Seeing Clearly: Understanding and Treating Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can be more than mild irritation—they can affect your daily life, from working at your computer to enjoying outdoor activities. 

At Wellington Vision Care, we understand how frustrating and uncomfortable dry eyes can be, and we're dedicated to helping you find lasting relief. 

Let's walk you through what causes dry eyes, how to recognize the signs, and the treatment options available to help you see and feel your best.

What Causes Dry Eyes?

‍Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears or evaporate too quickly due to an imbalance. Tears are essential for keeping the eyes lubricated, providing nutrients, and protecting the eyes' surface from irritants.

There are several common causes of dry eyes:

1. Environmental Factors: Windy or dry climates, smoke, and air conditioning can increase tear evaporation.
2. Screen Time: Spending long hours staring at screens without blinking enough can significantly reduce natural tear production.
3. Aging: Tear production naturally decreases as we age, particularly for women undergoing hormonal changes.
4. Medications: Certain antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can reduce tear production.
5. Underlying Health Conditions: Autoimmune diseases, such as Sjögren's syndrome, can affect tear glands and cause chronic dry eye symptoms

By identifying the root cause of dry eye symptoms, we can create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

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Recognizing the Signs of Dry Eyes

Dry eye symptoms often vary from person to person, but some of the most common signs include:

• A gritty or sandy sensation in the eyes
• Redness and irritation
• Blurred vision, especially after prolonged use of screens
• Sensitivity to light
• Burning or stinging sensations
• Watery eyes, which may seem surprising but can occur when the eyes try to compensate for dryness

If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking professional care is essential. Untreated, dry eyes can lead to inflammation and potential damage to the eye's surface.

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Our Approach to Dry Eye Diagnosis

At Wellington Vision Care, we begin with a comprehensive eye examination to assess your tear film quality, eyelid health, and any underlying conditions contributing to your dry eyes. 

We may use diagnostic tools to measure your tear production, evaporation rate, and potential blockages in the meibomian glands (which secrete essential oils to prevent tear evaporation).

Our goal is to fully understand your ocular health so we can tailor our recommendations to provide maximum relief.

Treatment Options for Dry Eyes

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for dry eyes, but the good news is that there are many effective ways to manage and treat the condition. Here are some of the treatments we may recommend:

1. Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief by supplementing your natural tears. We can guide you toward preservative-free options that are gentle on your eyes.
2. Prescription Eye Drops: For more persistent cases, we may prescribe medicated drops that help increase tear production or reduce inflammation.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments: Simple changes, such as taking regular breaks during screen time, using a humidifier to increase moisture in your environment, and wearing wraparound sunglasses outdoors, can make a big difference.
4. Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene: Massaging your eyelids with a warm compress can help unclog meibomian glands and improve tear quality.
5. Punctal Plugs: In some cases, we may recommend punctal plugs—tiny, biocompatible devices inserted into the tear ducts to help retain natural tears on the eye's surface for longer.
6. Advanced Treatments: We also offer more advanced solutions, such as light therapy and eyelid treatments designed to improve the function of the oil glands.

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Preventing Future Discomfort

Prevention is just as important as treatment. We'll work with you to develop long-term habits that protect your eye health and keep discomfort at bay. Here are some proactive tips:

• Blink More Often: Make a conscious effort to blink regularly, especially during screen time.
• Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help maintain your body's natural moisture levels.
• Healthy Diet: Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids from foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds can improve tear production.

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Personalized Care You Can Trust

At Wellington Vision Care, we're committed to making your vision and comfort our top priority. We understand that dry eyes can impact every aspect of your life, and we're here to help you regain your confidence and quality of life. 

From diagnosing the cause of your dry eyes to providing effective treatments and preventative care, we're with you every step of the way.

We invite you to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable eyes. Whether you need a new treatment plan or have questions about your eye health, we support you.

Let's work together to help you see the world clearly and comfortably—because you deserve to live without the discomfort of dry eyes. Contact us today to get started.