Some Helpful Information About Dry Eye Syndrome

If you’ve noticed that your eyes have started to tear up more than usual – and especially without reason — you might be wondering what’s going on.
We’re sure you’ve heard about dry eye syndrome before, but excessive tears couldn’t possibly be a symptom of the condition, could they?

A Common Symptom of Dry Eye Syndrome is Excessive Tearing

We know it sounds counterintuitive to its name, but excessive wetness in the eyes (commonly called excessive tearing) is one of the first symptoms an optometrist in Monterey, CA will inquire about if they suspect that you’re suffering from keratitis sicca – an ocular condition more commonly known as dry eye syndrome.

Although there are any number of over-the-counter dry eye treatments available, it may not always be recommended to self-diagnosis and self-treat since the condition could be a sign of an underlying immune disease such as Sjogren’s syndrome which has one of the same hallmark symptoms as keratitis sicca – dry eyes.

The Exact Cause Is Unknown – But Treatment is Available

Unfortunately, the exact physiological cause for dry eye syndrome has not yet been established.

As mentioned, it could be rooted in an underlying cause such as Sjogren’s syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis, but it’s also associated with the natural aging process and certain medications such as antihistamine usage.

At Eye M.D. Monterey, we know that getting answers to health-related questions is important to every patient.

That’s why we are committed to spending time with each patient to provide them with the information they need to understand every aspect of the condition that’s concerning them – whether it’s dry eye syndrome, diabetic eye disease treatment, LASIK, or any of the other professional eye care services we provide.

Easy Diagnosis from an Optometrist in Monterey, CA

Apart from excessive tearing, some of the other symptoms that patients may notice in their eyes include itching and burning sensations, redness, temporary blurred vision (especially when reading or using a computer), and a feeling that something either gritty or foreign is trapped in the eye.

Whether you experience one or more of the above symptoms, the diagnosis of the condition will be the same.

One of the first things we’ll inquire about is your health history.

Some factors that may contribute to the condition include the use of certain types of medications, whether or not you wear contact lenses or have had recent LASIK surgery, and hormonal changes such as menopause in women.

We’ll also ask about the amount of time you spend using a computer or other electronic devices since these can also contribute to the condition.

If it’s determined that you’re at a high-risk based on the symptoms you’re experiencing and the information gathered from your health history, the next step is to perform a Schirmer test to scientifically measure the level of tears in a patient’s eyes.

At Eye M.D. Monterey, we use state-of-the-art testing equipment to evaluate and understand the underlying reasons for your dry eye symptoms. With that information, we’ll then be able to develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to your specific needs.

Dry Eye Treatment Near Monterey

Every treatment plan will be based on the underlying cause of your individual condition.

Although there is not a one-size-fits all treatment, the good news is that when you consistently adhere to your treatment plan, it is possible to be symptom-free for extended periods of time – sometimes up to one year!

Some recommendations that we may offer include making simple changes in your work or home environment, the use of prescription or over-the-counter artificial tears or other medications that increase tear production eye, or dry eye LipiFlow treatment if it’s been determined that your condition is as a result of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction – a blockage of your eyelid glands.

What patients love the most about these treatment options is their convenience. Making changes in your home or work environment are simple to make. Purchasing over-the-counter artificial tears or getting a prescription filled is also easy. And LipiFlow treatment in Monterrey can be completed in one appointment that typically takes less than 15 minutes.

Now that you know how easy treatment of dry eye syndrome is, don’t you think it’s time to get a full diagnosis to rule out other possible underlying reasons for the condition?