Dry eyes, also known as dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is a common condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to a lack of moisture and lubrication on the surface of the eye, causing irritation, redness, and a gritty or sandy sensation.

There are two main types of dry eye:

1. Aqueous-deficient dry eye: This occurs when the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough tears, resulting in a lack of moisture on the eye's surface.

2. Evaporative dry eye: This type of dry eye is caused by a dysfunction in the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of tears that helps prevent evaporation. When these glands do not function properly, tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness.

Dry eye syndrome is a prevalent condition, affecting millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by various factors, including aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, environmental factors (such as dry or windy climates), prolonged screen time, and medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren's syndrome.

Fortunately, there are several effective treatments available to manage dry eyes and alleviate symptoms. At our office, we offer the following treatments:

1. Artificial Tears: These are lubricating eye drops that help replenish moisture and provide temporary relief from dryness. They can be used as needed throughout the day.

2. Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to your eyes can help improve oil gland function and relieve dryness. This simple and soothing technique can be easily incorporated into your daily routine.

3. TearCare: TearCare is an innovative treatment that uses regulated heat to unclog and open the blocked meibomian glands. By improving the flow of oil onto the eye's surface, TearCare helps restore moisture and reduce dryness.

4. Punctal Plugs: These tiny silicone plugs are inserted into the tear ducts to block the drainage of tears. By keeping more tears on the eye's surface, punctal plugs help maintain moisture and reduce dryness.

5. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatments: PRP is a therapy that uses the patient's own blood to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. When applied to the eyes, PRP can help improve tear production and alleviate dry eye symptoms.

Our experienced and knowledgeable team will assess your specific condition and recommend the most suitable treatment options tailored to your needs. We are committed to providing effective solutions to help you find relief from dry eyes and improve your eye health.