Dry Eye in Columbia

Eye irritation is a common complaint of patients at Dr. Dorothy Park & Associates' office. As an optometry provider, we recognize that having dry eye is more than just uncomfortable. That's why we take the time to help our patients find a solution that works for them to prevent the discomfort and other complications.

Definition of Dry Eyes 

Dry eye is a condition that occurs when one or both of the eyes are dry as a result of inadequate or poor quality tears. When they're the incorrect consistency, they tend to evaporate too quickly for them to hydrate the eye. Some people experience symptoms such as inflammation, pain, redness or a stinging or burning sensation in the eye. Many people have a sandy or gritty feeling. They feel as though something is in the eye. Some people go through stages where they have an overabundance of tears while other times they have dry eyes. Those who have dry eye feel as though they have something in their eyes. It's possible for the person to have a stringy discharge coming from the eye. People with dry eye might have eye fatigue. It's possible for dry eye to cause symptoms that interfere with life such as blurred vision and an inability to cry. Dry eye may make wearing contacts uncomfortable. It may even interfere with reading or working on the computer.

Causes and Risk Factors of Dry Eye 

The elderly are more at risk for dry eye than other age groups. It's more common in women than men with more than three million women suffering from it as opposed to 1.5 million men. It becomes more of a problem for women during menopause due to hormonal changes. Those who have dry eye may have developed as a result of hormonal changes, a disease of the glands in the eyelids, skin disease or medications. Immune disorders may lead to dry eye and so may allergies and thyroid disease. Those who have undergone LASIK eye surgery are more at risk for developing dry eye symptoms.

Dry Eye Complications

Patients should seek eye care assistance for dry eye and not try to deal with the discomfort. When dry eye is left untreated, the condition will worsen. The pain may increase, and it may even lead to scarring on the cornea. Dry eye can even lead to vision loss. 

Treatment for Dry Eye by an Optometrist in Columbia

An optometrist in Columbia treats a variety of conditions such as dry eye. The eye doctor may recommend eye drops or medication changes. The doctor may also recommend medications to increase tear production. Patients might also get tears derived from their own blood. The eye doctor may close the tear ducts or open the oil glands. 

Contact Us

To learn more about dry eye treatment or to schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Dorothy Park & Associates in Columbia SC at 803-232-7784.