Dry eye can be anything from a temporary irritation to a chronic eye health problem that affects a person’s vision and quality of life. At Family Eye Care of Raleigh, our optometrist team works carefully with our patients to determine the underlying causes and best course of treatment to meet the unique needs of each individual suffering from dry eye.

Causes Of Dry Eye

In general, the root cause of dry eye is inadequate or impaired tear production. Healthy eyes are moist and hydrated, however certain things can disrupt your body’s ability to produce tears, such as:

  • Medication side effects
  • The presence of other underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes
  • Advancing age
  • Tear duct/gland damage
  • Environment (e.g., chemicals, smoke, air conditioning, changes in the weather)

Symptoms Of Dry Eye

As the name would imply, the main symptoms of dry eye are itchy, red, dry eyes. Sometimes, a person with dry eye may experience swelling around the eye and other uncomfortable sensations including the feeling of burning, grittiness, or something in the eye. Strangely enough, dry eye can be associated with watery or mucus-like fluid around the eyes (to compensate for a lack of tears), which can often form into a crusty residue as you sleep. Addition symptoms may include:

  • Blurry vision
  • Eye fatigue
  • Light sensitivity
  • Impaired night vision

Dry Eye Treatment From Our Raleigh Eye Doctor

Do you have dry eye? Don’t hesitate to visit our Raleigh eye doctor, Dr. Jeffrey Handschumacher. Along with the rest of his team, Dr. Handschumacher will provide you with a thorough physical examination, health history evaluation, and individualized treatment plan to help you find real and lasting relief–fast. One of our potential treatments for dry eye include medicated eye drops, including Xiidra™, the first FDA-approved prescription eye drop of its kind that relieves dry eye signs and symptoms. Other dry eye treatment options include oral medications, eye massage, and patient education on proper hygiene or changes to corrective eyewear to further reduce symptoms.

Is Your Dry Eye Holding You Back? Call Today To Learn How Our Raleigh Optometrist Team Can Help

Led by optometrist Dr. Jeffrey Handschumacher, Family Eye Care Center proudly provides high quality vision care services to the people of Raleigh, and surrounding communities. If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms or have any other concerns about your vision and eye health, call our Raleigh team at 919-981-4444 to schedule your appointment. Be sure to ask about our new client specials!