Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can be a frustrating condition that significantly impacts your day-to-day life without proper treatment. Understanding the causes and symptoms of this condition can help you get the treatment necessary to see clearly and comfortably again. Palmetto Eye in Rock Hill, SC, offers multiple treatment options to relieve dry eye syndrome. Continue reading to learn more about this condition and how our eye doctor treats it.
Causes Dry Eye Syndrome
This condition often occurs due to issues with your tear quality or production. Your eyes might not make enough tears due to natural aging, certain medications, thyroid disorders, and other medical conditions. Tears that evaporate too quickly also lead to dry eyes. You may experience this due to problems with the meibomian glands, infrequent blinking, or exposure to smoke, dry environments, or wind. Other causes of dry eyes include wearing contact lenses and not having enough vitamin A in your diet.
Symptoms to Look Out For
While eye irritation from dryness is the most blatant sign of dry eyes, you may also experience several other symptoms that impact your visual clarity and comfort. Visit your optometrist if you experience any of the following:
• Light sensitivity
• Stringy discharge
• Burning or stinging
• Red eyes
• Trouble or inability to wear contacts
• Gritty sensation in your eyes
• Tearing or watery eyes
• Eye fatigue
• Blurry vision
An eye exam allows your optometrist to rule out other conditions that may cause these symptoms. They can then provide appropriate treatment to help improve your visual clarity and comfort.
Treatment Options for Dry Eyes
Your treatment will depend on the cause of dry eyes. Some options boost tear production, while others stop tears from drying too quickly. Your eye doctor may recommend the following to treat your dry eyes:
• Artificial tears
• Prescription eye drops
• Specialized contact lenses for dry eyes
• Medications to ease eye inflammation
• Punctal plugs
• Warm compresses to remove gland blockages
• Eyelid massages
Talk with your eye doctor to determine which treatment option best suits your visual needs and lifestyle. They can also recommend ways to lower your risk of developing dry eye syndrome. Preventative measures may include taking screen breaks to rest your eyes, using a humidifier to add air moisture, and wearing wraparound sunglasses.
Visit Our Optometrist in Rock Hill, SC, for Dry Eye Treatment Today
If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms and need treatment from an “optometrist near you,” look no further than Palmetto Eye in Rock Hill, SC. Our optometrist can examine your eyes and recommend treatment to help you see clearly and comfortably again, so call us and schedule an eye exam today at (803) 985-2020 to keep your eyes healthy and vision strong.
