Dry eye

Dry Eye Q&A

Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common reasons people visit their eye doctor. At Tampa Bay Eye and Facial Aesthetics in Lutz, Florida, board-certified ophthalmologist Sara Creekmore, DO, provides advanced therapy for treating dry eyes. If you have symptoms of dry eye syndrome that are interfering with your daily activities, contact the office by phone or request a visit online to make an appointment.

    Dry eye

    What causes dry eyes?

    Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs when you don’t have enough moisture on the surface of your eyes or you lack quality tears. Common causes of dry eyes include:

    • Eyelid problems

    • Certain medical treatments, such as hormone replacement therapy and blood pressure medication

    • Damage to your tear glands

    • Diabetes and other medical conditions

    • Aging

    • Imbalance of tear composition

    • Environmental factors and poor air quality
    ​​​​​​​

    ​​​​Additionally, if your tear glands don’t function properly or produce a poor-quality of tears, you can experience chronic dry eyes. Left untreated, dry eyes can lead to eye infections and damage to the surface of your eyes (corneas).

    Dry eyes can make it difficult to read a book, work on a computer, or wear contact lenses without major discomfort.

    What are the symptoms of dry eyes?

    If you have dry eye syndrome, you may experience any of the following symptoms:

    • Red, itchy eyes

    • Burning sensation in your eyes

    • Sore eyes

    • Eyes that feel heavy

    • Blurred vision

    • Aching sensations in your eyes

    • Foreign body sensation, or feeling of grit in your eyes

    • Excessively watery eyes

    • Light sensitivity

    Treatment at Tampa Bay Eye and Facial Aesthetics can alleviate these symptoms so you can function and perform daily tasks without so much discomfort.

    What are the treatment options for dry eyes?

    Dry eye treatment depends on your diagnosis, and Dr. Creekmore creates an individualized plan based on your symptoms and the underlying causes of your dry eyes.

    For many adults, dry eye treatment includes artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated throughout the day. If initial treatment doesn’t provide sufficient relief, Dr. Creekmore offers advanced therapy for treating dry eyes, including:

    Medications

    Various medications can treat dry eye symptoms, including antibiotics to reduce eyelid inflammation, drugs to stimulate tears, and eyedrops to control cornea inflammation.

    Supplements

    Nutritional supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids may provide relief from dry eyes and reduce symptoms.

    Other treatments

    Dr. Creekmore may recommend using a warm compress or eye mask daily to clear blocked oil glands. Or, she may close your tear ducts with removable silicone plugs called punctal plugs to reduce tear loss.

    To schedule your exam, contact Tampa Bay Eye and Facial Aesthetics by phone or request an appointment online today.