Dry Eye

Dry Eye

Dry Eye Dry eye is a common and often uncomfortable condition that affects millions of people worldwide. At Mission Optometric Center, we understand how disruptive dry eye can be and are here to help.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the quality of tears is insufficient to properly lubricate the eyes. Tears are essential for maintaining healthy vision and comfort. When your tear production is compromised, your eyes can become irritated, leading to a host of symptoms that affect your day-to-day life.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Several factors can contribute to the development of dry eye, including:

• Aging: Tear production decreases with age.

• Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air can cause tears to evaporate quickly.

• Medications: Certain medications, such as antihistamines or antidepressants, may reduce tear production.

• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome or diabetes can lead to chronic dry eye.

• Prolonged Screen Time: Staring at screens reduces blink rates, affecting tear production.

• Eyelid Problems: Blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction can disrupt the production or quality of tears.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye symptoms can vary in severity, but common signs include:

• A gritty or scratchy sensation

• Stinging or burning in the eyes

• Redness

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred vision

• Watery Eyes

Risks of Untreated Dry Eye

If left untreated, dry eye can lead to more severe complications, such as:

• Increased risk of eye infections: Tears protect the surface of the eye, and without proper lubrication, the eye is more vulnerable to bacteria and other contaminants.

• Damage to the cornea: Chronic dry eye can cause inflammation and, in extreme cases, lead to scarring of the cornea.

• Vision impairment: Dry eyes can cause fluctuations in vision, making daily tasks like reading or driving more difficult.

​​​​​​​Diagnosing Dry Eye for Personalized Treatment

At Mission Optometric Center, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing dry eye. Our optometrists will conduct a thorough examination of your eyes, including measuring the quantity and quality of your tears. We may use specialized diagnostic tests, such as a tear break-up time test or meibomian gland imaging, to assess the health of your tear film and glands. This personalized evaluation allows us to create a tailored treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your dry eye.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

There are a variety of effective treatments available for dry eye, depending on its severity and underlying causes:

• Omega-3 Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and improve the quality of your tears.

• Prescription Eye Drops: Medicated eye drops can increase tear production and reduce inflammation in the eyes.

• Eyelid Scrubs: Proper eyelid hygiene with eyelid scrubs can help manage conditions like blepharitis that contribute to dry eye.

• Punctal Plugs: Tiny plugs inserted into the tear ducts can help prevent tears from draining too quickly, keeping the eyes more lubricated.

• TearCare®: This innovative treatment is designed to address meibomian gland dysfunction. TearCare® uses controlled heat and gentle pressure to unclog the glands, restoring the natural flow of oils into the tears.

Comprehensive Dry Eye Care at Mission Optometric Center

At Mission Optometric Center, we offer comprehensive dry eye care tailored to meet each patient’s needs. From diagnosis to personalized treatment plans, our goal is to provide lasting relief for those suffering from dry eye. Whether you need prescription eye drops, lifestyle recommendations, or advanced treatments like TearCare®, we are here to support your eye health every step of the way.

Schedule an appointment with Mission Optometric Center today to learn more about how we can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your vision and comfort.