Understanding Dry Eye and The Treatments at City of Vision Eye Care
Dr. Erin Flores prepares a scleral contact lens.
July marks Dry Eye Awareness Month, a time to shed light on a common yet often misunderstood condition. At City of Vision Eye Care, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support for those dealing with dry eyes. Let’s explore what dry eyes are, the symptoms, and the various treatments available.
What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a condition where your eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and providing clear vision. When the tear production and drainage are not in balance, dry eye symptoms can occur. According to the National Eye Institute, it is more common in women than men, particularly after menopause.
Avenova eye drops can be used to help combat dry eye symptoms.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
According to a study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology, approximately 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with dry eye disease .
Dry eye can present with a variety of symptoms, including:
- A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in your eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye redness
- A feeling of having something in your eyes
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Difficulty with nighttime driving
- Watery eyes, which is the body’s response to the irritation of dry eyes
- Blurred vision or eye fatigue
Treatment Options for Dry Eye
Fortunately, there are many treatments available to manage and alleviate the symptoms of dry eye. These include:
- Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief.
- Prescription Eye Drops: Medications like Restasis help reduce inflammation and increase tear production.
- Punctal Plugs: Tiny plugs inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tear drainage and keep the eyes moist.
- Eye Masks:This method improves tear production. Warm compresses provided by heated eye masks can stimulate the Meibomian glands in the eyelids, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of tears. This oil helps to keep the tears from evaporating too quickly.
- Lid Hygiene: Regular cleaning of the eyelids to remove debris and reduce inflammation. Avenova, the leading cleanser in lid and lash hygiene is now available at our office.
- Lifestyle Changes: Increasing humidity in the environment, taking breaks during screen time, and staying hydrated.
- Scleral Contact Lenses:One of the key features of scleral lenses is the fluid-filled reservoir that sits between the lens and the cornea. This reservoir provides continuous moisture to the eye, alleviating dryness and maintaining hydration.
Dr. Flores’s Dry Eye Clinic
At City of Vision Eyecare, we are proud to offer a dedicated dry eye clinic led by Dr. Flores. As a dry eye sufferer herself, Dr. Flores understands the impact this condition can have on daily life. Her personal experience fuels her passion for providing effective and personalized treatment plans to her patients. She works diligently to identify the underlying causes of dry eye and tailor treatments to meet the unique needs and lifestyles of each patient.
Dr. Flores’s clinic utilizes the latest diagnostic tools and treatments to ensure patients receive the best possible care. Whether it’s through advanced medications, in-office procedures, or simple lifestyle recommendations, her goal is to provide lasting relief and improve the quality of life for her patients.
Visit Us for Relief
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of dry eye, don’t hesitate to seek help. At City of Vision Eyecare, we are committed to supporting our patients with top-notch care and compassion. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Flores today and take the first step towards clearer, more comfortable vision.
Remember, managing dry eyes is possible, and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Let us help you find the relief you deserve. Visit us at our Rio Rancho office or contact us through our website to learn more about our dry eye clinic and other eye care services.
At City of Vision Eye Care, we are a family and consider it a privilege to provide for your eye care needs.
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