Dry eye is a condition that can be frustrating, irritating, and painful. However, it is possible to get dry eye treatment and start to feel better. If you are experiencing the symptoms of dry eye or it has been a while since your last eye exam, contact Family Vision to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors. We have three convenient locations in Anderson, Williamston, and Clemson.
What Causes Dry Eye?
There are two main mechanisms behind dry eye, and there are a variety of ways that they can be caused. The key to dry eye is the eye's tear film. It sits on the front of the eyes and keeps them comfortable and lubricated. This film can dry out too quickly or can be of poor quality. Both of these variables will lead to not enough of the three layers of tear film that are needed for proper lubrication. This can be caused by taking certain medications such as antidepressants and thyroid medication.
It can also be caused by the hormonal shifts that occur during pregnancy and menopause. Certain medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disease can cause this condition to develop. If there is too much wind or air-conditioned air on you, your tear film will begin to evaporate more quickly, leading to dry eye. If you are getting older, your body may not make as much tear film as it used to.
Getting Treatment for Dry Eye
There are a few ways that dry eye can be treated. At home, you can treat it with humidifiers that are set up in the rooms that you use most often. This moisturizes the air so that your tear film will not evaporate as rapidly. You can also take over-the-counter eye drops that are available in any pharmacy or grocery store. Using a compress that is moist and hot can help to add soothing moisture to your eyes.
Some devices can be used at the optometrist's office to help treat the condition as well as prescription eye drops. These eye drops fight the inflammation that is often caused by dry eye. People usually get dry eye treatment from their optometrist as well as use at-home methods to reduce or eliminate their dry eye.
Visit Our Optometry Centers in Anderson, Williamston, Clemson, SC
If you are experiencing red, irritated, dry eyes and would like to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors, contact Family Vision. We will perform a comprehensive exam and create a treatment plan designed to provide dry eye relief. Call our Anderson office today at (864)-226-6041, Williamston office at (864) 847-7657, or our Clemson office at (864) 722-9205. You can also reach us through our website by using our online contact form.