Dry Eye Treatment in Houston, TX
What is Dry Eye?
What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort and visual disturbances. Characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, this condition can lead to irritation, redness, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Without proper treatment and management, dry eye can significantly impact your quality of life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatments is crucial for maintaining optimal eye health and comfort.
Understanding Dry Eye
Dry eyes can result from a variety of underlying causes. The tear film that coats the surface of your eyes consists of three essential layers: fatty oils, aqueous fluid, and mucus. These layers work together to maintain lubrication, smoothness, and clarity on the eye’s surface. Any disruption or imbalance in one or more of these layers can lead to dry eye symptoms. Understanding the function and composition of each layer is crucial for addressing the root causes of dry eyes effectively.
Three Layers of Tear Film:
Your tear film consists of three crucial layers that work in harmony to ensure your eyes stay moist and comfortable:
Fatty Oils: These oils, produced by the meibomian glands, form the outermost layer of the tear film. They prevent evaporation of tears and contribute to the overall stability of the tear film.
Aqueous Fluid: The middle layer is composed of a watery fluid produced by the lacrimal glands. This layer nourishes the cornea, washes away debris, and provides a smooth surface for clear vision.
Mucus: The innermost layer, produced by goblet cells, helps distribute the aqueous fluid evenly across the eye’s surface. It ensures that tears adhere to the eyes and do not bead up.
When any of these layers is compromised, it can disrupt the stability and effectiveness of the tear film, leading to the uncomfortable symptoms associated with dry eyes. Identifying which layer is affected can help in determining the most appropriate treatment approach.
Common Dry Eye Causes & symptoms
Treating and managing dry eye involves addressing a variety of factors, as each individual’s condition is unique. Our goal is to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. The treatment approach will depend on what the doctor identifies as the primary cause of your dry eye.
During your consultation, the doctor will perform comprehensive diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. These tests will provide a detailed understanding of your tear film composition and eye health, allowing the doctor to create a customized treatment plan designed to effectively manage and alleviate your dry eye condition. Here are some of dry eye solutions we offer:
Several factors can disrupt the delicate balance of the tear film and lead to dry eyes:
● Age: As we age, tear production tends to decrease, making older individuals more prone to dry eyes.
● Environmental Factors: Exposure to wind, smoke, and dry air can contribute to increased tear evaporation.
● Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can affect tear production.
● Medications: Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants, may reduce tear production.
● Screen Time: Prolonged use of digital devices can lead to reduced blink rates, causing the eyes to dry out.
Various symptoms can signal an imbalance in the tear film. The most common symptoms of dry include:
- Redness and irritation
- Watery eyes
- Sandy or gritty feeling
- Fluctuating vision
- Stinging or burning
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Stringy mucus
- Eye fatigue
Treating & Managing Dry Eye
Treating and managing dry eye involves addressing a variety of factors, as each individual’s condition is unique. Our goal is to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. The treatment approach will depend on what the doctor identifies as the primary cause of your dry eye.
During your consultation, the doctor will perform comprehensive diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. These tests will provide a detailed understanding of your tear film composition and eye health, allowing the doctor to create a customized treatment plan designed to effectively manage and alleviate your dry eye condition. Here are some of dry eye solutions we offer:
Optilight IPL
IPl, or intense pulsed light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that involves the use of a device that emits intense pulses of light to the area around the eyes. The light is absorbed by the skin and can stimulate the production of oils in the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the lipid layer of the tear film. IPL Therapy can help to improve the function of the meibomian glands and increase the quality of the oil produced, thereby reducing the symptoms of dry eye.
Tempsure Envi
Tempsure Envi is a non-invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency to melt the thick oil secretions obstructing the meibomian glands and decreases the harmful bacterial community, allowing for improved oil production, improving oil flow into the tears, and restabilizing the tear film. Since this treatment causes the skin to regenerate collagen, it also has the added benefit of tightening skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
ZEST
ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) is like a deep shampoo for the eyes to clean and debride the lids and lashes. After only one treatment, patients will notice an improvement in their dry eye symptoms, blepharitis and demodex. ZEST may be the answer to help your eyes look and feel better.
Prokera
Prokera is a combination medical device used by eye doctors around the world for anti-inflammation, anti-scarring and promoting healing of damaged eye surfaces. It contains the only FDA-cleared cryopreserved amniotic membrane, which supports the corneal-healing process without harmful side effects.
Schedule A Dry Eye Consultation
Our non-invasive treatments not only offer minimal downtime but are also performed in-office by our licensed optometrists. We understand the importance of convenience and comfort in your experience. Embark on the path to clearer, more comfortable eyes by scheduling a consultation with our dedicated dry eye specialist. Whether you’re coming in for a regular eye checkup or addressing specific dry eye concerns, we are here to guide you. Call us at 713-528-0765 or contact us to take the first step toward lasting relief. Your comfort is our top priority, and we look forward to helping you achieve lasting relief from dry eyes.