Dry Eye

Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when the eyes are insufficiently moisturized, leading to itching, redness and pain from dry spots on the surface of the eye. The eyes may become dry and irritated because the lacrimal glands don’t produce enough tears, or because of an imbalance in the tear chemistry.

MAINTAINING THE BEST EYE CARE HEALTH IS DR. VAN NORMAN’S NUMBER ONE PRIORITY WITH ALL OF HIS PATIENTS.

Patients with this condition often experience irritating symptoms and which may result in more serious damage to the vision if the condition is left untreated.

It is important for patients with this condition to take special care of their eyes in order to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Dr. Van Norman can diagnose dry eye after a thorough evaluation of your eyes and tear production with a Schirmer tear test.

PRIMARY CAUSES OF DRY EYE

People typically begin experiencing dry eye symptoms as they age, but the condition can also result from certain medications, conditions, or eye injuries. Dry eye tends to affect women more often than men, due to the hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy or menopause. Oral contraceptives may also affect the consistency of tears, leading to dry eye. Dry eye is more common in people over the age of 50. Other causes of dry eye may include:

Aging
An eye injury
Long-term contact lens use
Medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, or antidepressants
Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or Sjogren’s syndrome
Environmental conditions such as smoke, wind, air conditioning and dry climates
Eye surgery or eyelid surgery
Sun exposure or keratitis exposure
Smoking exposure or second-hand exposure to smoke
Thyroid eye disease
Inflammation of the conjunctiva

These factors can affect the frequency or consistency of tears, both of which can lead to dry eyes. Our natural tears require a certain chemical balance in order to efficiently moisturize the eyes.

COMMON Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye causes a scratchy sensation or the feeling that something is in the eye. Other symptoms include stinging or burning, episodes of excess tearing that follow periods of dryness, discharge, pain, and redness in the eye.
People with dry eye may also feel as if their eyelids are heavy and may experience blurred vision. Patients with dry eye may experience certain symptoms from this condition, usually affecting both eyes, which may also include:
- Eye fatigue
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Excessive tearing
- Blurry vision
- Irritation from smoke or wind
Dry eye can damage the eye’s tissues leaving tiny abrasions on the surface of your eyes, impairing vision.
Fortunately, many treatment options are available to help relieve the symptoms of dry eyes, restoring health back to the eyes ensuring clear vision and long-term health. If left untreated, dry eye could lead to the following complications:
- Pain
- Ulcers or scars on the cornea
- Loss of vision

Treatment for dry eye depends on the cause and severity of the condition, as well as the patient’s overall health and personal preference.

Non-surgical treatments are often effective, and may include the following:

Blinking on purpose
Increasing humidity levels at home or work
Use artificial tears or a moisturizing ointment
Stop smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
Avoiding air conditioning or windy conditions outdoors
Stop the use of allergy and cold medicines
Adding omega-3 fatty acids to the diet as food or supplements

Patient Reviews

Patiently Answered Questions

“My daughter had LASIK done by Dr. Van Norman. She is pleased with the results 2 years post opp. Dr. Van Norman helped me feel as comfortable as possible. He patiently answered every question I had.”

– Jeana M

Very Attentive & Listened to Concerns

“Dr. Borel was great. Very attentive and listened to my concerns. She was so down to earth and easy to talk to. I won’t go anywhere else for my eye needs.”

– Sara W

Exceptional
Professionals

“Dr. Van Norman and his staff are exceptional professionals. What a joy to be attended by such fine folks. Looking forward to cataract surgery under such capable hands.”

– Herbert P

Highly
Recommend!

“Dr. Van Norman did a wonderful job on my cataracts and would highly recommend him. I have seen the optometrist several times for minor problems and always helpful and accurate with the problem.”

– James C

Great Sense
of Humor

“Great staff. Professional with a great sense of humor.”

– Kenneth S

Friendly &
Welcoming

“Dr. Borel was professional, thorough, efficient and yet friendly and welcoming all at the same time. Thank you!”

– Sandra P

Your Vision Is Our Focus!

Schedule Your Appointment