Dealing with Dry Eyes: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort, irritation, and vision problems. If left untreated, dry eyes can significantly impact your quality of life. At Uptown Eyecare, we’re dedicated to helping you find relief with state-of-the-art solutions.

What Are Common Dry Eye Symptoms?

Dry eye symptoms can vary from person to person, but common signs include:

•          Persistent dryness or grittiness in the eyes

•          Redness or inflammation

•          Sensitivity to light (photophobia)

•          Blurred vision

•          A burning or stinging sensation

•          Watery eyes

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult an eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What Causes Dry Eyes?

Several factors can contribute to dry eye syndrome, including:

•          Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age, making dry eyes more common in older adults.
 

•          Environmental Factors: Wind, smoke, air conditioning, and prolonged screen time can exacerbate symptoms.
 

•          Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): A common condition where the glands in your eyelids fail to secrete enough oil, leading to faster tear evaporation.
 

•          Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can contribute to dry eyes.
 

•          Contact Lens Use: Prolonged wear can reduce tear film stability.
 

•          Medications: Certain drugs, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can decrease tear production.

Dry Eye Treatment

At Uptown Eyecare, we offer personalized solutions tailored to your unique needs. One of the most innovative treatments available is OptiLight IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), a non-invasive and highly effective therapy for managing dry eyes caused by MGD.

OptiLight IPL uses gentle pulses of light to target inflammation around the eyes and improve the function of the meibomian glands. By reducing inflammation and restoring the natural oil flow in your tears, OptiLight IPL addresses the root cause of many dry eye cases. Patients often notice a significant improvement in comfort and a reduction in symptoms after just a few sessions.

In addition to OptiLight IPL, we provide a range of treatments to alleviate dry eyes, including:

•          Artificial tears or prescription eye drops to enhance tear production

•          Warm compresses to unclog meibomian glands

•          Punctal plugs to retain moisture in the eyes

•          Nutritional supplements like omega-3 fatty acids to support tear production

Find Dry Eye Relief at Uptown Eyecare

Dry eyes can significantly impact your daily life, but with the right care and advanced treatments like OptiLight IPL, relief is within reach. We’re here to help you address the root causes of your symptoms and restore your eye comfort and health.

If dry eyes are affecting your life, schedule a consultation with Uptown Eyecare to explore your options. Contact our offices in Orlando, Florida, by calling our Hunter's Creek office at (407) 855-6132, or our Pixon Lake Nona location at (407) 378-2585 to book an appointment today.