The first step towards dry eye treatment is proper detection and diagnosis. The eye doctors at our Hoffman Estates eye care center are experienced in treating dry eye and can help you find the relief you seek. Contact our team to schedule a dry eye consultation or continue reading to learn about the symptoms as well as preventative steps you can take for dry eye.
What are Common Symptoms of Dry Eye?
Dry eye syndrome is caused by a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eye. As the name suggests, the most apparent symptom of the condition is persistent dryness. However, as odd as it may sound, watery eyes can also be a symptom. This is because dryness on the surface of the eye can overstimulate tear production as a protective mechanism.
Other symptoms of dry eye include itchiness, red eyes and a burning sensation. Another common symptom is what’s known as foreign body sensation — the feeling that debris or something else is in your eye.
If left untreated, chronic dry eye can cause serious complications, including frequent eye infections, inflammation and scarring of the cornea, which may lead to permanent vision loss.
How Can I Prevent Dry Eye?
A very significant percentage of dry eye cases are caused by inadequate oil being secreted from the meibomian glands. When these glands become clogged or malfunction, the tears evaporate too quickly, causing the eyes to dry out. This form of dry eye, known as evaporative dry eye, can be controlled or prevented by taking the following steps:
- Limit your exposure to fans, air conditioners and hair dryers.
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air.
- Take frequent breaks during long tasks (e.g., reading, watching television) and blink often.
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to block wind from reaching your eyes.
- Use artificial tears to add moisture to your eyes when necessary.
- Take an omega-3 fatty acid supplement.
Dry Eye Treatment
Depending on the cause and severity, chronic dry eye may or may not be completely curable. However, in most cases, dry eye can be controlled with proper treatment. The trusted ophthalmologists at Mack Eye Center have years of experience treating patients with dry eye. We can recommend the best solution to alleviate your chronic eye irritation, including:
- Prescription eye drops to lubricate the eyes and reduce inflammation.
- Protective sunglasses that keep out dust, wind and other irritants
- Intense pulsed light therapy to aid oil production of the meibomian glands
- PROKERA is a simple procedure and is easily inserted and removed in our office. Once removed your cornea is rejuvenated so you can see and feel better. In a recent patient survey, 93% of patients with Dry Eye said they felt better after treatment with PROKERA. For more information visit www.prokerainfo.com
Contact Mack Eye Center Today
For more information on dry eye syndrome, including treatment options, please schedule a consultation with Mack Eye Center. At our state-of-the-art facility, our eye doctors help patients like you achieve clear, healthier vision. Please call us today at (847) 755-9393.
