Experiencing dry eye can be more than an inconvenience; it can significantly affect your daily activities and overall eye health. Dry eye, characterized by insufficient lubrication on the eye’s surface, can lead to discomfort, irritation, and in severe cases, vision impairment. While eye surgery Oklahoma offers definitive solutions for complex cases, many effective treatments do not involve surgery.
At BVA, we understand the impact of dry eye and offer multiple solutions to manage and treat the condition. We help our patients find relief and improve their quality of life.
Understanding Dry Eye and Its Causes
Dry eye occurs if the eyes do not produce sufficient tears, if the tears evaporate too quickly, or if your tears have a chemical imbalance. This can result from various factors, including age, environmental conditions, screen use, certain medications, and certain health conditions. Recognizing the underlying cause of dry eye is your doctor’s first step in determining an effective treatment plan.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Dry Eye
At BVA, led by Dr. Britton, we prioritize non-surgical approaches to managing dry eye, reserving surgical options for more severe cases. Here are some of the most effective non-surgical treatments for dry eye:
Artificial Tears and Lubricants
Over-the-counter artificial tears are a first-line treatment for dry eye, providing immediate relief by supplementing the natural tear film. For more severe cases, prescription eye drops that help increase tear production or reduce inflammation in the eye’s surface can be highly effective.
Various eye drop solutions are specifically formulated to treat specific causes of dry eye, so discuss with your cornea doctors Oklahoma which kind is best for you.
Lifestyle and Environmental Changes
Simple adjustments, such as taking frequent screen breaks, using a humidifier, and wearing sunglasses outdoors, may significantly reduce dry eye symptoms.
Contact Lenses
Your contact lenses may be causing dry eyes. To lessen the irritation, your doctor may recommend another type of lens or decrease your wear time.
Medication Changes
Dry eye can be a side effect of certain medications. If this is the case, your doctor may suggest switching medications to prevent your eyes from drying out.
When Eye Surgery Oklahoma Is Necessary for Treating Dry Eye
If non-surgical methods do not provide adequate relief from dry eye, surgery may be recommended by cornea doctors Oklahoma. At BVA, we utilize surgical techniques to address dry eye, including:
Punctal Plugs
Also known as lacrimal plugs, this minimally invasive procedure involves placing tiny, temporary plugs in the tear ducts to prevent tear drainage, which helps keep the eyes lubricated.
Punctal Cautery
This procedure is a more permanent solution than punctal plugs. It involves sealing the tear ducts to retain moisture on the eye’s surface.
While these surgical options are available, they are typically considered after exploring all non-surgical treatments and are tailored to each patient’s specific needs.
Choosing the Right Treatment for Dry Eye
Deciding on the best treatment for dry eye involves a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified ophthalmologist. At BVA, our team of cornea doctors Oklahoma takes the time to get to know each patient’s needs, conducting thorough assessments to identify the underlying causes of dry eye. We discuss all possible treatment options, ensuring our patients are well-informed of their care plan.
Why Choose BVA’s Cornea Doctors Oklahoma for Dry Eye Treatment?
Dry eye can be a persistent and uncomfortable condition. However, it can be effectively managed with the right treatment plan. Whether through non-surgical treatments or eye surgery Oklahoma for more severe cases, BVA is here to guide you through the process. With our comprehensive care and expertise, we are dedicated to helping you achieve Better Vision Ahead.
With a team of experts alongside Dr. Britton, we offer multiple treatments for dry eye, from simple lifestyle adjustments to minimally invasive surgical procedures. Our goal is to address the main causes of dry eye alongside your symptoms, ensuring long-term relief and improved eye health.
For more information about our solutions for dry eye and how we can help, please reach out to us.