U Education

Dry eyes are a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of these causes include environmental factors, eye diseases and conditions, medications, lifestyle habits, and age.

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Environmental Factors: Dry air caused by low humidity levels or spending too much time in air-conditioned places can cause dry eyes. Windy weather, exposure to cigarette smoke, smog or other pollutants can also increase the risk of developing dry eyes.

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Eye Diseases & Conditions: Various diseases and conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) or Sjögren’s Syndrome can result in dry eyes due to insufficient tear production.

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Medications: Certain oral medications, such as antihistamines, can affect tear production and lead to dry eyes. Topical eye drops that contain decongestants or steroids may be used in the short-term but can cause long-term problems with dry eyes if used too often.

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Lifestyle Habits: Staring at computer screens or mobile devices for extended periods of time without taking regular breaks can reduce tear production and cause dry eyes. Not blinking regularly enough can also contribute to dry eyes.

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Age: As people age, they produce fewer tears leading to increased risk of developing dry eyes. Women are more prone to developing this condition than men due to hormonal changes during menopause which affect tear production.

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It is important to understand the causes of dry eyes in order to properly address and manage this condition. Taking preventive measures such as avoiding smoky environments, using a humidifier if necessary, taking regular breaks away from computer screens or other digital devices, and wearing sunglasses when outdoors can help reduce the risk of developing dry eyes. Visiting an eye doctor regularly for checkups can help diagnose any underlying conditions related to dry eyes before they become more serious. By understanding the causes of dry eyes and taking appropriate measures, you can ensure that your eyes stay healthy and comfortable for years to come.

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Laser treatments are becoming increasingly popular for addressing the symptoms of dry eyes. These treatments can help reduce inflammation in the eye, provide relief from irritating symptoms such as itching and burning, and improve overall eye health. 

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Laser treatments can offer a safe and effective way to address the symptoms of dry eyes. Your UELC doctor may recommend a combination of treatments to best address your symptoms and underlying condition. In any case, it’s important to follow all recommended treatments for the best results.  With the right care, you can enjoy relief from dry eyes in no time at all.

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No matter what treatment you choose, there are also lifestyle changes that can help reduce the symptoms of dry eyes. Staying hydrated is one key step, as dehydration can worsen dry eye symptoms. Also make sure to wear sunglasses when outside to protect your eyes from wind and sun exposure. Avoid irritants like smoke or strong chemicals that may further aggravate dry eye discomfort. By following these simple steps and working with your doctor to find the right laser treatment, you can find relief from dry eyes in no time.

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At UELC, we offer dry eye clinic consultations to help diagnose and manage your chronic dry eye symptoms. Our experienced staff use a thorough examination process that involves looking at the front surface of your eyes, measuring tear production, assessing eyelid health, and evaluating your cornea and conjunctiva. This comprehensive approach helps us determine an accurate diagnosis so we can create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

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When examining patients with dry eye syndrome, our team looks for common signs such as redness, burning or stinging sensation in the eyes, excessive tearing or discharge from the eyes, foreign body sensations like sand in the eyes, blurred vision due to ocular surface inflammation or instability of the tear film. We also examine for conditions such as meibomian gland dysfunction, blepharitis, or abnormal corneal sensitivity.

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We offer many treatments to help manage the symptoms of chronic dry eye syndrome. These treatments range from lifestyle modifications and medications to specialized procedures like punctal plug insertions or IPL therapy. We will work with you to find the best treatment plan for your individual needs that helps improve your vision comfort and overall ocular health.

If you are experiencing any signs of dry eye syndrome, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a dry eye clinic consultation at UELC today! Our friendly staff are here to provide expert care and get you back on the path toward healthy vision.