Tears play a crucial role in maintaining the health and comfort of your eyes. They not only lubricate and nourish the eyes but also help wash away debris and protect against infections. When the delicate balance of tear production and quality is disrupted, dry eye can develop.
 

What is Dry Eye and What Causes it?

Dry eye is a common condition that arises when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. This lack of adequate moisture can cause discomfort and irritation, which may significantly affect your day-to-day life.
 

Several factors can contribute to the development of dry eye. Age is a major factor, as tear production naturally decreases as you grow older. Hormonal changes, particularly in women undergoing pregnancy or menopause, can also increase susceptibility to dry eye. Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants, may further reduce tear production, exacerbating the condition.
 

Medical conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders may also cause dry eye. Another growing cause of dry eye is digital eye strain, which occurs when frequent use of computers, smartphones, and other digital devices leads to reduced blinking, further increasing tear evaporation. Recognizing these contributing factors is key to identifying and managing dry eye effectively.
 

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

If you are experiencing dry eye, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:
 

·        Burning, stinging, or itching sensation in the eyes

·        Redness or irritation

·        Blurred vision

·        Sensitivity to light

·        Feeling like there is something in your eye

·        Watery eyes

·        Difficulty wearing contact lenses
 

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact your daily life and activities.
 

How Sonie Family Eyecare Can Help

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with dry eye, it's important to seek professional help. At Sonie Family Eyecare, Dr. Omo we will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to assess the health and function of your tear production and tear film. By thoroughly evaluating your individual condition, Dr. Omo can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your dry eye needs. Our approach to dry eye management is multifaceted and may include one or more of the following interventions:
 

•        Prescription eye drops: For more severe cases, we may prescribe medicated eye drops to reduce inflammation, increase tear production, or improve tear film quality.

•        Lid hygiene and warm compresses: Proper eyelid and facial cleansing, along with the application of warm compresses, can help improve the function of the meibomian glands and reduce oil-related dry eye.

•        Nutritional supplements: Certain dietary supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, can help support the overall health of your tear film.

•        Punctal plugs: In some cases, we may recommend the use of small, removable devices called punctal plugs to help retain your natural tears.

•        Lifestyle modifications: We may provide guidance on adjusting your environment, reducing digital eye strain, and implementing other lifestyle changes to better manage your dry eye symptoms.
 

At Sonie Family Eyecare, we understand that no two cases of dry eye are exactly alike. We take the time to thoroughly evaluate your individual needs and tailor our treatment approach accordingly. Our goal is to provide you with the most effective and personalized care to help you achieve lasting relief from your dry eye symptoms.
 

Trust Sonie Family Eyecare for Your Dry Eye Needs

Schedule an appointment with Sonie Family Eyecare to get the specialized care and treatment you deserve. We are committed to working with you to develop an effective, customized plan to manage your dry eye and restore the comfort and clarity of your vision.
 

If you are struggling with the discomfort and inconvenience of dry eye, contact Sonie Family Eyecare at our office in Mansfield, Texas, by calling (817) 477-6684 to book an appointment today.