Refine Optometry
What is Dry Eye?
What is Dry Eye?
What is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes are unable to produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to stay properly lubricated. This common condition can lead to irritation, discomfort, and even damage to the eye’s surface if left untreated.
Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease
If you are suffering from dry eye disease, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Burning or scratchy sensation in your eyes
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Irritated or watery eyes
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Eye redness, blurred vision, or eye fatigue
- Sensation of having something in your eyes
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
If you recognize these symptoms, it’s important to book an appointment with your dry eye specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
What is Dry Eye?
Key Information
Causes of Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye can result from a variety of factors, including:
- Age: Tear production naturally decreases as we age.
- Environmental factors: Wind, smoke, dry air, and prolonged screen time can contribute to dry eye.
- Medical conditions: Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disorders.
- Medications: Antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, and more can decrease tear production.
- Hormonal changes: Menopause and pregnancy can alter tear production.
- Refractive surgeries: Procedures like LASIK may lead to dry eyes post-surgery.
Advanced Dry Eye Treatments at Refine Optometry
Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL)
IPL therapy targets the inflamed blood vessels that contribute to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). It helps restore normal oil production to your tear film, reducing symptoms like irritation and dry eye.
TearCare®
TearCare® uses gentle heat to unblock your meibomian glands, improving oil flow and reducing tear evaporation. This treatment is ideal for patients suffering from evaporative dry eye due to MGD.
Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)
LLLT uses LED light technology to stimulate and repair the meibomian glands, helping improve tear quality and overall eye comfort.
ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment)
ZEST is an in-office deep cleansing procedure using okra-based technology to clear debris and bacteria from your eyelids, improving eyelid health and relieving dry eye symptoms.
Amniotic Membrane Therapy
In severe cases, amniotic membranes may be placed on the eye to promote healing of the cornea, especially when dry eye has caused damage or scarring.
Prescription Medications
For patients who need additional support, your dry eye doctor can offer prescription medications to manage inflammation and tear production.
At-Home Treatments for Dry Eye
In addition to in-office treatments, we encourage ongoing at-home care to help manage your dry eye condition:
- Warm compresses to stimulate oil glands
- Lid scrubs to maintain eyelid hygiene
- Over-the-counter artificial tears to supplement moisture
- Hydration and lifestyle changes to support tear production
- Supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve tear quality and reduce inflammation associated with dry eye
What is Dry Eye?
Book a Consultation
Refine Optometry provides a comprehensive Dry Eye Spa experience, combining expert care with advanced treatments to diagnose and address dry eyes effectively. As your trusted dry eye doctor, we focus on ensuring long-term comfort and vision improvement. Book a personalized consultation today to find relief from dry, irritated eyes.
