Dry eye syndrome may lead to itching, burning sensations, and blurry vision, making everyday tasks like reading or driving more difficult. At Bay Optical in Glens Falls and Saratoga, NY, we provide eye exams to better understand your condition and offer treatments to alleviate any uncomfortable symptoms. Before visiting us, continue reading to learn more about dry eye!
Understanding Dry Eye
Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears to stay lubricated. As a result, you may experience stinging, redness, blurry vision, or sensitivity to light. It’s important to seek treatment as soon as you notice these symptoms, as delaying care can increase the risk of infections or corneal scarring.
Diagnosis
To diagnose dry eye, our optometrist will discuss your symptoms with you and conduct a thorough eye exam to assess your tear volume. One common test involves placing a small paper strip under your eyelid for several minutes to measure how much tear fluid is produced. This information, along with other tests that evaluate tear quality, helps determine the severity and underlying causes of your dry eyes. Based on the findings, we will recommend appropriate treatments that provide lasting relief.
Dry Eye Treatment
There are various treatments available for dry eye syndrome. Some methods our eye doctor may suggest include:
• Self-Care: Patients often achieve relief through self-care and behavioral changes. Non-prescription artificial tears, regular eye washing, and avoiding certain environmental factors can help those with milder forms of dry eyes. Additional steps may be needed when self-care treatments do not adequately reduce your symptoms.
• Medications: Many patients benefit from prescription eye drops, sprays, and oral medications. Additionally, slow-dissolving gels placed under the eyelids can provide effective lubrication for the eyes.
• Contact Lenses: Dry eye syndrome is one primary reason some people cannot wear contact lenses, though scleral lenses can be helpful. Unlike traditional contact lenses that rest on the cornea, scleral lenses extend over the sclera. Their unique shape creates a reservoir that traps and retains moisture, providing comfort and hydration.
Contact Us for an Appointment Today
If you are seeking dry eye treatment, our team at Bay Optical in Glens Falls and Saratoga, NY, is happy to help. After an eye exam, we will develop a personalized care plan for your unique needs. To learn more about our treatments and to schedule your appointment, call our Glen Falls office at (518) 792-4140 or our Saratoga location at (518) 587-2020 . When you need an optometrist near you, we are ready to assist!