What causes dry eyes?

With our increase use of digital devices, our eyes have become more dry. Studies have shown that our average blink rate decreases from 22sec to 4 secs when staring at a computer and this leads to evaporative dry eyes.  Contact lens can also dry our eyes. Other environmental factors include allergies, smoking, cold weather, heaters and air conditioners. Some other factors include natural aging process, certain medications, and systemic conditions like hypothyroidism and eczema.  Hormonal changes like birth control and pregnancy can cause dry eyes.

How do I know if my eyes are dry?

They might feel red, itchy, or scratchy. Dry eyes can produce a tearing and burning sensation when you are outdoors or exposed to bright light.  It can cause discomfort and irritation in contact lenses. Your eyes may feel tired, strained, or fatigued particularly at the end of a work day.

How can dry eyes be treated?

Mild dry eye symptoms can typically be treated with over-the-counter artificial tears (Systane, Blink, Refresh) or slightly more powerful prescription medications such as Restatis, Xiidra, or Lumify, to name a few.

There are also a number of more advanced and effective treatments for those who have more persistent symptoms, or to address other contributing factors to chronic eye dryness, which include collagen plugs, meibomian gland massage, and BlephEx.

What are Collagen Plugs?

Collagen punctal plugs are a safe effective way to treat dry eyes from excessive computer use, contact lens wear, or allergies.  The plugs are gently placed into your tear drainage site on your bottom lids and help you regain a healthy tear film. They are safe, painless, and effective to use as they gradually dissolve on its own.  

What is meibomian gland massage & Lipiflow?

Meibomian gland massage is a gentle effective way to express oil glands along your lids and treat dry eyes. Treatment involves microscopic expression of your blocked glands with tea tree oil and warm digital massage.

LipiFlow is a state-of-the art instrument that helps to gently express your glands that is quickly becoming the standard of care for dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction.

What is BlephEx?

BlephEx is a quick, in-office procedure to clean eyelids to maintain eyelid hygiene. With regular treatments, patients are able to reduce the recurrence of symptoms associated with dry eye and blepharitis.