What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a common condition that happens when your eyes don’t make enough tears or when the tears you do produce aren’t the right quality to keep your eyes properly moisturized. Tears keep your eyes comfortable, clear your vision, and protect against infection.
Your tears are made up of three important layers:
- An oily layer that prevents evaporation,
- A watery layer that cleanses and nourishes
- A mucus layer that helps tears spread evenly across your eye surface
When any of these layers isn’t working properly, you can develop dry eye symptoms.
Many factors can contribute to dry eyes, including aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, environmental conditions like wind or air conditioning, and spending too much time looking at screens. Some people also have underlying conditions like autoimmune disorders that can affect tear production.
Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms can vary from person to person, but most people experience some combination of the following:
Stinging or burning sensations in your eyes are often the first signs people notice. Your eyes might feel like there’s sand or grit in them, even though nothing is actually there.
Excessive tearing might seem contradictory, but it’s actually a common dry eye symptom. When your eyes are irritated from dryness, they can overcompensate by producing too many tears, but these tears are often of poor quality and don’t provide the lubrication your eyes need.
Blurry vision that comes and goes throughout the day is another telltale sign. Blinking might temporarily clear your vision.
Eye fatigue and strain can make everyday tasks feel more difficult. Your eyes might feel tired even when you haven’t been using them extensively, and you might find yourself wanting to close your eyes frequently for relief.
Sensitivity to light can make it uncomfortable to be outdoors on bright days or even in well-lit indoor spaces. Some people also experience sensitivity to wind or air conditioning.
Why Choose Somerset Ophthalmology for Dry Eye Care
At Somerset Ophthalmology, we take a comprehensive approach to dry eye treatment.
Our experienced team understands that every patient’s dry eye condition is unique, which is why we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we use advanced diagnostic technology to identify the specific cause of your dry eyes and create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your individual needs.
Our doctors stay current with the latest research and treatment options in dry eye care. This allows us to identify not just that you have dry eyes, but why you have them and what treatment approach will be most effective for you.
We also believe in educating our patients about their condition. We’ll take the time to explain what’s causing your dry eyes and how different treatment options work, so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Our goal is not just to treat your symptoms, but to help you understand how to maintain healthy, comfortable eyes for the long term.
Tixel: Revolutionary Dry Eye and Skin Treatment
Tixel is an innovative treatment that addresses both chronic dry eye symptoms and the appearance of the delicate skin around your eyes. This cutting-edge technology provides gentle, effective relief without the need for lasers or needles.
Tixel works by delivering controlled natural heat through a unique contact method that stimulates your body’s natural healing processes. For dry eye relief, it enhances the function of the oil-producing glands in your eyelids, which are crucial for maintaining healthy tears. At the same time, it stimulates collagen production in the surrounding skin, improving texture and reducing fine lines and crepiness.
This FDA-cleared treatment is perfect for patients who want long-lasting dry eye relief while also addressing cosmetic concerns around the eyes. The procedure is comfortable, requires minimal downtime, and uses no harsh chemicals or invasive techniques.
Whether your primary concern is dry eye irritation or you’re looking for a safe way to refresh the appearance of your eye area, Tixel provides an effective solution. We’re proud to offer treatments that care for both your eye health and how you feel about your appearance, because both aspects are important to your overall well-being.
Ask us about Tixel® at your next visit or schedule a consultation today.
Advanced Dry Eye Treatment Options
We offer a comprehensive range of dry eye treatments to address different causes and severities of the condition:
Punctal Plugs
Punctal plugs are tiny devices that temporarily or permanently block your tear ducts to help retain the tears your eyes do produce. This simple, comfortable procedure can provide significant relief for many patients.
Prescription Medications
Prescription eye drops can help reduce inflammation and stimulate tear production. We’ll work with you to find the right medication and dosing schedule for your specific needs.
Autologous Serum Eye Drops
Autologous serum eye dropsare made from your own blood serum and provide natural nutrients and growth factors that can help heal and protect your eye surface.
ProKera
ProKara, an Amniotic Membrane, offers advanced treatment for severe dry eye cases, providing natural healing properties and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Schedule Today
Our team is committed to helping you find relief from dry eye symptoms so you can get back to enjoying life without the constant distraction of uncomfortable eyes.
Schedule a consultation at Somerset Ophthalmology in Troy, MI, today and learn more about how we can help you achieve healthier, more comfortable eyes.