. You can purchase these at any of our locations.

Lid Hygiene

Keeping your eyelids clean is crucial. At Community Eye Care Specialists, the eye doctors typically recommend using a lid cleanser, sometimes called a lid scrub. These are easy-to-use and effective products that can help improve your symptoms.

Punctal Plugs

These tiny devices can be inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tear drainage, helping to keep your eyes lubricated.

Prescription Medications

In some cases, your eye doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops to increase tear production.

Your eye doctor will work with you to identify and manage any medical conditions or medications that may be contributing to your dry eye symptoms.

Eye Masks

These can help retain moisture and provide relief, especially during sleep or in dry environments.

Are There Any At Home Remedies for Dry Eye?

Managing dry eye is an ongoing process, but with the right care and treatment, you can significantly improve your comfort and eye health. Remember these key points:

At Community Eye Care Specialists, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal eye health and comfort. Our team is always here to answer your questions and provide the care you need to manage your dry eye effectively.

Dry Eye Doctors

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Don't let dry eye impact your quality of life. Request an appointment at Community Eye Care Specialists at any of our locations in NY or PA today to and take the first step towards healthier, more comfortable eyes.
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