Irritating, Uncomfortable Eyes
We use our eyes all day long, but we rarely think of them—unless they’re uncomfortable, and then they’re all we think about. Adults might turn to redness-relieving eye drops, while kids often rub their eyes. But neither strategy tackles the true cause of tired, scratchy eyes.
Dry eye is a chronic, common, and uncomfortable condition, impacting more than 16 million Americans. Not only is it irritating, but it can really put a damper on your daily activities. Dry eyes can decrease your quality of life and hinder productivity.
But relief is available! Book an exam today for a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose your dry eye symptoms. If left untreated, dry eye can lead to long-term infections and eye damage down the road. Any time your eyes are uncomfortable, it’s best to pay us a visit and rule out more problematic conditions.
Book AppointmentSymptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms generally occur in both eyes at the same time and can include:
- Stinging or burning
- Gritty or scratchy feeling
- Foreign body sensation
- Red or watery eyes
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye fatigue
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Discomfort when wearing contacts
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book your appointment to explore dry eye treatment options today.
Book AppointmentWhat Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry is exactly what it sounds like—it occurs when your eyes aren’t producing enough lubrication to keep them moist and comfortable.
There are 2 main types of dry eye. The first—and least common—occurs when the eyes simply don’t produce enough tears. The second occurs when the tears are of poor quality.
Decreased Tear Production
Reasons for decreased tear production are varied and might include:
- Contact lens wear
- Normal aging
- Medications such as antihistamines or antidepressants
- Medical conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s Syndrome
- Recent laser vision correction surgery
Poor-Quality Tears
Good-quality tears depend on a balanced and effective tear film. The tear film is made up of 3 layers—a mucus layer to spread the tears over the surface of the eye, a water layer to hydrate the eye, and an oil layer to keep the water from evaporating too quickly. If there’s an imbalance in the tear film, dry eye syndrome can result.
The tiny glands along the top and bottom edges of the eyelids, called the meibomian glands are responsible for producing the oil layer of your tear film. Blockages in these glands can cause a reduction in the amount of oil produced, leading to dry eyes.
When we diagnose your dry eye syndrome, we’ll also look at the condition of your meibomian glands and recommend treatment options if they’re not functioning properly.
Finding Relief From Dry Eyes
No matter the cause of your dry eye, relief is available! We offer customized treatment options tailored to your unique needs. Start on the path to clear, comfortable vision today!
Book Appointment
Our Brands
See Our Brands
Our Google Reviews
Our Testimonials
Our Blogs
5 Myths About Contacts Lenses You Shouldn’t Believe
Contact LensesThinking about giving contact lenses a try but nervous they might not be right for you? Although the only guaranteed way to have a positive experience with contact lenses is to schedule an appointment with one of our eye care professionals, we want to address some of the common myths we hear about wearing contact […]
Dry Eye: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
Eye HealthWhat Is Dry Eye? A continued lack of lubrication and moisture within the eye causes symptoms categorized as dry eye syndrome. The lack of tears and moisture to keep the surface of the eye lubricated, as well as wash away debris and dust, can cause eye discomfort and affect your vision. Symptoms Burning Itchy Aching […]
Cataracts: Cause, Symptoms, & Treatment
Eye HealthCataracts affect about 24 million Americans and are the leading cause of blindness in the world.* Cataracts are a natural part of aging but should be addressed as they start to affect your vision. If you are over the age of 40, we recommend scheduling a yearly comprehensive eye exam to detect cataracts as they […]
5 Myths About Contacts Lenses You Shouldn’t Believe
Thinking about giving contact lenses a try but nervous they might not be right for you? Although the only guaranteed way to have a positive experience with contact lenses is to schedule an appointment with one of our eye care professionals, we want to address some of the common myths we hear about wearing contact […]
Dry Eye: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
What Is Dry Eye? A continued lack of lubrication and moisture within the eye causes symptoms categorized as dry eye syndrome. The lack of tears and moisture to keep the surface of the eye lubricated, as well as wash away debris and dust, can cause eye discomfort and affect your vision. Symptoms Burning Itchy Aching […]
Cataracts: Cause, Symptoms, & Treatment
Cataracts affect about 24 million Americans and are the leading cause of blindness in the world.* Cataracts are a natural part of aging but should be addressed as they start to affect your vision. If you are over the age of 40, we recommend scheduling a yearly comprehensive eye exam to detect cataracts as they […]
-
AICO Optical
- 10301 Dawson's Creek Blvd Suite A
- Fort Wayne, IN 46825
-
P: 260 489 3996
[email protected]