Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome refers to a breakdown in the quantity or quality of tears to moisten, cleanse and protect the eyes. This is significant because, with each blink, tears protect the surface of the eye, washing away dust and microorganisms. When this protective coating dries up, the eyes may feel “gritty” or burn and can be more sensitive to light. In extreme cases, vision can be blurred.

Our office utilizes an advanced technology called the OCULUS Keratograph® 5M. By more accurately diagnosing the Dry Eye Syndrome and documenting the findings, your eye doctor can plan a better treatment, if necessary.

If you suspect that you have dry eye, see your eye doctor. Proper care will not only increase your comfort – it will protect your eyes. Your eye care provider can perform a series of tests to determine if you have dry eyes.

• Aging: As we age, tear production decreases. Men and women of any age can be affected. However, after menopause and during pregnancy, women are especially susceptible.
• Contact Lenses: Wearing contact lenses often increases tear evaporation. This can result in irritation, increased protein deposits, infection, and pain. Dry eye has been shown to be the leading cause of contact lens discomfort.
• Medications: A variety of common medications reduce tear secretion. These include decongestants, antihistamines, diuretics, beta-blockers, sleeping pills, antidepressants, pain relievers, and alcohol.
• Environment: Occasional or continual exposure to various environments can reduce eye lubrication. These include sunny, dry or windy conditions; areas with heaters, dehumidifiers, fans or air conditioners; work settings (i.e.; areas with chemicals or hair dryers), high altitudes, smoke or air pollution and sand, dust or airborne pollen.
• Auto Immune Disease: Diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Rosacea, Lupus and Sjogren’s syndrome can cause Dry Eye.

If you experience any of the symptoms below, you may have Dry Eye!

• Dry Sensation
• Scratchy, Gritty Feeling
• Burning/Stinging
• Itching
• Excess Tearing (watery eyes)
• Mucous Discharge
• Irritation from Wind or Smoke
• Redness
• Tired Eyes
• Light Sensitivity
• Contact Lens Discomfort
• Contact Lens Solution Sensitivity
• Soreness
• Lid Infections / Sties
• Sensitivity to Artificial Tears
• Eyelids Stuck Together at Awakening

1. Lid treatments such as punctual plugs and lid scrapings
2. Artificial tears
3. Warm compresses
4. Ocular Supplements
5. Prescription Medications

Envision Eye Care has the experience and equipment necessary to diagnose and often treat the eye diseases detailed above, as well as many other eye diseases, at our office in Pittsburgh. For more information please schedule an appointment with your optometrist, and we’ll be in touch with you shortly.