Dry Eyes

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that can dramatically impact your performance at work and school. At Harrisburg Eye Associates in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, experienced opthamologist Alexander Szeles II, DO, and his dedicated team offer dry eye examinations and treatments to help preserve your eye health, restore clear vision, and reduce discomfort. Call the office or book an appointment online today to learn more about dry eyes.

What are dry eyes?

Dry eyes are a common problem in which eyes aren’t well lubricated. When there isn’t enough lubrication, you might have inflammation on the surface of your eye, which may lead to a variety of uncomfortable and bothersome symptoms. 

At Harrisburg Eye Associates, the team offers comprehensive eye exams and treatments for dry eyes to give you symptom relief. 

How are dry eyes diagnosed?

The Harrisburg Eye Associates team may perform tests to evaluate the volume or quality of your tears. They can measure your tear production and see how long it takes before your tears evaporate. 

They then use the information gathered during your eye exam to develop a treatment plan for you. Your treatment plan is fully customizable to suit your preferences and needs to help you find the relief you’re seeking.

What causes dry eyes?

Dry eye syndrome often occurs due to tear deficiency. When lacrimal glands (tear-producing glands) supply insufficient tears to keep the surface of your eye well hydrated, it can cause dry eyes. 

If you have inflammation due to dry eyes, the tears you produce might also evaporate quickly, which may lead to further irritation.

Other causes of dry eyes might include: 

• Allergies 
• Use of certain medications 
• Wearing contact lens 
• Skin disease near the eyes
• Having LASIK (laser eye surgery)
• Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
• Graves’ disease

While there are many more causes to dry eyes, the best way to determine your specific cause is through an eye evaluation.

What symptoms do dry eyes cause?

Dry eyes might cause symptoms such as:

• Stinging and burning sensation 
• A grainy or sandy feeling
• Heaviness in the eyelids
• Eye fatigue
• Pain and redness
• Intolerance for contact lenses
• Periodic blurred vision
• Discharge from the eye

You might feel desperate for relief when you have dry eyes. Fortunately, dry eye syndrome can be treated promptly.

If dry eyes are left untreated, it’s important to note that it may increase your risk of corneal ulcers and even some degree of vision loss.

If you need relief for dry eyes, call Harrisburg Eye Associates or book an appointment online today.