There are many causes of Dry Eye symptoms. The causes surround us daily and can be difficult to avoid such as prolonged screen time, windy, dusty and smoky environments, allergies and medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy.
General health disorders like diabetes and thyroid disease contribute to ocular surface issues as do autoimmune disorders (Sjorgren’s syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis).
At Westside Optometry we consider dry eye a symptom of ocular surface disease. Dry, red, burning eyes are often not just from a lack of tears, but dysfunction of tissues and structures of the eyes and eyelids.
Westside Optometry recently added a new treatment option to our Dry Eye Clinic. Our new thermal device produces constant, targeted and sustained heat to the eyelids. The thermal device melts the waxy substance trapped inside the meibomian glands.
Once sufficient heat has been applied (about 10 minutes) the doctor will apply compression to the lids to express the clogged meibomian glands. The application of controlled and localized heat is beneficial for dry eyes, blepharitis and styes.
In most cases, the doctor will follow the thermal treatment and expression with a BlephEx session to clean the lids and lashes thoroughly of all debris and demodex.
If you are interested in a dry eye exam and treatment,call the office to schedule and appointment. 707-762-8643.