Dry eye is a common condition that can cause a significant amount of discomfort and interfere with your daily life. Understanding the condition, its symptoms, and the various treatment options available can help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

Dry Eye and Its Symptoms

Dry eye can stem from a variety of causes, with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) being a primary factor for many individuals. The meibomian glands are located in your eyelids and are responsible for secreting oils that prevent the evaporation of your tears. When these glands are not functioning properly, your tear film becomes unstable, leading to quicker evaporation and dry eye symptoms.

In addition to MGD, there are other potential causes of dry eye. Aging is one factor, as tear production tends to decrease with age. Environmental conditions, such as exposure to smoke, wind, or dry climates, can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, and blood pressure medications, can reduce tear production. Additionally, prolonged screen time can lead to reduced blinking and increased tear evaporation.

Symptoms include a stinging or burning sensation in your eyes, periods of excessive tearing followed by dryness, and discomfort when looking at screens for too long. You might notice a stringy mucus in or around your eyes, increased eye irritation, and a sensation of having something in your eyes. In more severe cases, you could experience blurred vision or eye fatigue.

Dry Eye Treatment Options

When it comes to managing dry eye, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Treatment options range from simple at-home remedies to advanced medical therapies.

Artificial tears or over-the-counter eye drops can provide temporary relief from dryness. However, if your condition is more severe or persistent, you may require more targeted treatments.

In some cases, Dr. Egan may recommend prescription medications or procedures to address the underlying causes of your dry eye. These treatments aim to increase tear production, improve tear quality, or conserve your tears to provide longer-lasting relief.

OptiLight Treatment

OptiLight is a non-invasive, cutting-edge treatment that has been gaining attention for its effectiveness in managing dry eye, particularly for those with meibomian gland dysfunction. This innovative technology uses intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy to address the root causes of dry eye.

The OptiLight treatment works by applying gentle pulses of light around the eye area, which helps to warm and unblock the meibomian glands, allowing them to function normally. This can lead to a significant improvement in the stability of the tear film and a reduction in dry eye symptoms.

Scleral Lenses

Unlike regular contact lenses, scleral lenses are larger and designed to vault over the entire corneal surface. This creates a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, which helps keep your eyes moist throughout the day.

These lenses are especially beneficial for individuals with severe dry eye symptoms or those who have not found relief with other treatments. Scleral lenses protect the cornea from exposure and irritation, providing comfort and clearer vision.

Creating a Personalized Treatment Plan at NewView Family Eyecare

At NewView Family Eyecare, we understand that each individual's experience with dry eye is unique. That's why we are committed to creating a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific symptoms and lifestyle.

During your comprehensive dry eye evaluation, we will conduct a thorough assessment of your eyes. Based on the findings, we will recommend a tailored treatment strategy that may include a combination of at-home remedies, prescription eye drops, OptiLight therapy, scleral lenses, or other interventions.

Our goal is to provide you with the most effective and convenient treatment to alleviate your dry eye symptoms and improve your overall eye health. We are dedicated to helping you achieve lasting comfort and clear vision.

​​​​​​​If you're struggling with dry eye, don't wait any longer to seek help. Contact NewView Family Eyecare today to schedule your comprehensive dry eye evaluation and take the first step towards a personalized treatment plan that works for you.