Dry Eye FAQ
One of the most common eye conditions an optometrist treats is dry eye. If you are suffering from poor lubrication or inadequate moisture on the surface of your eyes, this is a sign of dry eyes. To get proper treatment for your dry eyes, you need to see a professional eye doctor. We have treated many patients with varying dry eye symptoms here at Monroe Family Eyecare. That's why we have compiled answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding this condition.
Who is at risk for dry eye?
Anyone can develop dry eyes, but some factors increase the risk, including:
Being over 50 years old- As you age, you are more prone to suffering from dry eyes more frequently because you may have developed an illness that causes dry eyes as a symptom. These include but are not limited to rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and lupus.
Being female- If you are a woman, and you are over 50, you are twice as likely to have dry eye as a man of the same age. Some reasons include taking oral contraceptives, female hormones like estrogen, your monthly cycle, and menopause.
Staring at a screen all day- When you stare at a screen all day, whether it is your phone, a tablet, or a computer screen, you don't blink as often as you should, and this can lead to dry eye.
Medications, wind, air pollution, eye surgeries, or certain medical conditions are all factors that can also contribute to dry eye.
What are the symptoms of dry eye?
Dry eyes are usually red and sore. Some other symptoms include:
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty driving at night
- Feeling like you have sand in your eyes
- Being sensitive to light
- Contact lenses become uncomfortable
- Burning or stinging feeling
- Watery eyes
- Mucus at the corner of the eye is stringy
How are dry eyes treated?
Our doctors can provide an eye exam to determine the best treatment for your eyes. In many cases, simply adding extra tears to your eyes will make them comfortable. We can prescribe lubricating eye drops depending on your condition. This works best with a mild case of dry eye. Keeping your natural tears in your eyes longer can also help. We can achieve this by blocking the tear ducts where the tears drain from your eye.
Contact Us for Eye and Vision Care
If you are looking for an optometrist in or around the Monroe area, you can count on Monroe Family Eyecare to provide quality eyecare for the entire family. We offer eye care for the entire family, and we can help you with your dry eye problem as well. Give us a call at (845) 783-1224 to make an appointment today.
