Dry eye syndrome is a chronic and typically progressive condition. Depending on its cause and severity, it may not be completely curable. But in most cases, dry eyes can be managed successfully, usually resulting in noticeably greater eye comfort, fewer dry eye symptoms, and sometimes sharper vision as well. Because dry eye disease can have a number of causes, a variety of treatment approaches are used. Dr. Putnoi and his team will evaluate and recommend dry eye treatments that can reduce the signs and symptoms of dry eyes depending on the cause(s) and severity of your condition. Contact our office to schedule a consultation to determine the cause and recommend treatment options.
What causes dry eye?
Dry eye can occur when basal tear production decreases, tear evaporation increases, or tear composition is imbalanced.
Factors that can contribute to dry eye include the following:
- Medications including antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy to relieve symptoms of menopause, and medications for anxiety, Parkinson’s disease, and high blood pressure have been associated with dry eye.
- Advancing age is a risk factor for declines in tear production. Dry eye is more common in people age 50 years or older.
- Rosacea (an inflammatory skin disease) and blepharitis (an inflammatory eyelid disease) can disrupt the function of the Meibomian glands.
- Autoimmune disorders such as Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, scleroderma, and rheumatoid arthritis and other disorders such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and Vitamin A deficiency are associated with dry eye.
- Women are more likely to develop dry eye. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and after menopause have been linked with dry eye. Women also have an increased risk for autoimmune disorders.
- Windy, smoky, or dry environments increase tear evaporation.
- Seasonal allergies can contribute to dry eye.
- Prolonged periods of screen time encourage insufficient blinking.
- Laser eye surgery may cause temporary dry eye symptoms.
Intensive Pulsed Light Treatment (IPL) and Lipiflow
We now have Intensive Pulsed Light Treatment (IPL) and Lipiflow available at Putnoi Eye Care.
