Dry eye occurs when the eyes are not sufficiently moisturized. This can lead to itching, redness, and pain from dry spots on the surface of the eye. Dryness and irritation of the eye takes place when the tear ducts are not producing enough tears, or the tears themselves have a chemical imbalance.

• • Through an exam, we will try to determine the cause of dry eyes. Most often it is a consequence of aging. Patients typically begin experiencing dry eye symptoms through the aging process. Other causes of dry eye may include:
  • Medications such as antihistamines, oral contraceptives and antidepressants.
  • Dry climate and wind exposure.
  • Chemical or thermal eye burns.
  • Abnormal Eyelid Issues blinking.
  • Autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren’s syndrome.

Treatment methods for dry eyes include:

• • Use of artificial tears or moisturizing ointment
  • Increasing humidity at home or work.
  • More frequent blinking.
  • Use of artificial tears or moisturizing ointment.
  • Administering medicated cyclosporine immunomodulator drops or medicated T-cell integrin antagonist drops.
  • Small tear duct (punctual) plugs inserted in the corners of the eyes to limit tear drainage.
  • The drainage tubes in the eyes may be surgically closed.
  • Eyelid surgery is sometimes also a solution (albeit rare) if an eyelid condition is causing the dry eye.

Talk to your Visionary Ophthalmology doctor during your next eye exam to discuss the best dry eye treatment method for you. Although dry eyes may not entirely go away,  here at Visionary Ophthalmology we are dedicated to improving the way dry eyes feel and function and will work with you to protect your eye health and vision.