Dry Eye Treatment Specialist

What are dry eyes?

If your eyes can’t adequately keep themselves lubricated, you might have a common condition called dry eyes. Dry eyes can happen if your eyes don’t produce enough tears or if the tears they produce are chemically imbalanced. 

Your eyes must produce well-balanced tears because proper lubrication keeps your eyes clear and helps prevent eye infections. You might develop dry eyes because of the following factors:

• Aging
• Hormone fluctuations
• Certain medications
• Eye inflammation
• Underlying medical conditions (diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis)
• Tear gland damage 
• Long-term contact lens use
• Going without blinking for a while
• Environmental conditions (smoke, chemical fumes, wind)
  
  

In some cases, dry eyes last for a short time and do not require treatment. You can reduce your chances of getting dry eyes by avoiding blowing air directly into your eyes, taking breaks while using computer, TV, or phone screens, and using artificial tears if necessary.

How can I tell if I need treatment for dry eyes?

You should book an appointment for dry eye treatment at Berkeley Heights Eye Group if your symptoms last for a long time without relief. Dry eyes symptoms vary and can include:

• Eye redness and irritation
• Burning or itching
• The sensation of having something stuck in your eye
• Mucus around your eyes
• Trouble with night vision
• Eye fatigue
• Eye-watering
  
  

Dr. Leventhal thoroughly examines your eyes and assesses your medical history to find a cause and plan appropriate treatment. He might place dyes in your eyes for a better view of your tear production and any changes to your eyes’ surfaces due to dryness. 

How does dry eye treatment work?

If Dr. Leventhal determines you have chronic dry eyes, he helps you explore your treatment options. Your dry eye treatment might include:

Artificial tears

Artificial tears come in the form of eye drops. You place them in your eyes as needed to manage your symptoms. 

Plugging your tear ducts

Dr. Leventhal might give you small, removable silicone plugs to block your tears’ drainage system. This method keeps your natural tears in your eyes for longer than usual to ease your symptoms.

Increasing your natural tear production

Certain eye drops can stimulate your eyes’ production of tears. Dr. Leventhal might also recommend specific nutritional supplements to promote tear production.

If your eyes are always itchy, irritated, or watery, don’t hesitate to call Berkeley Heights Eye Group or schedule an appointment online for dry eye treatment today.