Dry Eye
What is Dry Eye?
Dry Eye, as a condition, is defined as the eye’s inability to produce tears and lubricate itself. Dry Eye Syndrome affects millions of people every day, and causes range from aging to environmental irritants to pre-existing medical conditions.
Dry eye occurs when there is a problem with the quality or quantity of tears secreted. The normal tear film is a complex structure composed of many different layers. The oil layer is the protective layer of the tear film and prevents evaporation of tears. If there is an insufficient oil layer, the tears are quickly evaporated resulting in a dry eye.
Signs of Dry Eye
- Blurriness
- Sensitivity to light
- Irritation from windy conditions
- Fatigued eyes at the end of the day
- Problems wearing contact lenses
- Scratchy or gritty feeling
- Excessive tearing
- Red Eyes
Possible Causes of Dry Eyes
Sun/Wind Exposure
Heavy Reading or Digital Device Use
Prolonged Contact Lens Wearing
Health Conditions Such as Diabetes, Arthritis, Lupus and Sjogren’s Syndrome
Dry Eye Clinic
At our Dry Eye Clinic, we identify the underlying cause of dry eye symptoms and offer patients a customized treatment plan. In most cases, a patient’s plan will include a combination of in-office testing and a personalized at-home regimen that may include special drops.
South Georgia/North Florida Eye Partners has extensive experience with Dry Eye and is our resident expert in this area. She and the rest of our team is dedicated to offering the most up-to-date, comprehensive care for patients with dry eye, blepharitis, and various ocular surface disorders. During your first appointment, you will meet with Dr. Norman or one of our other physicians for your evaluation, and a personalized treatment plan.