Dry eye can cause itching or swelling and make tasks like reading or driving challenging. At Lamorinda Optometry in Lafayette, CA, we provide various treatments to relieve any uncomfortable symptoms and help you see clearly. Before scheduling your appointment, learn about some causes of dry eye and why treatment is important below:
Understanding Dry Eye
Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eye don’t produce enough tears to stay lubricated. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even potential damage to the surface of the eye if left untreated. However, it’s important to first determine what is causing the condition for effective treatment.
Causes and Symptoms
Several factors can contribute to the development of dry eye. Environmental factors such as dry air, wind, and smoke can increase the rate of tear evaporation, leading to dryness. Along with that, aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, and autoimmune diseases can also affect tear production and result in dry eye symptoms.
The symptoms of dry eye can vary from person to person. However, they often include burning sensations, grittiness, redness, and sensitivity to light. These symptoms can be intermittent or persistent and may worsen in certain situations, such as when reading or using digital screens.
Diagnosing Dry Eye
If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eye, it's essential to schedule an eye exam with our optometrists. During the eye exam, we will assess your tear production, evaluate the quality of your tears, and examine the health of the surface of your eyes. Specialized tests, such as tear osmolarity measurements or tear film break-up time, may also be performed to accurately diagnose dry eye.
Treatments
Treatment for dry eye is designed to alleviate symptoms, improve tear production and quality, and protect the ocular surface. Depending on the severity and underlying cause of your dry eye, treatment options may include over-the-counter or prescription eye drops and medications to reduce inflammation. Our eye doctors may also recommend lifestyle modifications, such as using a humidifier and taking regular breaks when utilizing digital devices. In some cases, procedures or surgeries might be suggested to conserve tears or improve tear drainage.
Contact Lamorinda Optometry for an Appointment Today
If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eye, let our team at Lamorinda Optometry in Lafayette, CA, help. schedule an eye exam with us at Lamorinda Optometry. With personalized treatment, we can ease your symptoms and improve your overall health. To schedule your appointment, contact us at (925) 283-8502 today. When you’re seeking an optometrist near me, we are ready to assist!