Dry Eye Treatments in Raleigh-Durham
At Kelly Eye Center, we help patients experience relief from dry eye through the use of advanced medications and dry eye treatment in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Causes of Dry Eye
Dry eye is a condition that is more common than you might think. Over 10 million Americans suffer from dry eye, but the good news is that there are effective dry eye treatments available.
Dry Eye Syndrome is common among older adults, those who spend a lot of time in front of a computer screen, or those who have been exposed to excessive amounts of sun, wind, dust, or smoke. Certain medications and allergy treatments can also cause dry eye.
All of these factors can reduce the eye’s ability to produce tears and create a chemical imbalance naturally. As a result, dry spots will appear on the clear front surface of the eye and cause irritation.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
Common symptoms of dry eye include:
- Itching
- Buring
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Scratchy sensation
- Excessive watering
- General irritation or discomfort
These symptoms can be further aggravated after long periods of reading, watching television, or driving.
Treatment of Dry Eye
While dry eye cannot be completely cured, there are treatments performed by your dry eye specialist that can alleviate your symptoms and provide relief. Lubricating eye drops and oral medications are available, and there are steps you can take to reduce symptoms.
Using a warm compress and performing lid scrubs two to three times a day can help eliminate discomfort. A simple mixture of baby shampoo and water can be used to gently scrub your eyelids and lashes to improve hygiene and reduce symptoms.
For those who wear contact lenses, it is important to follow instructions for cleaning and disinfecting your lenses closely. If your contacts are not cleaned regularly, the lenses can absorb your tear film and create a cloudy protein residue on the lens. You can also use artificial tears to provide added moisture when needed.
If you suffer from dry eye, there are treatments available. Kelly Eye Center has helped patients across Raleigh and the Triangle find the right treatment plan for their needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the help you need to enjoy better vision and eye health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is susceptible to developing dry eye?
Dry eye is more common in older adults, particularly those over the age of 50, due to natural age-related changes in tear production. Women are also more susceptible, especially during menopause, pregnancy, or while using oral contraceptives, as hormonal changes can affect tear film stability. People living in low-humidity environments or those frequently exposed to air conditioning, heating systems, or wind are at higher risk. Contact lens wearers may experience dry eye symptoms due to decreased oxygen transmission to the cornea. Additionally, individuals with certain autoimmune disorders such as Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus often experience significantly reduced tear production, leading to dry eye.
Will dry eye affect my daily activities and quality of life?
Yes, dry eye can significantly affect daily activities and quality of life. The persistent dryness, irritation, and discomfort led to fluctuating vision, which can make activities like reading, driving, and working on a computer challenging. Eye fatigue and strain are common, reducing productivity and the ability to focus on tasks for extended periods. In severe cases, dry eye can lead to increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), making outdoor activities uncomfortable. Moreover, the constant need to use artificial tears or other treatments can be cumbersome, further impacting daily routines and overall well-being.