Answers To Your Dry Eye Questions!

Posted by: Invision Optometry in Category Dry Eye Management

Today, let’s delve into the world of dry eye and address some common questions that many of us may have about this often bothersome condition. Whether you’ve experienced it firsthand or know someone who has, you’re in the right place to learn more about this common yet manageable condition.

What Is Dry Eye?

Essentially, it’s when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears to keep them properly lubricated. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even affect your vision if left unaddressed. But fear not, there are plenty of strategies and treatments available to help you find relief and keep those peepers happy.

So, What Exactly Does Dry Eye Feel Like?

Well, picture this: it’s like having tiny grains of sand in your eyes, accompanied by a constant urge to blink or rub them. It can be uncomfortable, irritating, and downright frustrating at times. You might also notice redness, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, or a general tiredness in your eyes.

But it’s not just about the discomfort—dry eye can also affect your vision. When your eyes lack sufficient moisture, your vision may become blurry or fluctuate, especially when focusing for extended periods. This can be particularly challenging for tasks like reading, working on a computer, or driving.

Does any of this sound familiar? Take our Dry Eye Quiz and see where you stand.

Will Dry Eye Ever Go Away?

Dry eye can vary in severity and duration. For some individuals, it may be a temporary issue triggered by factors like environmental conditions, certain medications, or extended screen time. In these cases, managing dry eye symptoms with lifestyle changes and occasional use of artificial tears may be sufficient. However, for others with chronic or underlying causes of dry eye, it may require ongoing management to keep symptoms under control.

Why Do People Get Dry Eye After LASIK?

Dry eye after LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) is a common occurrence due to temporary changes in tear production and distribution following the procedure. The creation of the corneal flap during LASIK can disrupt nerve endings responsible for signaling tear production, leading to reduced tear quantity and quality initially. However, for many patients, dry eye symptoms improve over time as the eyes heal and adapt to the changes made during LASIK.

Is Dry Eye Dangerous?

While dry eye itself is not typically considered dangerous, it can impact your quality of life and lead to discomfort, irritation, and vision fluctuations if left untreated. Additionally, chronic dry eye may increase the risk of eye infections or damage to the cornea over time. That’s why it’s essential to address dry eye symptoms promptly and work with your eye doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan.

What Are My Dry Eye Treatment Options?

The good news is that there are numerous treatment options available to help manage dry eye effectively. These may include:

Preservative Free Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide relief by supplementing natural tears and reducing dryness.
Prescription Eye Drops: Your eye doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops, such as anti-inflammatory drops or those that stimulate tear production.
Lifestyle Changes: Simple adjustments like staying hydrated, taking breaks from screens, using a humidifier, and eating a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can support overall eye health.
Punctal Plugs: These tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts can help conserve tears by preventing drainage, especially for individuals with severe dry eye.
Medications: In some cases, oral medications or supplements may be recommended to address underlying causes contributing to dry eye symptoms.
Specialty Treatments: Here at Invision Optometry, we offer a Dry Eye Recovery Program that provides relief through the use of Lipiflow and TearCare treatments which have proven to be beneficial for individuals with persistent dry eye.

While dry eye can be a challenging condition, it is manageable with the right knowledge and support. By understanding its impact on vision, exploring treatment options tailored to your needs, and maintaining regular follow-ups with your eye care team, you can take proactive steps toward achieving comfortable, healthy eyes.

We’d love to help you find relief! Schedule your dry eye evaluation today at: 619-222-2020.