Dry Eye Relief: Treating the Symptoms

Dry eye is a common and often chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leaving your eyes feeling dry, irritated, and uncomfortable. At Plaza Mexico Optometry, we understand how uncomfortable and disruptive dry eyes can be to your daily life. Whether you're dealing with mild irritation or more severe symptoms, Dr. Alina Ho can provide effective solutions tailored to your specific needs.

What is Dry Eye and How Does it Affect Your Eyes?

Dry eye is a complex condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including environmental, age-related, and medical conditions. At its core, dry eye is the result of an imbalance in the tear film that covers and protects your eyes.

The tear film is composed of three essential layers: an oily outer layer, a middle aqueous layer, and an inner mucous layer. When this delicate balance is disrupted, it can lead to the symptoms of dry eye, such as:

• Persistent feelings of dryness, irritation, or discomfort in the eyes

• Redness or inflammation

• Sensitivity to light, wind, or smoke

• Blurred vision or difficulty focusing

• Increased eye fatigue, especially during prolonged visual tasks

• Stringy or filmy mucus in or around the eyes

• Frequent need to blink or use eye drops for relief

These symptoms can have a significant impact on your quality of life, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks and enjoy your favorite activities.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

One of the leading causes of dry eye is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), a condition in which the oil-producing glands in your eyelids become blocked or dysfunctional. These glands are responsible for producing the oily layer of the tear film, which helps to prevent the aqueous layer from evaporating too quickly.
 

When the Meibomian glands are not functioning properly, the tear film becomes unstable, and the eyes are unable to maintain adequate lubrication. This can lead to the development of dry eye symptoms, as well as an increased risk of eye infections and other complications.

Other common causes of dry eye include:

• Aging: As we get older, our tear production naturally decreases, and the Meibomian glands become less effective.

• Environmental factors: Exposure to dry, windy, or low-humidity environments, as well as prolonged use of digital devices, can contribute to dry eye.

• Medical conditions: Certain autoimmune disorders, such as Sjögren's syndrome, can disrupt the tear production process.

• Medications: Some common medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can also lead to dry eye.

Understanding the underlying causes of your dry eye is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan that addresses the root of the problem.

The Importance of a Proper Diagnosis for Personalized Treatment

Effective treatment for dry eye begins with a comprehensive eye examination and a proper diagnosis. Our optometrist will use a variety of diagnostic tools and techniques to evaluate the health of your eyes.

Based on the results of these tests, Dr. Alina Ho can develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the specific factors contributing to your dry eye. Eye drops or ointments may be prescribed to increase natural tear production and address discomfort. Additionally, oral medications, such as anti-inflammatory drugs or supplements, can be recommended to target the underlying causes of dry eye, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve eye health.

In addition to medications, we also offer specialized treatments for more advanced cases of dry eye. Punctal plugs are a common solution used to minimize tear drainage, allowing the eyes to retain moisture for longer periods. For those with more severe dryness, scleral contact lenses are an effective option. These lenses create a fluid-filled space between the lens and the surface of the eye, providing constant lubrication and significantly improving comfort for patients dealing with chronic dry eye.

The specific treatment plan recommended for you will depend on the severity of your dry eye, the underlying causes, and your individual needs and preferences. Dr. Ho will work closely with you to find the most effective solution to help you achieve lasting relief.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Plaza Mexico Optometry Today

Dry eye is a complex and often chronic condition, but with the right treatment approach, you can take control of your symptoms and regain the comfort and clarity of vision you deserve. By understanding the causes of your dry eye, seeking a proper diagnosis, and working closely with our optometrist, you can find the personalized solutions that will help you manage your condition and enjoy a higher quality of life.

If you're experiencing the symptoms of dry eye, schedule a consultation with Dr. Alina Ho at Plaza Mexico Optometry today. Contact our office in Lynwood, California, by calling (310) 844-7961 to book an appointment and take the first step towards lasting relief.