Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eyes occur when your eyes do not produce enough tears (low quantity) or the proper composition (poor quality).

Symptoms include:

  • Irritated, scratchy, dry or uncomfortable eyes

  • Redness of the eyes

  • Burning sensation of the eyes

  • A feeling of a foreign body in the eye

  • Blurred vision

  • Excessive watering

 There are several contributing factors of dry eye syndrome:

  • Age

  • Decrease blink rate when reading or staring at a computer, tablet or smart phone

  • Medications

  • Environmental Factors- dry climate, wind, ceiling fans, A/C and heating systems

  • Chemical or thermal burns

  • Certain health conditions- arthritis, thyroid problems, autoimmune disorders

  • Hormones- women during menopause

  • Inflammation of eyelids

  • Contact lens wear

In many cases, dry eye syndrome is a lifelong problem. Depending on the cause, there may or may not be a cure, but you can relieve the symptoms.   

Our doctors can evaluate the type of dry eye and provide the best treatment options for each individual patient. Treatment may include artificial tears, gels and ointments, hot compress and massage, lid scrubs, anti-inflammatory eye drops and oral medications, nutritional supplementation and blocking tear drainage with plugs or surgery.