Dry eye can be an irritating and upsetting condition for many patients. At Crown Point Optometry, we're your source for dry eye treatment in Hamilton Ontario. We help patients identify dry eye causes and get the dry eye treatment they need to feel better.
What is Dry Eye
Dry eye disease is a condition that occurs when a patient doesn't have enough quality tears to lubricate the eyes. This condition is most common among seniors but can occur in anyone for a variety of reasons. Some of the common reasons that patients experience dry eye include:
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Environmental conditions - Smoke, allergens and dry air can all cause dry eyes
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Age - Dry eyes occur naturally in older adults as a part of the aging process
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Medications - Certain types of medicines can cause dry eye, but this usually clears up when the medications have stopped.
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Pregnancy - Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause a patient to develop dry eyes.
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Medical conditions and diseases - Certain types of medical conditions can cause dry eyes. Thyroid problems, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis can all cause patients to experience dry eye symptoms.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
Recognizing the symptoms of dry eye can help a patient decide when it is time to go to the eye doctor. Some of the common symptoms of dry eye include:
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Scratchy, burning eyes
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Itchy eyes
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Decreased tear volume
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Red eyes
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Excess eye-watering
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Blurry vision
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The feeling that something is "in the eye"
Patients who have these symptoms for more than a few days should see the eye doctor right away for diagnosis and treatment.
Dry Eye Treatment and Management
Dry eye is treated by managing the patient tears and tear production. Most patients who come in with dry eyes will get treatment by using artificial tears through over the counter products. Some patients need prescription products to treat their dry eyes. Often patients will be asked to make small lifestyle changes that can help them keep their eyes comfortable. Examples of changes that patients might make include:
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Using a humidifier at home
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Making a point of blinking when looking at bright objects like computer screens and televisions
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Taking nutritional supplements
Sometimes dry eye is treated with a standard surgical procedure that blocks the tear ducts. During this procedure, the tear ducts might be closed off with small removable plugs. Other times, tear ducts might be sewn shut. This re-routes tears back into the eye so that they stay consistently moist.
Contact Your Eye Doctor in Hamilton Ontario
As your eye doctor in Hamilton Ontario, we're your source for dry eye treatment. Call today for an appointment at 905-543-1110.