Dry eye is a medical condition characterized by a deficiency in the quality or quantity of tears, the essential lubricants of the eye. This condition may be due to various factors, including age, gender, lifestyle, environmental conditions, and certain medical conditions. Dry eye, if left untreated, can lead to a myriad of complications such as eye inflammation, corneal ulcers, and even vision loss in severe cases.

Causes and Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye is caused by a variety of factors. One of the most common causes is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which affects the oil layer of the tear film. When these glands aren't functioning correctly, they produce less oil, leading to faster evaporation of tears and dry eye. Other causes include age, hormonal changes, certain medications, and underlying health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome.

The symptoms of dry eye can vary greatly among individuals. The most common symptoms include a stinging or burning sensation in the eyes, redness, sensitivity to light, blurry vision, and a feeling of something in the eye. In some cases, paradoxically, dry eye can cause excessive tear production, which is the body's response to the discomfort from dry eye.

Dry Eye Treatment at Market Street Optometry

At Market Street Optometry, our dry eye services are designed to provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs and conditions.

We begin with a thorough examination to determine the cause of your dry eye. This includes tear film analysis, meibomian gland evaluation, and ocular surface assessment. Based on these findings, we then develop a treatment plan that may include lifestyle modifications, artificial tears, prescription eye drops, or advanced treatments like Optilight Plus, RF, and IPL.

IPL Therapy

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is another innovative treatment option for dry eye patients. IPL has been found effective in treating dry eye, particularly in cases related to rosacea or other inflammatory skin conditions.

IPL therapy works by emitting pulses of light that target and destroy the abnormal blood vessels that contribute to inflammation and meibomian gland dysfunction. Additionally, the heat generated by the light helps to melt and express the hardened oils blocking the glands.

IPL therapy has shown promising results in reducing dry eye symptoms and improving meibomian gland function. It's a safe, non-invasive procedure that offers a new hope for those who have struggled with traditional dry eye treatments.