Our team at Family Eyecare of Glendale wants you to know that we have not just one, but two eye doctors who can diagnose and treat dry eye. While it may not sound like a serious problem, as optometry professionals, we assure you that it can cause issues and even interfere with your vision.
What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a condition that causes, as you may have guessed, dry eyes. It commonly occurs as you age, but it can also develop after undergoing LASIK eye surgery. Certain medications can cause it as a side effect, and certain medical conditions such as thyroid disease, lupus, or scleroderma may contribute to dry eye.
Symptoms
In addition to the sensation of dryness in your eyes, you may also experience eye irritation, burning sensation, redness, or even blurry vision. Some people feel like there's something in their eye, as if they have sand or grit in it. There may be stringy discharge from the eye. Interestingly, some individuals with dry eye actually produce an excessive amount of tears as their eyes attempt to compensate for the dryness. However, these tears have poor composition and fail to properly lubricate the eyes.
Diagnosing Dry Eye
Fortunately, the process of diagnosing dry eye is relatively easy for the patient. Our eye doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and condition, such as whether you experience eye irritation, burning, blurry vision, or other signs of dry eye. We will also inquire about your lifestyle, including the amount of time you spend on computers or electronic devices. In some cases, we may need to take a sample of your tears to test their composition.
Treating Dry Eye
Once we have confirmed the diagnosis, either through a vision exam or due to your reported symptoms, our optometry specialist can help you find a suitable solution. In some cases, prescribing hydrating eye drops for regular or as-needed use may be sufficient. However, if an underlying condition is causing the dry eye, we may refer you to a specialist. We might also prescribe medications to stimulate tear production and recommend lifestyle changes to alleviate your symptoms.
Contact Our Eye Doctors for Treatment
If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, our team at Family Eyecare of Glendale, serving Glendale, AZ, and the surrounding areas, is here to provide treatment. We will first diagnose the condition and determine its cause. If the cause cannot be addressed directly, such as in cases of age-related dry eye, we can offer eye care tips to manage the condition and reduce symptoms. Find relief for your dry eye symptoms by contacting our eye care specialists at (602) 843-2900.