Dry eyes occur when there aren't enough tears to keep your eyes moist. This common condition is characterized by frustrating symptoms that can ultimately impact one’s vision. Our family and pediatric eye care professionals at Family Vision Clinic in Farmington can help if you are experiencing dry eyes.
How Does an Eye Doctor Diagnose Dry Eye?
Dry eye can be diagnosed as part of your yearly eye exam. If our eye doctor at Family Vision Clinic suspects you have dry eye, there are tests available to confirm the diagnosis.
Dry Eye Symptoms
Symptoms of dry eyes vary but typically include one or more of the following:
- A constant sensation of something foreign in your eyes
- A stinging, gritty, or scratchy feeling in your eyes
- Redness around your eyes
- Eye fatigue and blurry vision
- The presence of mucus in your eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Difficulty with night driving
- Discomfort when wearing contact lenses
Who Is at Risk for Dry Eye?
Certain risk factors can make individuals more susceptible to developing dry eye, including:
- Age: The risk of developing dry eye increases significantly after the age of 50 as tear production diminishes.
- Medications: Some medications have side effects that can contribute to the development of dry eye, including decongestants, antihistamines, birth control pills, high blood pressure medications, acne medication, hormone replacement therapy, and antidepressants.
- Chronic Medical Conditions: Certain existing or chronic medical conditions can lead to dry eye, such as thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, sarcoidosis, and vitamin A deficiency.
- Contact Lens Use: Long-term contact lens wearers may be more prone to dry eye.
- Eye Allergies: Allergies affecting the eyes can contribute to dryness.
- Eyelid Issues: Problems with the eyelids can disrupt the production and distribution of tears.
How Is Dry Eye Treated?
If you are diagnosed with dry eye, our family eye care optometrist can create a tailored treatment plan to alleviate dry eye symptoms. Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and the specific symptoms but may include:
- Artificial Tears: These can help mimic the production of natural tears.
- Eye Inserts: Slow-release inserts can provide measured relief by keeping the eyes moist.
- Tear Stimulating Drugs: Medications can encourage an increase in tear production and eye moisture.
- Punctal Plugs: These tiny devices can be inserted to prevent tears from draining, helping to maintain eye moisture.
Visit Our Optometrist for Dry Eye Relief
If you are seeking relief from dry eye symptoms, Family Vision Clinic in Farmington is ready to assist you. An eye exam by our family eye care optometrist can determine the presence and severity of dry eye. Armed with this information, our family or pediatric eye care specialists can recommend appropriate treatment. Are you looking for an eye doctor near me? Contact a member of our staff at 651-463-2020 or schedule your next appointment online today.