Dry Eye

Causes, symptoms, evaluation, and treatment at Limestone Eyecare

Dry eye occurs when the eye does not properly produce tears of the correct quantity or quality, meaning tears are insufficient to keep the eye nourished and healthy. Tears are important to keeping eyes cleared of debris and bacteria. The absence of proper tears can lead to a number of discomforts, so don’t hesitate to contact an optometrist if you’re experiencing issues and think you may need dry eye treatment.

You may also hear dry eye syndrome referred to as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or dysfunctional tear syndrome. Regardless of what you hear it called, symptoms often go undiagnosed and untreated, leaving our Kingston residents wondering if they’ve been struck with a severe case of allergies.

CAUSES OF DRY EYE

MEDICAL

Dry eye may be a side effect of another medication that you are taking. Possible culprits: antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medicines, anti-depressants. Disorders of the glands in the eyelid, the thyroid or the immune system can cause inflammation and drying.

AGE

It is not uncommon for adults over the age of 65 to experience dry eye symptoms.

EXPOSURE

Long-term contact wear, extended periods spent staring at screens (computer vision syndrome) and exposure to windy and dry climates.

HORMONES

Women who are pregnant or using oral contraceptives may be subjected to dry eye resulting from hormonal changes.

Experiencing These Symptoms?

  • A sensation of burning, itching, stinging or the feeling that something is stuck in your eye
  • Excess watering/drying of eyes or discharging
  • Blurred or impaired vision/eye fatigue (particularly at the end of the day)

Do not mistake dry eye symptoms for tired eyes or allergies. If left untreated, these symptoms can become chronic, more difficult to improve and, in some cases, permanent.

Schedule an Evaluation for Dry Eye

To help alleviate discomfort in your day-to-day, avoid dry conditions and ensure you are allowing time for your eyes to rest between intensive use. If this isn’t doing the trick, it’s probably time to come see Dr. Justin Epstein at Limestone Eyecare for an eye exam.

Our eye evaluations and specific testing will help us determine the quality of tears produced by your eyes and what treatment will best serve as a solution. Whether it be state-of-the-art techniques and medications, or counseling on your lifestyle and the impact that it is having, our treatments work to restore the balance of moisture in the eyes and minimize discomfort. If the above symptoms sound like you, schedule an appointment at our office.