What is Dry Eye?

 
 

Dry Eye Syndrome is a condition that occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision. When the eyes are dry, they can become red, irritated, and uncomfortable. Dry Eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, certain medications, medical conditions, environmental factors, and prolonged use of digital devices.

 
 

What are the symptoms of Dry Eye?

 

  • A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in the eyes

  • Redness and irritation

  • Sandy, gritty feeling

  • Excessive tearing or watery eyes

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Eye fatigue

  • Intermittent, fluctuating blurry vision

  • Sharp stabbing pain

  • Feeling like something is in your eye when there is nothing

 
 
 

What are the causes of Dry Eye?

Dry Eye is characterized as a multifactorial disease, implying that it is usually caused by a combination of factors that increase the risk of developing the condition.

The main risk factors associated with Dry Eye development in patients include:

 

The main risk factors associated with Dry Eye development include:

  • Number of birthdays and hormonal changes

  • Environmental conditions such as air conditioning in cars, offices, and airplanes

  • Poor diet and dehydration

  • Increased use of mobile and desktop devices (phone, tablet, or PC), leading to reduced blinking

  • Contact lens wear

  • Certain eye surgeries

  • Certain medical conditions such as Diabetes and Sjögren’s Syndrome

  • Use of anti-histamines and some other medications

 
 
 

Experiencing Dry Eye symptoms?

If you are experiencing symptoms of Dry Eye, it's important to schedule an evaluation with an optometrist. During the evaluation, our optometrist will examine your eyes to determine the underlying cause of your Dry Eye and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

What to expect during your dry eye evaluation

Scheduling a Dry Eye evaluation with an optometrist is an important step in managing this condition and maintaining good eye health. We will ask about your medical history, medications you are taking, and your daily habits to better understand your situation. In order to evaluate your Dry Eye severity, we will provide a questionnaire to assess your symptom level.

 

We also believe in leveraging the latest technologies and equipment to assess:

  • Debris level in your tear film

  • Tear film quality and how long it lasts

  • Tear glands (meibomian glands) & their level of function

  • Level of redness

 
 
 

Personalized treatment plans for Dry Eye

Developing a treatment plan can improve symptoms of Dry Eye for a better quality of life. A personalized treatment plan can include recommended lifestyle modifications as well as therapies for your eyes based on your unique needs. Call ☎ (507) 322-0044 to schedule a dry eye consultation with You and Eye Family Eye Care to create your customized treatment plan.

 

Potential Lifestyle changes

  • Reduce excessive screen time

  • Reduce exposure to dusty, windy environments

  • Increase water intake

  • Increase Omega 3 supplementation

  • Lid hygiene practices

 
 

prescribed Therapies

  • Warm compresses

  • Punctal plugs

  • Autologous serum tears

  • Prescription eye drops or medication

  • Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)

  • Over-the-counter artificial tears