Dry Eye Syndrome in Boca Raton, FL

Most individuals will occasionally deal with dry, irritated eyes, but chronic or repeated symptoms could be dry eye syndrome. This common condition is the result of either a lack of tears or unbalanced tear components, which in turn could be caused by medical conditions, various medications, or lifestyle factors. Tears are fundamental to the overall health of the eyes, and when they are not present, it can lead to extreme discomfort and even blurry eyesight. The experienced ophthalmologists at Clewner & Kelly Eye Center offer a number of treatments for patients suffering from dry eye syndrome. Contact our Boca Raton, FL practice to schedule a consultation, and explore your options.

There are several factors that could cause dry eyes. The primary factor, however, is simply aging. As we age, tear production decreases; this leads to dry tear ducts. Other factors that could cause dry eyes include:

• A dry environment
• Eye allergies
• Contacts
• Hormonal changes (such as those experienced during pregnancy or after menopause)
• Medications (tranquilizers, birth control, heart medications)
• Illness
• Bad blinking habits
• Previous laser eye surgery
• Looking at the computer for long periods of time
• Certain conditions (such as diabetes or Sjogren's syndrome)

Symptoms of dry eye syndrome can include:

• Blurry or hazy vision
• Stinging and burning
• Eye redness
• Light sensitivity
• The feeling of having something in your eye
• Overly watery eyes as a response to dryness
• Mucus around the eye that appears stringy

If you are experiencing these symptoms on a chronic basis, then it is important to seek help from a dry eye specialist in Boca Raton, FL.

Diagnosis of dry eye syndrome occurs during an eye exam. Along with going over your symptoms, we'll review your medical history and perform a variety of tests, such as measuring tear production, examing your eyelids, and more. If it's decided you do have dry eye syndrome, we wil create treatment plan based on your needs.

Your best treatment for dry eye syndrome will depend on the underlying reason behind your dry eyes. Following an in-depth exam and consultation, our team can decide which treatment best suits your specific needs. Many patients with minor cases of dry eye can reduce their symptoms with prescription or nonprescription artificial tears. If your condition is more complicated, such as you have blocked tear ducts, there are several procedures available for addressing the different underlying causes of dry eye. If your dry eye is caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), where the glands in the eyelids have become obstructed, our office offers LipiFlow® to unblock meibomian glands and increase the production of lubrication oils for increased tears.

LipiFlow is an innovative FDA-cleared device designed to deliver therapeutic energies to the meibomian glands without interfering with the eye's fragile structures. To begin your procedure, our LipiFlow specialists will numb your eyes with anesthetic eye drops and place the LipiFlow activators over your eyes. The activators will use a combination of heat and gentle pressure to safely eliminate gland obstructions. The procedure takes a total of 12 minutes, and when the activators are removed, you will be able to return to your regular routine. Following the procedure, normal gland function recovers, and you can expect maximum improvement in eye lubrication over a period of 6 – 8 weeks.

Does drinking more water help alleviate dry eyes?
Drinking enough water is imperative for your overall health; however, it can help with your eye health as well. Drinking enough water throughout the day can help keep your eyes moist.

Is there a cure for dry eye syndrome?
While there is not a known cure for dry eye syndrome, several methods of treatment to alleviate symptoms and preserve ocular health have proven effective. Depending on the cause of your dry eye syndrome, you may be able to benefit from advanced treatments like LipiFlow in Boca Raton, FL.

Can dry eye syndrome cause vision loss?
Dry eye syndrome can lead to complications such as eye infections, which may damage your delicate eye structures. In rare cases, when left untreated, dry eye syndrome can lead to vision loss. It is important that you consult an eye specialist in Boca Raton, FL when you notice symptoms so that your vision and quality of life can be preserved.

Having dry eye syndrome is more than just painful. It can also result in reduced vision if left untreated. If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms and have been unable to get relief from over-the-counter solutions, plan a dry eye exam at our Boca Raton, FL facility. Our wonderful team at Clewner & Kelly Eye Center can diagnose and reverse your dry eye syndrome.