When Should You See a Doctor About Your Dry Eyes?
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West County Ophthalmology understands the challenges faced by individuals suffering from dry eye syndrome. Dry eye occurs when your tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes, either due to insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. This can lead to inflammation and damage to the eye's surface, significantly impacting comfort and vision. While when you see a doctor can vary, we always suggest our patients come into our Chesterfield, MO office for an eye exam if their dry eyes are starting to impact their daily lives. Knowing when to see a doctor about dry eye is crucial for managing this condition effectively and maintaining good eye health. Read on to learn more.
What are the common symptoms of dry eye syndrome?
If you're experiencing dry eye syndrome, you may notice several key symptoms that signal it's time to seek professional help. Those could include:
- Persistent eye dryness
- A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
- Redness and irritation
- Blurred vision
- Increased sensitivity to light
If you recognize any of these symptoms, it may be time to seek out necessary dry eye treatment in Chesterfield, MO.
What is the cause of dry eyes?
The cause of dry eyes varies, and understanding these causes can help determine the best possible course of action. Factors include hormonal changes such as those occurring during menopause, side effects from medications, environmental conditions like dry or windy climates, excessive screen time without adequate breaks, and underlying conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.
How does West County Ophthalmology treat dry eye?
At our office, we offer a range of treatments for dry eye syndrome. Depending on the underlying cause of your dry eyes, our treatments might involve prescription eye drops to increase tear production, minor procedures to block the tear ducts to retain more moisture in the eye, or advice on lifestyle changes that can help alleviate your symptoms. Treatment will be personalized based on your specific needs.
What preventive measures can help manage dry eye?
There are several proactive steps you can take to minimize the discomfort of dry eye syndrome, such as:
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to your indoor environment
- Practice the 20-20-20 rule when using screens: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds
- Wear sunglasses to protect against wind and UV rays when outdoors
- Stay hydrated
When should you see a doctor about dry eye?
If you experience persistent symptoms of dry eye that affect your daily life, it's time to see a doctor. Scheduling an appointment at West County Ophthalmology as soon as your daily activities or comfort are compromised is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of further eye health issues. It's particularly important to seek medical attention if you notice a significant decrease in your ability to see clearly or if dry eye symptoms are accompanied by severe pain or inflammation. Additionally, if over-the-counter eye drops and changes in your environment or habits do not alleviate your symptoms, a professional evaluation is needed. Our eye specialists can provide advanced treatments and personalized care strategies that are not available through self-care alone.
Don't let dry eyes affect your day
If dry eye syndrome is affecting your life, don't hesitate to contact us at West County Ophthalmology in Chesterfield, MO. We're here to provide comprehensive care and effective solutions tailored to your specific needs. Let us help you achieve and maintain optimal eye health with the best dry eye treatment available.