Dry Eyes
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Michigan Eye and Contact Lens
Optometry & Pediatric Optometry located in Novi, MI
If you consistently feel like something is in your eye, or if your eyes are frequently dry and irritated, you may have dry eye syndrome. Dr. Alexandra Williamson offers several effective eye care treatments to increase tear production and relieve the symptoms of dry eye at Michigan Eye and Contact Lens in Novi, Michigan. Learn more about how to get relief from itchy, irritated eyes by scheduling an appointment online or by calling the office. Michigan Eye and Contact Lens services patients in Walled Lake, West Bloomfield, Commerce, Milford, South Lyon, Northville, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Plymouth, Birmingham, Livonia, Brighton, Bingham Farms, Bloomfield Township, White Lake, and Highland, MI.
Dry Eyes Q & A
What is dry eye?
Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears to lubricate your eyes. It may also result when the tears you produce aren’t sufficient in providing necessary nutrients to your eyes.
Tears are essential for maintaining good eye health. They also moisturize the front of your eye to provide you with clear vision.
Chronic dry eye increases your risk for eye infections and causes several uncomfortable symptoms.
What are the symptoms of dry eye?
When you have dry eye syndrome, you may frequently feel like something is in your eye. Other common dry eye symptoms include:
- Itching
- Burning
- Irritation
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Excessive watering
What causes dry eye?
Many things in our day to day life can cause dry eye in an otherwise healthy person, including prolonged staring, screen time and driving. You may also experience dry eye symptoms as you age and your tear production decreases. Other causes of dry eye include:
- Hormonal changes
- Certain medications
- Environmental factors
- Underlying medical conditions
If you use a computer for extended periods, you may not blink your eyes frequently or adequately enough, resulting in dry eye. Dry eye is also a common side effect of eye surgeries, including LASIK®.
How is dry eye diagnosed?
Dr. Williamson performs a thorough evaluation of your eye health to determine the cause of dry eye.
During your exam, Dr. Williamson may administer a variety of tests to diagnose dry eye and to help formulate a plan for dry eye management. A common test used involves using eye drops that temporarily numb your eyes, then using a special paper strip that determines how much moisture is present in your eyes.
What treatments are available for dry eye?
Dr. Williamson performs a thorough evaluation of your eye health to determine the cause of dry eye. She conducts a test to evaluate the amount of moisture your eye produces.
Treatment of dry eye is sophisticated and tailored per patient condition. Options range from pharmaceuticals to lid hygiene regimens, artificial tears, medicated eye drops or ointments, and protective contact lenses.
A part of dry eye prevention involves proper eye hygiene, including regularly cleaning your eyelids and lashes to remove debris, dead skin, and allergens.
Schedule a consultation online or by phone to learn more about dry eye treatments.
