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Dry Eyes

Our Chapel Hill Ophthalmology Discusses Dry Eye and Treatment

Do your eyes feel dry all the time? You might have dry eye syndrome, a condition that occurs from a chronic lack of moisture in the eyes. This syndrome ranges from mild irritation to significant damage, depending on the person and his or her circumstances. Dry eyes are common, with nearly half of Americans experiencing it at some point. Here at Chapel Hills Vision Clinic, we thought it would be worthwhile to discuss dry eye syndrome with fellow Colorado Spring residents. 

woman rubbing her eyes

Causes of Dry Eye

In order to maintain good eye health, the eyes need to stay constantly lubricated. Sometimes the eyes aren't able to produce enough tears, resulting in dry eye syndrome. The lack of moisture could be due to corneal inflammation or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. People who live in dry or windy climates are more susceptible to tear evaporation. Other risk factors include aging, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid issues, and certain medications such as antihistamines or antidepressants. 

Depending on the cause, dry eye syndrome can impair a person's vision. Dry eye can also lower a person's quality of life, creating a constant sensation of eye pain, scratchiness, or blurred vision. In order to avoid these problems, medical experts recommend that you visit an eye health provider on a regular basis. 

Detecting Dry Eye Symptoms

Eye doctors will need to know your symptoms before diagnosing you with dry eye syndrome. Dry eye symptoms include eye irritation, dryness, burning sensation, scratchiness, and tired eyes. In some cases, a stringy liquid will discharge from the eyes. Some people describe the sensation of something getting stuck in their eyes. While many of these symptoms start off mild, this condition can cause serious damage in the long term. 

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

There are a number of treatments that will help manage dry eye syndrome. The re-hydration method will use artificial tears, serum eye drops, or other lubrication ointments to supply the eyes with more moisture. Sometimes medication is prescribed to stimulate tear production. Environmental control can also help in avoiding dry eye; a humidifier will add more moisture to the air, for instance. 

Treatment will depend on the patient and his or her individual circumstances. 

Contact Our Chapel Hill Ophthalmology in Chapel Hill, NC Today!

In order to detect dry eye syndrome early on, it is recommended that you visit an optometrist for annual checkups. Once the eye examiner is able to determine whether dry eye syndrome is present, the doctor can come up with a suitable treatment plan for you. Chapel Hills Vision Clinic is offering dry eye treatment to the people of Colorado Springs. Feel free to contact us at (919) 942-8701 to learn more about our dry eye syndrome treatment options.

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  • "Over the years, Dr. Wood and the whole staff of Wood Wizards have demonstrated a high caliber of professional acumen and kindness. And now, all these years later, cataract surgery has gone brilliantly well in the hands of this fine group. Thank you all."
    E.C. April 2018
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    Scott L. - 05/2016