Dry Eye Treatment

Dry eye syndrome is a condition that can be caused by various medical conditions or simply due to not producing enough tears. The surface of the eye is covered by a tear film with moisture created in the lacrimal glands that passes through tear ducts onto the surface of your eye. Symptoms of dry eyes include itchiness, redness, and a burning sensation.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact our offices at (402) 986-7856 or go to the nearest emergency room

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Medical conditions that can cause dry eye

There are a number of medical conditions that can cause dry eye symptoms, including:

Allergies
Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids)
Chronic sinusitis
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
Contact lenses
Dry environments
Eye surgery
Graft-versus-host disease
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS)
Lupus
Meibomian gland dysfunction
Blepharospasm (involuntary blinking or spasm of the eyelids)
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sjögren’s syndrome

If you have any of these conditions, it is important to be aware that dry eye may be a symptom.

Dry eyes can come from environmental factors

Evaporative dry eye can happen when the moisture on the ocular surface evaporates faster than it is replenished. Environmental conditions like very dry air can be the culprit.

A more common condition in recent years is dry eyes from extended computer use. We do not blink as often as usual while staring at a computer screen. Increased screen time may be the cause of your dry eye.

Medications can cause dry eye

Other causes of dry eye include certain over-the-counter and prescription medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and blood pressure medications like beta blockers. If you are taking any of these medications, talk to your doctor about the possibility of dry eye treatment.

There are a few different treatment options for dry eye. One common treatment is to use artificial tears, which can help to lubricate the eyes and reduce discomfort. Another option is to use eye drops that contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to increase tear production.
If your dry eye is caused by a health condition, treatment will focus on resolving that condition in addition to the dry eye treatment. For example, if you have Sjögren’s syndrome, treatment may involve using immunosuppressive drugs.

Dr. Novak has a special interest in dry eyes as it affects so many people. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, please make an appointment with Dr. Novak for the best treatment plan for you.