Dry Eye Treatment

Understanding Dry Eye Disease and Treatment Options at Optic Gallery

Dry eye disease is a widespread condition that affects millions of Americans. It occurs when your eyes either fail to produce enough tears or the tears you make are of poor quality. This can lead to persistent discomfort and even vision-threatening complications if left untreated. At Optic Gallery, we are dedicated to helping you manage and treat dry eye symptoms so that you can maintain healthy, comfortable vision.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye happens when your eyes can’t produce adequate moisture or the quality of your tears isn't sufficient to keep your eyes hydrated. This condition can significantly impact your daily life, making it difficult to perform simple tasks like reading, driving at night, or wearing contact lenses.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye Include:

• Blurred vision

• Burning or stinging sensations

• Redness

• Sensitivity to light

• Scratchy or gritty feeling

• Eye fatigue

• Uncontrolled tearing

• Stringy mucus around the eyes

• Difficulty with nighttime driving or wearing contact lenses

If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be time to see your optometrist.

Why Dry Eye Symptoms Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Dry eye isn't just uncomfortable—it can lead to more severe complications over time. Persistent dryness can damage the surface of your eyes, increasing your risk of corneal infections, scarring, and even vision loss. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Who Is at Risk for Dry Eye?

Certain factors increase your risk of developing dry eye disease, such as:

• Age and Hormonal Changes: As we age, tear production decreases. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can also impact tear quality.

• Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and other medications can reduce tear production.

• Environment: Dry air, wind, and exposure to smoke can aggravate dry eyes.

• Health Conditions: Thyroid disorders, rosacea, sleep apnea, and past eye surgeries (like LASIK) are all known to increase the risk of dry eye.

• Lifestyle Factors: Prolonged screen time, contact lens use, and dehydration can also contribute to dry eye symptoms.
  
  
  

How Can Dry Eye Be Treated?

At Optic Gallery, we offer a variety of treatments tailored to your specific needs. These may include:

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide relief by supplementing your natural tears.

• Prescription Eye Drops: For more severe cases, prescription drops like Restasis or Xiidra can help increase tear production and reduce inflammation.

• Punctal Plugs: These tiny plugs are inserted into the tear ducts to help retain moisture on the eye’s surface, providing longer-lasting relief.

• Lid Hygiene Therapy: Proper cleaning of the eyelids and the use of warm compresses can alleviate symptoms caused by inflammation or blockage of the glands responsible for tear production.

• Nutritional Supplements: A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin A can improve tear quality. Foods like fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and vegetables are essential for eye health.

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Reducing screen time, using a humidifier, and wearing protective eyewear can help minimize environmental triggers.

How to Prevent Dry Eye

Although some risk factors for dry eye, like age or health conditions, are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing it:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Avoid Smoking: Smoke can irritate your eyes and worsen symptoms.

• Follow a Balanced Diet: Incorporate omega-3-rich foods such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, as well as vitamin A-rich foods like carrots, broccoli, and sweet potatoes.

• Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from wind and UV, and use artificial tears as needed to keep them moist.
  
  

We Offer Personalized Care for Dry Eye at Optic Gallery

At Optic Gallery, our experienced optometrists are highly skilled in diagnosing, treating, and managing dry eye disease. Whether you're experiencing mild discomfort or more severe symptoms, we can help develop a personalized treatment plan to restore comfort and protect your eye health. If you suspect you have dry eyes, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Request your appointment online.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Eye Health

Your eyes are essential to your quality of life. If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms, relief is possible. Contact one of our many locations across Las Vegas, Henderson, Reno, and Sparks to schedule your consultation and discover the best treatment options for your needs. Find an Optic Gallery location near you.