Dry Eye

A protective film of tears coats the eye’s outer layer, ensuring comfort and clear vision. However, some people may not produce enough tears to keep their eyes wet and comfortable, leading to a condition called dry eye. It is one of the most common eye conditions, affecting millions worldwide.

Dr. Katina Simmons, an optometrist and the proud owner of Griswold Eye Care, is dedicated to providing personalized care to patients suffering from dry eye. With her expertise as an eye doctor and dedication to personalized care, you can rest assured that you will receive the best possible treatment for your dry eye.

Several factors can contribute to dry eye, including certain illnesses such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Graves’ disease, diabetes, scleroderma, and Sjogren’s syndrome. Hormonal changes in women after menopause and during pregnancy, poor blinking habits while reading or looking at a computer screen for long periods, a dry indoor environment, contact lenses, and certain medications can also cause dry eye.

A dry eye can cause a range of symptoms, including teary, watery, or red eyes, a burning or dry sensation, and mucus that gives the sensation that your eyes are ‘glued shut’ when you wake up. Many people also report the feeling of something in the vision or eyestrain. Itching and light sensitivity may also occur, and symptoms are usually worse late in the day.

In many cases, dry eye can be diagnosed based on symptoms alone. Dr. Simmons may also use a variety of tests to confirm the diagnosis, including measuring tear production, special dyes, and evaluation of the constitution of the tear film. These tests can help rule out other problems producing similar symptoms, such as conjunctivitis.

At Griswold Eye Care, Dr. Simmons and her team are committed to providing personalized care to every patient. She understands that each patient’s needs are unique and works with them to find the best treatment for their dry eye. Whether you need a comprehensive eye exam or help to understand your vision insurance coverage, the knowledgeable staff at Griswold Eye Care will go above and beyond to ensure your satisfaction.

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition characterized by when a person has insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. It can cause discomfort, redness, itching, and blurred vision, making contact lens wear difficult for those affected. Seeking professional help is crucial to addressing these challenges and finding suitable solutions.

An optometrist is well-versed in the complexities of dry eye syndrome. During a comprehensive eye exam, she will assess the health of your eyes and conduct a thorough evaluation of your dry eye condition, which helps determine the compatibility of contact lenses with your specific dry eye needs.

Specialty contact lenses designed for dry eyes can offer significant benefits as these lenses are made from moisture-retaining materials and have increased oxygen permeability, promoting comfort and minimizing dryness during wear. Your optometrist will provide recommendations on the most suitable contact lens type and brand based on your unique condition and visual requirements.

The customized fitting process is essential to ensuring optimal comfort and vision, and your optometrist will take accurate measurements of your eye parameters and consider factors such as tear film assessment and overall comfort. Through a trial period, we will closely monitor your experience and make any necessary adjustments to achieve the best possible fit and visual clarity.

Education and training are key aspects of successful contact lens wear with dry eyes, and your eye doctor will provide guidance on proper handling and care of contact lenses to minimize dry eye symptoms. We will also share hygiene practices and tips for managing dry eyes while wearing contact lenses. By following these recommendations, you can enjoy improved comfort and overall eye health.

In addition to contact lenses, our optometrist may recommend supplemental lubricating eye drops or gels to alleviate dry eye symptoms. In some cases, prescription medications for dry eye management or lifestyle changes may also be suggested to promote better eye health. Dry eyes can be caused by various factors, including aging, environmental conditions, hormonal changes, certain medications, prolonged screen time, and underlying medical conditions.