Wondering why you have that burning or scratchy sensation in your eyes? Are they getting easily tired and sensitive to light? You may have what is known as dry eye syndrome. This condition occurs when your tear glands aren’t producing either an adequate amount of tears or good quality thereof to properly lubricate your eyes.
Learn more about dry eye syndrome and why you might want to consider visiting an eye specialist in St. Louis, Missouri for your care.
Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
The following are some of the most common culprits in dry eye syndrome:
- Aging
- Allergies
- Certain medical conditions (e.g. arthritis; blepharitis, an inflammation of the exterior and interior of the eyelids; diabetes; thyroid disease; and lupus)
- Certain medications (e.g. antihistamines, contraceptives, and beta-blockers)
- Hormonal changes
- Indoor and car air-conditioning
- Overuse or misuse of contact lenses
- Smoke
Seeking Treatment from the Best Eye Specialist in St. Louis
If you suspect that you may have dry eye syndrome, visit us at Advanced Sight Center. Our board-certified eye specialists provide high-quality, comprehensive care for the full range of eye conditions.
We will perform a thorough evaluation to pinpoint the cause of your dry eye. Depending on the results, your eye specialist will likely recommend any of the following:
- Anti-inflammatory medications– Your eye specialist may prescribe antibiotics to treat inflammation. Antibiotics for dry eyes are usually taken orally, albeit they are also available as eye drops and ointments.
- Ocular inserts- If you have moderate to severe dry eye symptoms, your eye specialist may recommend ocular inserts. These are sterile, tiny, drug-impregnated devices that are placed between your lower eyelid and your eyeball. Ocular inserts slowly dissolve and release a substance that efficiently lubricates your eyes.
- Tear-stimulating medications- These drugs apparently boost your tear production. They are available as eye drops, pills, and gels.
- Autologous blood serum drops– These are eye drops made from your own blood. Your doctor may give you this if you have severe dry eye syndrome, whose symptoms don’t respond to other types of treatment.
Self-Care Strategies for Soothing Dry Eye Symptoms
Your eye specialist may also recommend self-care measures in conjunction with your treatment plan to help enhance the results. Self-care measures include:
- Staying sufficiently hydrated
- When driving, directing the A/C or heat away from your face
- Taking vitamins and supplements to promote healthy corneal structure
- Wearing sunglasses outdoors
- Taking a break every 20 to 30 minutes when working on a computer
- Massing your eyelids
- Cleaning your eyelids regularly
To experience the best eye care services in St. Louis County, schedule an appointment with one of our eye specialists. Call our Washington office at (636) 239-1650 or you may also use our online appointment request form.
