Dry Eye Treatments in The Bay Area
Are you experiencing burning, stinging, or gritty eyes? Do your eyes feel tired or blurry after hours in front of a screen? If these symptoms sound familiar, you may be dealing with dry eye disease. At Spectrum Eye Physicians, we understand how frustrating dry eye symptoms can be and are here to help.
Dry eye is common in the Bay Area, often worsened by environmental factors and modern lifestyles. With eight convenient locations, we offer expert care to help you find relief.
What is Dry Eye Disease?
Dry eye disease, or dry eye syndrome, occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness, irritation, and discomfort. Tears play a critical role in keeping your eyes healthy and clear. When tear production or quality is disrupted, it can affect your vision and quality of life.
Do you Have Dry Eyes?
Dry eye symptoms can vary from mild irritation to more severe discomfort. Common signs include:
- A burning, stinging, or scratchy sensation in the eyes.
- Redness or irritation.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Blurred or fluctuating vision.
- A gritty feeling, as if something is in your eye.
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses for long periods.
Common Dry Eye Causes
The condition can be caused by several factors, including:
- Aging and Hormonal Changes: Tear production often decreases with age, especially in postmenopausal women.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, smoke, dry air, or prolonged screen time.
- Contact Lens Wear: Extended or improper use of contact lenses.
- Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases, diabetes, or thyroid disorders.
- Medications: Certain antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications.
Understanding the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
Spectrum Eye Physicians uses cutting-edge technology to accurately diagnose the cause and severity of your dry eye:
- Tear Film Testing: Measures the quantity and quality of your tears.
- Ocular Surface Imaging: Provides detailed images of your eye’s surface.
- Blink Assessment: Evaluate how often and effectively you blink to identify potential issues.
How We Treat Dry Eye
The team at Spectrum Eye Physicians offers a comprehensive range of treatments to address all levels of dry eye disease:
Do You Wear Contacts?
Up to 50% of contact lens users report experiencing dry eye symptoms, often linked to improper lens care or extended wear.
Kids and Dry Eye? It’s True!
Dry eye isn’t just for adults—kids can get it, too! Increased screen time, allergies, or even vitamin deficiencies can leave young eyes feeling dry and irritated.
Dry Eye Management at Home
In addition to our professional treatments, we encourage patients to adopt simple habits at home to help them manage their dry eye symptoms:
- Take frequent breaks during screen time to reduce eye strain.
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from wind and UV exposure.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Keep your eyelids clean with regular scrubs and warm compresses.
Don’t let dry eye disease interfere with your daily life. Schedule a consultation at Spectrum Eye Physicians to discover the right treatments for your needs. With advanced diagnostic tools and personalized care, we’ll help you achieve long-lasting relief and restore comfort to your eyes.