Dry Eye Treatment

Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome

Several factors can cause dry eye syndrome, ranging from environmental conditions to specific medical conditions. Age is a significant factor, as tear production decreases with age. This condition is more common in women, especially those experiencing hormonal changes due to pregnancy or menopause.

Long-term use of contact lenses can also lead to dry eye syndrome. This is due to the lens absorbing the eye's natural moisture, leading to the tear film's disruption. Other causes include certain medications, which can reduce tear production, and medical conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, which can affect the body's ability to produce tears. A lack of essential nutrients in our diet can also impact tear production and quality.

Symptoms Indicative of Dry Eye

There are several symptoms indicative of dry eye, and recognizing them is the first step towards finding appropriate treatment. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include a stinging or burning sensation in the eyes, redness, and increased sensitivity to light.

You may also experience a sensation of having something in your eyes, commonly described as grittiness or scratchiness. In some cases, excessive tear production can paradoxically indicate dry eye. This is because the eye may produce reflex tears in response to the dryness, which are watery and do not have the same lubricating qualities as normal tears.

Finally, if left untreated, dry eye syndrome can lead to complications such as increased risk of eye infections, damage to the surface of the eyes, and in severe cases, vision impairment.

Artificial Tears

One of the most common dry eye treatments is the use of artificial tears. These eye drops are designed to mimic the composition of real tears and help maintain moisture on the eye's surface. They are available in various formulations, some of which are specifically designed for different types of dry eye.
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Artificial tears provide immediate, though temporary, relief from dry eye symptoms. They work by supplementing the natural tear film, providing extra lubrication to the eye's surface. This reduces friction, alleviating symptoms such as burning and stinging

Ray-Ban 1-Day Contact Lenses

Contact lens wearers often face the challenge of managing dry eye symptoms. Advancements in contact lens technology have led to the development of lenses designed to combat dry eye.

Ray-Ban 1-Day lenses are designed with a high water content, ensuring the eyes remain hydrated throughout the day. They also offer UV protection, safeguarding the eyes from harmful UV rays, which can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

Lenscrafters 1-Day Premium Contact Lenses

Lenscrafters 1-Day Premium lenses are crafted from a unique silicone hydrogel material that allows more oxygen to reach the eye. This promotes healthier eyes and reduces the risk of dryness. These lenses also possess a high water content and a smooth surface design to reduce friction, providing additional comfort for dry eye sufferers.

TearCare Treatment

TearCare is an innovative dry eye treatment that targets the root cause of evaporative dry eye, meibomian gland dysfunction. It involves the application of controlled, localized heat to the eyelids, softening the hardened meibum within the glands. A professional then manually expresses the glands, clearing any blockages.

This treatment offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it provides long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms by addressing the underlying cause. It also allows for personalized treatment, as the clinician can adjust the heat and pressure applied based on the patient's needs.

TearCare is a simple, in-office procedure that typically takes under 15 minutes. It is non-invasive and requires no downtime, making it a convenient option for many patients.

Punctal Plugs

Punctal plugs are tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to block tear drainage, increasing the tear film's volume on the eye's surface. This provides long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms and can be an effective treatment for moderate to severe dry eye.

Punctal plugs are typically made of silicone and are available in two types: temporary and permanent. Temporary plugs dissolve over time, while permanent plugs remain in the tear ducts until they are removed by a clinician.

The insertion of punctal plugs is a quick and painless in-office procedure. It can provide immediate relief, making it an attractive option for those seeking effective dry eye treatment.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses offer a comprehensive treatment for dry eye. These are large-diameter contact lenses that vault over the cornea, resting on the sclera. The space between the lens and the cornea is filled with a saline solution, which continuously bathes the cornea in a liquid layer, providing constant hydration.

Scleral lenses provide numerous benefits. They offer immediate and lasting relief from dry eye symptoms, improve visual acuity, and protect the cornea from the environment and the eyelids' mechanical effects.

Scleral lenses are comfortable to wear, and are custom-fitted to each individual's eye shape, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal comfort. Most patients adapt to these lenses quickly and find them to be an effective solution for managing dry eye.

Why Choose City Eye Optometry

At City Eye Optometry, we understand the impact that dry eye syndrome can have on your daily life. We offer a range of dry eye treatments tailored to each individual's needs, ensuring the most effective and comfortable treatment.
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Our services include a comprehensive dry eye evaluation, where we assess the severity of your condition and identify the underlying cause. Based on this assessment, we develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include lifestyle modifications, artificial tears, contact lenses, TearCare, punctal plugs, scleral lenses, or a combination of these treatments.

Our team of experienced optometrists are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care. We continually update our knowledge and skills to stay abreast of the latest advancements in dry eye treatment, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment possible.

At City Eye Optometry, we are committed to helping you manage your dry eye symptoms and improve your eye health. If you're struggling with dry eye, don't hesitate to reach out to us.