Dry Eye
Dry eyes can make simple tasks uncomfortable, but relief is possible. At Coastal Eye Group, we focus on personalized treatment plans that restore comfort and improve your eye health.
What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance can cause discomfort, irritation, and in some cases, affect your vision.
While it may seem minor, dry eye can significantly impact your daily life and overall eye health if left untreated.
At Coastal Eye Group, our experienced doctors are dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatments to relieve dry eye symptoms and protect your vision.
What Causes Dry Eye?
Identifying the underlying cause of your dry eye symptoms is a crucial step in creating an effective treatment plan. Dry eye can result from a variety factors.
Common causes include:
- Aging
- Hormonal changes
- Underlying medical conditions
- Certain medications
- Environmental factors such as dry air or wind
- Prolonged screen use
- Contact lens wear
- Previous laser eye surgery
What are the Symptoms of Dry Eye?
Dry eye can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. The most common signs include:
- Scratchy or gritty feeling in the eyes
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Feeling of something in the eye
- Redness or general eye irritation
- Occasional blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Excess tearing or watery eyes
These may be signs of dry eye, though they can also be caused by other conditions.
If your eyes feel uncomfortable or your vision is changing, schedule a consultation with Coastal Eye Group and regain comfort and clarity.
Dry Eye Treatments at Coastal Eye Group
At Coastal Eye Group, we tailor dry eye care to each patient, focusing on symptom relief and long-term eye health.
OTC/Prescribed Medication
Over-the-counter drops and medications can help relieve dry eye symptoms by keeping your eyes lubricated, reducing inflammation, and improving tear production. While OTC drops provide temporary relief, prescription medications may target the underlying causes of dry eye for longer-lasting comfort.
Punctal Plug
Punctal plugs are small, comfortable devices your eye doctor can place in the openings that drain tears from your eyes. They help keep your eyes naturally hydrated, relieving dryness and irritation.
Amniotic Membranes
For severe dry eye, especially when the surface of the eye is damaged, our doctors may recommend amniotic membrane, the innermost layer of the placenta, to support healing and reduce inflammation on the eye's surface.