Skip to main content

Help for Your Dry Eyes

Rubbing, blinking, and itching are the three constants when it comes to having dry eyes. If regular eye drops don’t help, it might be time to visit an expert. Dry, irritated eyes can be a sign of poor tear production, and leaving your eyes chronically dry may make you vulnerable to inflammation and infection. 

At Harlem VistaSite Eye Care in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City, Brittni Rodriguez, OD, and Sarah Quan, OD, can help identify and treat the cause of your dry eyes.

Common causes of dry eyes

Tears are more than just water. They’re made with water — or aqueous fluid — mucus, and oil. Water provides hydration, oil slows down evaporation, and mucus protects the surface of your eyes. Your eyes need all three of these in correct amounts so they can function well.

If there’s an imbalance in your tears, this can lead to problems. For example, if there’s a blockage in the oil glands around your eyes, this can lead to a decrease in oil production, which could cause your tears to evaporate too quickly. Or, if your eyes don’t produce enough water for your tears, this could lead to a decrease in tear production.

Dry eye disease can develop in anyone, regardless of their age or occupation. However, certain environmental and lifestyle factors could put you at a higher risk of developing dry eye disease, including: 

Treating dry eyes 

The most common treatment for chronic cases of dry eye disease is using prescription eye drops. Many over-the-counter eye drops can hydrate your eyes and reduce inflammation, but you might need prescription-strength eye drops to stimulate tear production. 

Warm compresses, eyelid cleaners, and massages can help unclog oil glands and encourage the production of higher quality tears. If your dry eye condition is severe and resists these treatments, you might be eligible for surgery to correct the issue. 

Over time, chronically dry eyes can lead to permanent damage, often caused by prolonged inflammation or infection. If your dry eye symptoms are extensive, your provider might recommend amniotic membrane treatments to heal the surfaces of your eyes. 

Do you often have painful, itchy eyes? Learn more about your treatment options by booking an appointment online or over the phone with Harlem VistaSite Eye Care today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Why Am I So Sensitive to Light?

Light sensitivity, which is also called photophobia, can be caused by anything from migraines to meningitis. If you’ve found yourself more sensitive to light lately, here’s when to consult a specialist about your photophobia.
The Best Ways to Support Your Vision

The Best Ways to Support Your Vision

Much like both your hearing and dental needs, you must maintain your eye health throughout your life to support your vision. Here are the best ways to keep your sight intact. 
Is There a Way to Treat Cataracts Without Surgery?

Is There a Way to Treat Cataracts Without Surgery?

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness, but also the most easily corrected. Full replacement of the clouded lens is eventually necessary, but keep reading to learn how to treat the symptoms before you schedule surgery.
Which Type of Contact Lenses Are Right for Me?

Which Type of Contact Lenses Are Right for Me?

You’ve made the decision to transition from wearing glasses to contact lenses. What are your options? Although fitting glasses is about frames, contact lenses are about materials. Here’s what you need to know. 
Is My Computer Giving Me Dry Eyes?

Is My Computer Giving Me Dry Eyes?

Screen time isn’t all bad, but it can have both psychological and physical effects. One of the latter is dry eyes, which can worsen the more time you spend with your computer.
When to Schedule a Back-to-School Eye Exam

When to Schedule a Back-to-School Eye Exam

Getting prepared for the new school year involves more than stocking up on pencils and paper. Checking to make sure you can see in class is just as important. Poor eyesight can interfere with sports, taking notes, and more.