Dry eye can be more than just uncomfortable. It can affect your daily life, cause inflammation and pain, and even lead to vision loss. For many people, dry eyes can make it difficult to perform everyday activities like reading, using a computer, or watching TV.
If you’re dealing with dry eyes, you’re probably looking for some relief, especially if eye drops are no longer working. Fortunately, there are effective dry eye treatments available that address the underlying causes. At our eye care centers in Mt. Pleasant, Carson City, Alma, State Street, St. Louis, Calumet, and Oscoda, we will help you find the best solutions for your needs. Keep reading to learn how to relieve your dry, itchy, and irritated eyes.
Why does dry eye happen?
Before we explore treatment options, it’s helpful to understand why dry eyes occur. Our eyes need a steady supply of tears to stay moist and healthy. These tears aren’t just water; they’re a complex mixture of water, oils, and mucus that work together to keep our eyes comfortable and our vision clear.
When there’s a problem with any part of this tear system, it can lead to dry eyes. Common causes include prolonged screen time, aging, hormonal changes, certain medications or medical conditions, and environmental factors like dry or windy conditions.
At-home remedies for dry eyes
There are several easy things you can do at home to help manage your dry eye symptoms:
- Take breaks from screens: Following the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds—can reduce eye strain and dryness.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your entire body, including your eyes, properly hydrated.
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air in your home or office can prevent your eyes from drying out.
- Blink more often: Make a conscious effort to blink regularly, especially when you’re staring at a screen.
Treatment for dry eye
If you’ve tried these tips and still struggle with dry eyes, it might be time to consider some advanced treatments. At our clinics, we offer several effective options:
- BlephEx treatment: This in-office procedure helps remove debris and bacteria from your eyelids and lashes, improving the health of your eyelids and reducing inflammation. It’s a gentle and painless way to help your eyes feel more comfortable and relieve discomfort.
- Eye drop therapy: We provide specialized eye drops that are more effective than over-the-counter options. These drops can help lubricate your eyes and provide longer-lasting relief.
- Amniotic membrane treatment: For more severe cases of dry eyes, this treatment acts like a bandage for your eyes. The amniotic membrane promotes healing and reduces inflammation, providing a protective barrier that helps restore the surface of your eye. This option is especially beneficial for those who need more intensive care to heal their eyes and relieve discomfort.
Find relief today
Don’t let dry eyes keep you from enjoying life. At The Optics Group clinics, we will help you find effective solutions to relieve your symptoms and keep your eyes healthy. We offer comprehensive eye exams to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and what treatment will work best for your specific case.
Schedule an appointment today to meet with our experts and find out how to manage or prevent your symptoms.
