If you’re one of the millions of Americans bothered by dry eyes, there is hope. At Whitlow Family Vision Centers in Glasgow and Edmonton, Kentucky, Dr. Robert N. Whitlow and Dr. Cheryl G. Whitlow are experienced in the diagnosis of dry eye syndrome. They provide innovative treatment options to relieve your eye pain and irritation, ensuring good ocular health. Schedule a consultation online or by phone to learn more about treating dry eyes.
Dry Eyes Q & A
What causes dry eyes?
Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs when you don’t produce enough tears to keep your eyes adequately lubricated. You may also develop dry eyes when the tears you do produce aren’t of sufficient quality to nourish your eyes.
When your eyes are healthy, tears continuously lubricate your cornea each time you blink. Tears protect your eyes from environmental irritants and nourish cells with necessary nutrients and proteins. When tears can't do their job, it complicates the health of your eye.
Factors that can influence your tear production include:
- Age
- Allergies
- Hormonal changes
- Insufficient blinking
- Autoimmune disorders
Taking certain medications, including antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants, can also increase your risk of developing dry eye syndrome.
What are the symptoms of dry eyes?
Dry eye syndrome can give you the persistent sensation that something is in your eye. Other symptoms may include:
- Pain
- Irritation
- Redness
- Eye discharge
- Persistent stinging or burning
You may also feel heaviness in your eyelids and have episodes of blurred vision. Having dry eye syndrome can also make it difficult for you to feel comfortable wearing contact lenses.
How are dry eyes treated?
Dr. Whitlow can perform a test to measure your tear production ability and the quality of tears.
To treat mild dry eye symptoms, Dr. Whitlow may suggest using over-the-counter tear replacement eye drops. For moderate dry eye conditions, prescription drops may be necessary to reduce eye inflammation and irritation. Prescription eye drops can also increase your natural tear production.
Dr. Whitlow may also recommend lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking and limiting electronic screen time. To protect your eyes from environmental irritants, Dr. Whitlow may suggest protective sunglasses that features side shields to block dry air, wind, and dust.
For chronic dry eye syndrome, Dr. Whitlow may recommend surgery to prevent tears from draining back into your eyes. Following this procedure, Dr. Whitlow will monitor your eye health and quality of tear production to prevent recurring dry eye symptoms.
To get relief from dry eye irritation, schedule a consultation online or by calling the office.