Dry Eye

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears, or when the tears are not of the right quality to keep your eyes adequately lubricated. The importance of addressing dry eye extends beyond mere discomfort. Untreated, it can lead to more serious complications, including eye infections and damage to the surface of your eyes. This can significantly impair your vision over time.

What Causes Dry Eye?

One of the leading causes of dry eye is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands, located in your eyelids, are responsible for secreting oils that prevent the evaporation of your eye's tear film. When these glands don't function correctly, it can lead to rapid tear evaporation, resulting in dry eye symptoms.

Health-related factors also contribute significantly to the development of dry eye. Hormonal changes, particularly during menopause, can significantly impact tear production and quality. Additionally, certain medications, including antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production, leading to dry eye symptoms.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye syndrome can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Dryness: A persistent feeling of dryness, grittiness, or a foreign body sensation in the eye.

• Redness: The eyes may appear red or bloodshot due to irritation.

• Burning or Stinging: A sensation of burning or stinging in the eyes.

• Watery Eyes: Dry eye can stimulate excessive tearing as a response to the irritation.

• Blurred Vision: Vision may be intermittently blurred, particularly during activities that require prolonged visual concentration such as reading or computer use.

• Sensitivity to Light: Increased sensitivity to light, also known as photophobia, may occur in some individuals.

• Eye Fatigue: Tired, achy, or strained eyes, particularly after extended periods of visual tasks.

• Difficulty Wearing Contact Lenses: Contact lens wearers may experience increased discomfort or find it difficult to wear their lenses for extended periods.
  
  

Lifestyle Changes in Managing Dry Eye

Managing dry eye often involves more than just medical treatments; lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in alleviating symptoms. Simple adjustments, such as taking regular breaks during prolonged screen use, using a humidifier in dry environments, and wearing sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from wind and UV light, can make a meaningful difference.

Diet also impacts eye health significantly. Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can improve tear quality and reduce dry eye symptoms. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day is also essential for maintaining healthy tear production.

Dry Eye Treatment

Treatment for dry eye ranges from simple, over-the-counter solutions to more advanced medical interventions. Artificial tears are a common first step, providing temporary relief for mild symptoms. For more persistent cases, prescription medications that increase tear production or reduce inflammation may be recommended.

For those with Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, treatments such as warm compresses to unclog the glands or more advanced procedures such as LipiFlow or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy.

At StylEyes, we understand that dry eye is a multifaceted condition that affects everyone differently. We offer personalized treatment plans, tailored to address your specific symptoms, causes, and lifestyle. Our comprehensive approach begins with a detailed assessment of your eye health, followed by a discussion of your symptoms and how they impact your daily life.

Based on this assessment, we'll recommend a customized treatment plan that may include a combination of lifestyle changes, over-the-counter remedies, prescription medications, and advanced treatments. Our goal is to provide you with effective relief that improves your quality of life and allows you to enjoy daily activities without the discomfort of dry eye.

​​​​​​​If you're struggling with dry eye, don't wait for your symptoms to worsen. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can find a solution that brings you lasting relief.