Dry Eye Treatment in Hartford, CT

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when there is a decrease in the quantity and/or quality of natural tears. Typically, dry eye results because of a decrease in tear production or an increase in tear evaporation. Some people can have both mechanisms affected.

Some Symptoms of Dry Eye:

• Itching
• Burning or stinging
• Redness
• Blurred vision that improves with blinking
• Excessive tearing Increased discomfort after prolonged reading or computer use

Dry Eye Causes:

There are many factors that contribute to dry eye and often times people may have several causes. At Solinsky EyeCare we will identify the factors that are contributing to your dry eye, which may include:

• Increasing age
• Certain diseases, like Sjogrens, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Diabetes and Thyroid conditions
• Hormonal changes experienced during pregnancy as well as peri and post menopause
• Medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, oral contraceptives and some heart medications
• Blepharitis as well as Rosacea of the face
• Allergies
• Low humidity environments such as dry, windy conditions, hot or cold climates, indoor heating or air conditioning
• Irritants such as smoke or dust
• Infrequent or incomplete blinking as well as incomplete lid closure at night while sleeping
• Eye surgery
• Glaucoma drops

What should I do if my doctor diagnoses Dry Eye Disease?

• Be honest and share your story. We will listen!
• In mild cases, using artificial tears may be helpful. It’s best to follow up with our office to ensure that all is well.
• In progressing cases where you feel symptoms and we see eye signs, our trained Ophthalmologists and Optometrist will create a customized treatment plan that may include medicated drops such as Restasis and Xiidra along with many other technologically advanced procedures like LipiFlow, PROKERA, or short/long term drainage inserts.
• Reduce or limit electronic device screen time for both adults and children.
• Wear glasses/sunglasses when outside to reduce wind exposure.
• When wearing makeup, avoid waterproof mascara and eyeliner as they contain pine tar/retinol that can irritate the eyes.
• If you smoke, make an attempt to quit for yourself and those around you.
• Switch to single use daily contact lenses.
• Use a humidifier at home.
• Use the front defroster/floor setting in your car to reduce forced air exposure to your eyes.

Solinsky EyeCare has 11 Convenient Locations Throughout the Hartford Area

If you are interested in learning more about Dry Eye Disease, please call our office to schedule your appointment.