Dry Eye Treatment

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eyes occur when the eye cannot produce enough natural tears to lubricate itself. The condition is common and affects a significant percentage of the population, especially those older than 40 years of age. This condition can develop for some reasons, causing a variety of symptoms that can interfere with quality of life. These symptoms most often include:

• Pain
• Itching
• Redness of the eyes
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• A feeling of a foreign element in the eye
• A gritty or scratchy sensation as though sand is in your eye

Symptoms of dry eye can worsen when exposed to elements such as high temperatures, dry or windy climates, or as a result of overuse such as that which occurs when staring at a computer screen or a television.  

What Causes Dry Eye?

Natural tear production is made up of water, fatty oils, and mucus. When there is a lack of these components in natural tear production, your eyes can dry out. Common causes of decreased tear production can include aging, certain medications, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, thyroid disorders, and a vitamin A deficiency.

How Is Dry Eye Treated?

If your symptoms of dry eye are mild, over-the-counter artificial tear drops can manage the discomfort. If your symptoms are persistent or more serious, a doctor should evaluate you to find out if there is an underlying health issue causing your dry eyes. Other treatment options may involve prescription medications, antibiotics, specialized eye drops, and inserts. Some surgical procedures work to close your tear ducts to reduce the loss in natural tears. You may also be fitted with specialized contact lenses designed to help people with dry eyes. Speak with the doctor about what treatment will fulfill your specific needs. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kim, contact the Optoid Print 3D Eyewear & Primary Eyecare offices today.