Dry Eye FAQs | Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic

As much as 48 percent of adults in America are estimated to have periodic issues with dry eye. The issue is twice as likely among women and extremely common for people who are over the age of 50. The discomfort that comes along with dry eyes can affect the quality of your vision and really interfere with your day-to-day life. At the Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic in Mankato and New Ulm, we treat people with dry eyes on a regular basis. Here are a few things you should know. 

What causes people to have issues with dry eye?

Numerous underlying issues can be related to dry eye, some of which can be medically related and others that are related to the environment. A few examples of dry eye causes include: 

• Allergies 
• Taking certain kinds of medications 
• Poor tear quality or production 
• Aging 
• Prior eye surgery 
• Excessive screen time 

What are the typical symptoms of dry eye?

Some of the more typical signs of dry eyes include: 

• Eyes that feel irritated or burn 
• Itching eyes 
• Eye fatigue 
• Redness of the eyes 
• Periods of excessive watering 
• Inability to comfortably wear contact lenses 
• Sensitivity to light 

What is the difference between ordinary dry eye and dry eye syndrome?

Ordinary dry eye can come and go and is more common. Dry eye syndrome, on the other hand, is a more serious and persistent issue that may require treatment from the eye doctor. 

How is dry eye syndrome treated by an optometrist?

Dry eye syndrome can be treated in different ways according to the patient. While symptoms can be similar, the underlying cause of the problem can vary. Therefore, the optometrist will properly diagnose the problem, look at the potential causes, and then recommend a plan of treatment. Some of the typical types of treatment include: 

• Prescription eye drops to encourage tear production 
• Recommended lifestyle changes to combat symptoms 
• Oral medications to combat allergy symptoms contributing to the problem

Can you wear contacts if you have dry eyes?

Even though wearing contact lenses can contribute to dry eyes, there are options available that can help. For example, some people do better with gas-permeable contact lenses that allow airflow through the lens so the eye does not get irritated. If you suspect your contacts are contributing to your dry eye problem, talk to your optometrist about what you may be able to do to help. 

Call Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic Today!

If you have issues with dry eyes, there is no reason to continue to suffer from the problem when an eye doctor can help. Reach out to us at the Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic in Mankato and New Ulm to schedule an appointment to speak to an optometrist about dry eye.