If you are bothered by the irritating symptoms of dry eye, you’re not alone. In the United States, estimates put the number of people with dry eye syndrome at about five million! At Vaske Vision Care, our eye doctor is experienced in providing dry eye treatment to restore your comfortable, healthy vision, even during the long dry winters. Dr. Michael Vaske will perform a thorough eye exam in our Parker, CO office to diagnose dry eyes and recommend the best-personalized treatment.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye
While every individual experiences dry eye differently, the most typical signs include:
- Red or pink eyes
- Stinging or burning
- Feeling that sand is stuck in your eye
- Scratchy sensation
- Uncomfortable contact lenses
- The constant need to rub eyes or blink
- Watery eyes (dry eyes can sometimes trigger production of extra tears)
- Blurry vision
Although dry eye is not usually dangerous or sight-threatening, the symptoms can be highly disruptive to daily life. If you have any of the above symptoms, we invite you to book an appointment in our Parker, CO, eye care center to benefit from helpful dry eye treatment.
Types of Dry Eye Treatment
In order to determine the most suitable treatment for your condition, we will take your lifestyle and health into consideration. Dr. Vaske will then personalize a dry eye treatment plan that works for you.
Medicines for Dry Eye
- Eye lubricants – eye drops or ointments
- Artificial tear inserts, which release moisture gradually into your eyes
- Antibiotics to reduce the bacteria in your eyes that destroy healthy lipids in tears
- Anti-inflammatory drugs to stimulate the manufacture of natural tears
Punctal Plugs
For severe cases, our eye doctor may insert punctal plugs; this is a quick, in-office procedure. Punctal plugs are small silicone plugs that block tear drainage, thereby allowing more moisture to spread across the surface of your eyes.
Tips for Treating Dry Eye at Home
We advise all of our Parker, CO, patients with a dry eye to pay close attention to possible causes for their dry eyes. Once you are aware of the cause, you can avoid those situations in order to prevent many of the symptoms.
Some helpful tips:
- Artificial tears and other over-the-counter remedies may provide temporary relief; check with our optometrist about the best brands for your eyes
- Install an air filter in your home and/or office to remove airborne irritants
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to your environment
- Wear sunglasses (wraparounds are ideal) to block wind and ultraviolet rays
- Eye vitamins and fish oil supplements may help your eyes produce and maintain lubrication
- Drink enough - it is important to stay well hydrated
We stay up-to-date with all the latest dry eye treatments to soothe your irritated vision. For lasting relief, contact our eye care specialists to reserve an appointment.