Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can cause itching or swelling and make tasks like reading or driving difficult. At Des Plaines Eye Care Center in Des Plaines, IL, we provide eye exams to learn more about your condition and treatment to relieve any discomfort. Before visiting us, we invite you to keep reading to learn more about dry eye syndrome.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome can occur when you don't produce enough tears to keep your eye lubricated. The condition can also occur if the tears are not of high quality or evaporate quickly. It is important to seek treatment as soon as you start experiencing any symptoms, as delaying treatment can lead to an infection.
Symptoms
If you have dry eye syndrome, you may exhibit a variety of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include:
• Burning sensation in the eyes
• Redness and discharge
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision
• Gritty eyes
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Eye strain
Risk Factors
One primary reason for dry eye is age. As we get older, it can be more difficult to produce enough tears. It can also be a side effect of certain medications or a pre-existing condition. For example, if you take antidepressants, antihistamines, or certain blood pressure medications, you may be more likely to experience dry eye. Similarly, conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis can increase the chances of dry eye. In addition, living in highly polluted areas or spending excessive hours on digital screens can also cause the condition.
Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome
When you visit us, we will perform an eye exam to confirm if you have dry eye syndrome. Afterward, our optometrist can recommend the necessary treatment. We may suggest lifestyle changes, over-the-counter eye drops, or prescription medications. In severe cases, we might recommend surgical procedures.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye syndrome, our team at Des Plaines Eye Care Center in Des Plaines, IL, is happy to help. After an evaluation, we can develop a personalized treatment plan that can ease your symptoms and improve your vision. To learn more about our treatments or to schedule your appointment, contact us at (224) 236-2020 today. When you need an optometrist near me, we look forward to assisting you!