SYMPTOMS OF DRY EYE DISEASE
- Blurred Vision
- Fluctuating Vision
- Watery Eyes (What?! Yes, this is a dry eye symptom.)
- Redness
- Burning
- Gritty Feeling
- Irritated Eyes
- Light Sensitivity
- Contact Lens Discomort
What Is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry Eye is a chronic disease of the surface of the eye. Currently, there is no cure. But it can be managed with a variety of treatments. It is a chronic disease meaning long term treatment is needed. Proper treatment makes the disease manageable, and can reduce the risk of damage to the eye.
Approximately 15-20% of the U.S. population suffers from dry eye. Factors that increase your risk include:
- Electronic device use - computers, cellphones, etc.
- Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Allergies
- Wearing contact lenses
- Hormonal changes
- Being older than 50
- Diet lacking in Vitamin A or Omega 3 type foods
Are there long term effects of dry eye?
There are 3 types of the disease. Aqueous deficient dry eye means the quantity of tears is low. Evaporative deficient dry eye means there isn't enough oil in the tears. Mixed dry eye is a combination of aqueous deficient and evaporative types.
What should I do if I experience Dry Eye symptoms?
Contact an eye care provider to discuss symptoms and treatment plan.
There are several treatment options available, depending on the type and severity of the disease. Examples include lid hygiene products, lubricant drops, prescription medication, supplements, intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments, and radio frequency (RF) treatments. Often a combination of treatments is needed.
Solutions at the Eye Care Group
At our Madison location, our Eye Care Clinic offers multiple treatment options using the latest technology, including IPL and RF. These treatments target inflammation in the eyelids and increase the amount of tears in a safe, non-invasive way. Intense pulsed light (IPL) uses a strong pulse of light to shrink cells and blood vessels that cause inflammation in the eyelids. An RF device (radio frequency) uses heat to stimulate the glands that make tears.
Contact us to see our specially trained staff and Dr. Catherine Green for a personalized treatment plan, which can give you the vision you deserve for many years to come.
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