Dry can cause itching or swelling and make everyday tasks like reading or driving difficult. At Westside Optical in Grand Rapids, MI, we provide various treatments to alleviate any uncomfortable symptoms you may be experiencing and help you see clearly. Before visiting us, continue reading to learn more about dry eye!
Understanding Dry Eye
Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, it is important to seek treatment. When treatment is delayed, it can lead to infections or corneal scarring.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
This condition can cause multiple symptoms, such as the following:
• Gritty or scratchy feeling in your eyes
• Eye redness
• Burning sensation
• Increased light sensitivity
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Blurry vision
Treatment for Dry Eye
While there is no cure for dry eye, various treatments are available. Before providing treatment, our optometrist will perform an eye exam to determine what is causing your symptoms. Afterward, will create a care plan for your specific needs. Your care plan may include the following:
Eye Drops, Ointments, or Creams
These products may be effective for mild or moderate cases. Eye drops can help keep your eyes moist during the day, while ointments or creams can help your eyes stay hydrated while you’re asleep. If you try over-the-counter eye drops and they are not effective, our eye doctor can prescribe eye drops to provide relief.
Medication Changes
Do you take any medications that may be causing dry eyes? If so, we may recommend changing to a different medication to help ease your symptoms.
Punctal Plugs
These plugs are placed in your tear ducts to prevent tears from draining too fast and keep your eyes lubricated. Additionally, tear duct plugs can be temporary or permanent, depending on your condition and the severity of your symptoms.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today!
If you’re experiencing discomfort due to dry eye, our team at Westside Optical in Grand Rapids, MI, can help. To learn more about our treatments or to schedule your appointment, call us at (616) 458-7978 today. When you need an optometrist near me, we look forward to assisting you!
