Dry eye disease is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and negatively affect your quality of life. At Derby City Eye Care, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye disease to help you achieve long-lasting relief.
What is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to inflammation and damage to the surface of the eye. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent dryness
- Itching and burning sensation
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- A feeling of something in the eye
Causes of Dry Eye Disease
Several factors can contribute to dry eye disease, including:
- Aging: Tear production tends to decrease with age.
- Medications: Certain medications can reduce tear production.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, smoke, or dry air.
- Contact Lenses: Prolonged use can contribute to dry eyes.
- Screen Time: Staring at a computer or phone screen for extended periods.
Individuals that suffer from certain medical conditions such as diabetes, blepharitis, lupus, arthritis and thyroid problems are more vulnerable to developing DED. Other causes can be due to eye surgery including LASIK, certain conditions in which the eyelids don’t close properly or extended contact lens use.
Diagnosis of Dry Eye Disease
At Derby City Eye Care, Jeremy D. Fowler, O.D. uses advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate the quality and quantity of your tears. This helps us determine the underlying cause of your dry eye symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Dry Eye Disease
We offer a variety of treatment options to manage and alleviate dry eye symptoms:
Artificial Tears
Over-the-counter artificial tear solutions can provide temporary relief by supplementing your natural tear production.
Prescription Medications
In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary to reduce inflammation and increase tear production. These can include anti-inflammatory eye drops or medications that stimulate tear production.
Lifestyle and Environmental Changes
Making simple changes to your lifestyle and environment can significantly improve dry eye symptoms. This can include using a humidifier, taking breaks from screen time, and wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and sun.