Dry Eye Treatment

Dry eye disease is a chronic condition caused by unstable tears and inflammation, and leads to symptoms such as redness, burning, irritation, gritty sensation and blurry vision. Once you have dry eye, your symptoms may come and go and over time will progressively get worse. Our Optometrists at Optic Gallery can help prevent the progression of dry eye and manage your symptoms, so you can enjoy life to the fullest.

What are the symptoms of dry eye?

Approximately 30 million Americans are affected by dry eye. In fact, one in every three eye exams are related to symptoms of dry eyes. Dry eye disease puts you at risk for vision-threatening complications such as corneal infections or scarring.

Dry eye can appear as:

• Problems wearing contact lenses
• Blurred vision
• Light sensitivity
• Burning
• Redness
• Scratchy sensation
• Stinging
• Irritation
• Eye fatigue
• Stringy mucus
• Difficulty with nighttime driving
• Uncontrolled tearing

If you have poor-quality tears or your eyes don’t produce enough tears, you might develop dry eyes.

Am I at risk for dry eye disease?

The most common risk factors for developing dry eyes include:

• Hormone changes
• Certain medications
• Previous eye surgery
• Pregnancy
• Nerve damage
• Eye strain
• Problems with the eyelids
• Dry air, wind, or smoke
• Family history of dry eyes
• Wearing contact lenses
• Sleep Apnea
• Thyroid Conditions
• Rosacea

How can I reduce my risk for dry eye?

Avoid smoking, dehydration, and eat a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A. Foods rich in these nutrients include broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes, nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and fatty fish.