How Are Dry Eyes Treated?

Dry eye is a common condition that can affect anyone, causing uncomfortable symptoms such as stinging, burning, or even blurred vision. While the symptoms might seem like a minor nuisance, untreated dry eye can lead to more serious complications that impact your eye health and quality of life. At Centennial Family Eyecare, we understand how essential it is to treat dry eye effectively, targeting not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes.
 

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leaving your eyes inadequately lubricated. This lack of moisture can result from an imbalance in any of the three layers of the tear film: the oily layer, the watery layer, and the mucus layer. Contributing factors may include environmental conditions, prolonged screen use, aging, certain medications, or even medical conditions like diabetes and autoimmune disorders.
 

Symptoms of dry eye can vary but often include:
 

•           Redness and irritation

•           A gritty or foreign body sensation

•           Watery eyes

•           Sensitivity to light

•           Blurred vision
 

Identifying the Underlying Cause

Properly treating dry eye begins with a comprehensive examination by an optometrist. At Centennial Family Eyecare, our optometrists use specialized tools and tests to examine the quality and quantity of tears your eyes produce. By understanding whether the condition is due to inadequate tear production or rapid tear evaporation, we can create a tailored treatment plan that addresses the specific type of dry eye you’re experiencing.
 

Once the underlying cause is identified, your optometrist can recommend a range of treatment options designed to address both symptoms and root causes. Here are some common treatments that may be part of your customized dry eye management plan.
 

Artificial Tears and Lubricating Eye Drops

For mild cases, over-the-counter artificial tears can help add moisture to the eyes, providing temporary relief from dryness and irritation. These are often the first line of defense for occasional dry eye discomfort.
 

Prescription Eye Drops

In more persistent cases, prescription eye drops can help increase tear production and reduce inflammation, providing long-term relief. These medications work by targeting the inflammation associated with dry eye, which is especially beneficial for chronic cases.
 

Punctal Plugs

To address tear drainage issues, punctal plugs may be inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tears from draining too quickly from the surface of the eye. This helps keep the eyes moist and is beneficial for individuals with severe dry eye.
 

Nutritional Supplements

Certain supplements, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to support tear production and reduce inflammation. Your optometrist may recommend adding these supplements to your diet to improve overall eye health.
 

Finding Dry Eye Relief at Centennial Family Eyecare

By working with a trusted optometrist, you can effectively manage dry eye and protect your eye health for the future. At Centennial Family Eyecare, our comprehensive exams can uncover the root cause of your dry eye and allow us to recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye, schedule a consultation with Centennial Family Eyecare to find relief and improve your quality of life. Visit our offices in Las Vegas or Henderson, Nevada. Call (702) 941-7800, (702) 803-2020, or (702) 299-6200 to book an appointment today.