Rockford, MI
Dry Eye Specialist
Rockford, MI
Dry Eye Specialist
Find relief from dry, itchy, irritated eyes
Dry eye is a common issue for many people, whether it’s caused by too much screen time or being in a dry environment. However, if your symptoms persist or seem to be getting worse, you might have a chronic condition known as dry eye syndrome. If you’re tired of the irritation, redness, and itching that comes with chronic or severe dry eye, there are many treatment options available. At Bella Vista Family Eye Care, our dry eye specialist in Rockford, Michigan will evaluate your symptoms, determine the underlying cause, and recommend the best dry eye treatment options for your specific needs.
What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome, also known as dry disease, can occur when your eyes don’t produce enough tears to stay moist and healthy. Dry eye can also happen when your eyes don’t make the right quality of tears. This can make your eyes feel uncomfortable and even affect your vision in serious cases. Many symptoms associated with dry eye, such as red, itchy, and watery eyes, can be caused by other conditions. While it can be tempting to self-diagnose, it is important to see an eye care professional if you suspect dry eye is to blame for your symptoms.
Common dry eye symptoms in Rockford, MI
People with dry eyes may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- A stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
- Redness in the eyes
- Itching or irritation
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision
- Eye fatigue
- Excessive tearing
- Feeling like something is in your eye
- Trouble wearing contact lenses
Causes of dry eyes in Rockford, MI
One of the most common causes of dry eyes is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands are small glands found along the edge of your eyelids that create an oil called meibum. This oil plays a crucial role in preventing your tears from evaporating too quickly and in keeping your eyes moist. If these glands get blocked or don’t work properly, it can result in MGD. Signs of MGD may include redness around your eyes, crusty eyelids, sensitivity to light, and blurry vision.
Other causes of dry eye include:
- Aging (people over 50 have a higher risk)
- Environmental factors such as a dry climate, wind, & air conditioning
- Computer use and extended screen time
- Certain medications such as antihistamines, birth control, & decongestants
- Medical conditions like autoimmune diseases & diabetes
- Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy and after menopause
- Eye surgery (e.g., LASIK)
- Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids)
- Demodex mite infestations
- Poor blinking habits
- Contact lens wear
How is dry eye disease diagnosed in Rockford, MI?
At Bella Vista Family Eye Care, our eye doctor can check for dry eye as a part of your comprehensive eye exam. When diagnosing dry eye, Dr. Jackson may ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, current medications, and existing medical conditions to determine the most likely cause of your dry eyes. He will thoroughly examine your eyes for signs of dry eye and perform different tests to evaluate different aspects of your tear film and better understand your condition. If you’re diagnosed with dry eye, he may suggest further testing or a combination of lifestyle changes and treatment options to help relieve your symptoms.
Dry eye treatment in Rockford, MI
Once Dr. Jackson has diagnosed you with dry eyes, he will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. This may include prescription eye drops or ointments to help lubricate the eyes, as well as lifestyle changes such as using a humidifier or avoiding environmental factors that trigger or exacerbate your symptoms. Other treatment options include:
- Heated eye masks (D.E.R.M. by EyeEco)
- Omega-3 supplements (Nordic Naturals)
- Artificial tears (Optase)
- Tea tree oil wipes/cleanser (Optase and Blephadex)
In some cases, we may recommend advanced treatments such as punctal plugs or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy to help manage severe or chronic dry eye. You can learn about our OptiLight IPL therapy for dry eye here:
Visit our dry eye specialist in Rockford
You don’t have to live in discomfort any longer. Our dry eye specialist in Rockford, Michigan is here to help you manage your symptoms with personalized care and a range of treatment options. Whether you’re dealing with mild or severe dry eye, Dr. Jackson can recommend treatment options for lasting relief. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced eye doctor.