Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition that causes intense discomfort and can even significantly impact your daily life.
Generally, it occurs when the eyes produce insufficient or sub-quality tears, leading to dryness and inflammation.
At Uptown Eye Care in Monticello, we provide comprehensive dry eye care, helping patients find relief and improve their quality of life.
Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can be triggered by various factors, often related to lifestyle, environment, and underlying health conditions. Some of the most common causes include:
- Aging, which can naturally reduce tear production over time
- Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, contraceptive use, or menopause
- Environmental factors like wind, smoke, dry climates, and prolonged screen time
- Digital eye strain after spending long hours in front of screens
- Certain medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications
- Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes
- Dehydration, which reduces tear production, leading to dry eyes
Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome
The symptoms of dry eye syndrome can range from mild to severe and may include:
- A feeling of constant dryness or irritation in the eyes. A gritty sensation often accompanies this
- The eyes may appear red and inflamed due to insufficient lubrication and irritation
- A burning or stinging feeling, especially after prolonged periods of reading or screen use
- Vision may become temporarily blurry
- Excessive tearing as the eyes try to compensate for the dryness
- Headaches due to the strain and discomfort they cause
Treatment Options for Dry Eye Syndrome
Fortunately, we offer several treatment options for managing dry eye syndrome. The best approach often depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying causes.
- Preservative-Free Eye Drops for Dry Eyes: Artificial tears lubricate the eyes, and patients can use them as needed throughout the day. This equals relief without the irritation preservatives might cause.
- Prescription Eye Drops: Medications prescribed by our eye doctors can help reduce inflammation and increase tear production.
- Lifestyle Changes: From using warm compresses that help open up the oil glands in your eyelids to using a humidifier for dry eyes, these modifications can significantly alleviate symptoms. Taking omega-3 supplements, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding direct exposure to wind or smoke can further support eye health.
- IPL Therapy: Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy targets the underlying causes of dry eye by reducing inflammation and improving the function of the meibomian glands. Finding IPL for dry eyes near you offers lasting relief compared to other treatment options.
Book an Appointment for Dry Eye Relief
Trust our dry eye center at Uptown Eye Care for personalized dry eye treatments in Monticello.
Dry Eye Syndrome FAQs
Can Dry Eyes Cause Headaches?
Yes, dry eyes can cause headaches. This is because dryness can cause eye strain or discomfort over time. That's why it's important to manage dry eye symptoms effectively.
Can Dehydration Cause Dry Eyes?
Yes, dehydration can lead to reduced tear production, which can cause or worsen dry eye symptoms. Staying well-hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy tear production.
Pink Eye Versus Dry Eye: How Can I Tell the Difference?
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) and dry eyes have some overlapping symptoms, such as redness and irritation. However, discharge, swelling, and a gritty sensation in the eye typically accompany pink eye. In contrast, dry eye is more often associated with dryness, burning, and blurred vision.
A dry eye doctor near you can help differentiate your symptoms.