Dry Eyes
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2020 Family Vision
Optometry & Pediatric Optometry located in Novi, MI & Lake Orion, MI
If you consistently feel like something is in your eye, or if your eyes are frequently dry and irritated, you may have dry eye syndrome. Several effective eye care treatments are available to increase tear production and relieve the symptoms of dry eye at Michigan Eye and Contact Lens in Novi, Michigan. Learn more about how to get relief from itchy, irritated eyes by scheduling an appointment online or by calling the office. Michigan Eye and Contact Lens services patients in Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Commerce, Milford, South Lyon, Northville, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Plymouth, Birmingham, Livonia, Brighton, Bingham Farms, Bloomfield Township, White Lake, and Highland, MI.
Dry Eyes Q & A
What is dry eye?
Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears to lubricate them. It may also result when the tears you produce aren’t sufficient in providing necessary nutrients to your eyes.
Tears are essential for maintaining good eye health. They also moisturize the front of your eye to provide you with clear vision.
Chronic dry eye increases your risk for eye infections and causes several uncomfortable symptoms.
What are the symptoms of dry eye?
When you have dry eye syndrome, you may frequently feel like something is in your eye. Other common dry eye symptoms include:
- Itching
- Burning
- Irritation
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Excessive watering
What causes dry eye?
Many things in daily life can cause dry eye in an otherwise healthy person, including prolonged staring, screen time, and driving. You may also experience dry eye symptoms as you age and tear production decreases. Other causes of dry eye include:
- Hormonal changes
- Certain medications
- Environmental factors
- Underlying medical conditions
If you use a computer for extended periods, you may not blink your eyes frequently or adequately enough, resulting in dry eye. Dry eye is also a common side effect of eye surgeries, including LASIK®.
How is dry eye diagnosed?
A thorough evaluation of your eye health is conducted to determine the cause of dry eye.
During your exam, a variety of tests may be administered to diagnose dry eye and to help formulate a management plan. A common test involves using eye drops that temporarily numb your eyes, followed by a special paper strip that determines how much moisture is present in your eyes.
What treatments are available for dry eye?
A thorough evaluation of your eye health is performed to determine the cause of dry eye. Tests may be conducted to evaluate the amount of moisture your eyes produce.
Treatment of dry eye is sophisticated and tailored to each patient’s condition. Options range from pharmaceuticals to lid hygiene regimens, artificial tears, medicated eye drops or ointments, and protective contact lenses.
Part of dry eye prevention involves proper eye hygiene, including regularly cleaning your eyelids and lashes to remove debris, dead skin, and allergens.
Schedule a consultation online or by phone to learn more about dry eye treatments.
