Dry Eyes Specialist

Dry Eyes

Do you suffer from eyes that burn, itch, and feel dry? People in Greensboro, North Carolina, who suffer with dry eyes can call on the expert team of eye care specialists at Hecker Eye Care Associates for evaluation and treatment of this condition. Make an appointment over the phone today.

Dry Eyes Q & A

What are dry eyes?

Dry eye syndrome is a chronic, inflammatory condition that develops when your natural tear film no longer provides enough moisture to keep your eyes sufficiently lubricated. An inadequate tear film leads to inflammation and discomfort.

What are the symptoms of dry eyes?

If your tear film is inadequate, you may experience some or all of the following uncomfortable symptoms:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Burning
  • Itching
  • Irritation
  • Excessive tearing
  • Blurry vision that comes and goes
  • Feeling of sand or grit in eyes

When these symptoms occur repeatedly, it can impair your overall vision and impact your quality of life.

What are the risk factors for dry eyes?

There are quite a few risk factors that lead to dry eyes:

  • Aging
  • Certain medications
  • Allergies
  • Hormonal changes
  • Environmental conditions
  • Diabetes
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Previous eye surgeries
  • Lacrimal gland injury

What are the treatment options for dry eyes?

The doctors at Hecker Eye Care Associates use a variety of methods to alleviate the frustrating pain and discomfort of dry eyes. At your appointment, your doctor will examine your eyes, evaluate the severity of your condition, and determine whether an underlying cause is contributing to your symptoms.

Most patients are easily treated with over-the-counter lubricating drops. If over-the-counter options don’t alleviate your symptoms, you might need a short course of topical steroids, or prescription drops and/or ointments.

For eyes with minimal inflammation and poor tear production, a punctal insert or plug can be placed which can alleviate symptoms. These can only be placed by your doctor, but is a simple in-office procedure.

What can I do on my own to help relieve the symptoms of dry eyes?

Just like people with allergies, you can avoid known irritants that make your dry eyes worse.

Here are some things you can try on your own:

  • Wear glasses when outdoors
  • Avoid smoke
  • Avoid excess heat
  • Avoid sitting in front of a fan/sleeping with a fan on
  • Take frequent breaks from computer and phone screens
  • Use a humidifier to replace moisture in the air

For swift and compassionate care for your dry eyes, call Hecker Eye Care Associates today.