Dry Eye Examinations

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone can develop dry eye syndrome. However, certain factors can increase your risk of developing this condition, including:

• Age: As you get older, your eye produces fewer tears, just like your skin gets dryer as we put those candles on the birthday cake.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can cause dry eyes, such as: wearing contact lenses, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorder, vitamin A deficiency, and allergic eye disease.
• Medications: Certain medications list dry eye as a side effect. These include decongestants, antihistamines, high blood pressure medication, birth control, acne medication, and hormone replacement therapy.
• Sex: Women are more prone to dry eyes than men.
• Surgery: You are more at risk of dry eye syndrome during the recovery process post-eye surgery.

What Are the Symptoms of Dry Eyes?

Dry eye syndrome has a wide range of symptoms. We often see patients suffering from:

• Stinging
• Burning
• Mucus in the eyes
• Redness of the eyes and lids
• Eye crusting
• Sensitivity to light
• Trouble seeing at night
• Blurry vision or fluctuating vision
• Eye fatigue
• Trouble wearing contacts

How Is Dry Eye Syndrome Diagnosed?

Dry eye syndrome can be diagnosed during your visit. A series of tests are performed during your Dry Eye Evaluation such as meibography, fluorescein staining, tear break up time and many more things. You simply call the office and say you would like a dry eye exam.

Treatment for Dry Eyes

At our clinic, we go beyond artificial tears to treat the underlying cause of dry eye. Treating with artificial tears has been the standard for decades. The problem with this approach is it does not target the true problem. It’s like going to the dentist for a cavity and being treated with ibuprofen or something similar. To help alleviate symptoms the root cause must be treated. We offer a range of advanced, in-office and at-home treatments tailored to your specific condition.

1. Treating Blocked Oil Glands (MGD) and inflammation

The most common cause of dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), where the oil glands in your eyelids become clogged. These oils are essential to keep your tears from evaporating too quickly.

Our treatments focus on restoring normal oil flow:

• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) – Reduces inflammation and improves gland function for long-term relief
• LipiFlow® – Uses heat and gentle pressure to open blocked glands and restore healthy oil production
• Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) with expression– Stimulates the glands and supports healing through light-based therapy
• Warm compress

Inflammation is another key factor in dry eye and can interfere with your eyes’ ability to produce healthy, stable tears. In more advanced cases, treatment may also include the following in addition to the therapies above:

• Prescription anti-inflammatory eye drops (such as cyclosporine or similar medications)
• Short-term steroid drops when needed to calm flare-ups
• Nutritional support like omega-3 supplements to improve tear quality

2. Managing Bacteria & Eyelid Health

Bacteria and debris along the eyelids can worsen irritation and contribute to gland blockage. This is called Blepharitis.

Our approach includes:

• Professional in-office lid treatments (such as ZEST or NuLids) to remove buildup
• Medical-grade eyelid hygiene solutions to keep lids clean and healthy
• Targeted medications when needed to control bacterial overgrowth

3. Improving Tear Quality & Stability

Healthy tears require the right balance of water, oil, and mucous layers.

We help stabilize your tear film with:

• Preservative-free artificial tears (customized to your specific needs)
• Oil-based drops for patients with evaporative dry eye
• Hydration and lifestyle recommendations to support natural tear production

4. Protecting Your Eyes (Day & Night)

Dry eye can worsen due to environmental exposure, incomplete eyelid closure, CPAP machines, fans—especially during sleep.

We help protect your eyes with:

• Nighttime ointments or gels for overnight lubrication
• Moisture goggles or sleep masks for added protection
• Environmental adjustments like reducing airflow from fans or vents

5. Lifestyle & Habit Optimization

Daily habits play a big role in dry eye symptoms. Just like cleaning your teeth is important, taking care of your eyes is just as important.

We guide patients on:

• Proper blinking techniques (especially during screen use)
• The 20-20-20 rule to reduce digital eye strain
• Diet and lifestyle factors that may contribute to inflammation

Dry eye is a chronic condition, but with the right approach, it can be effectively managed and significantly improved.

If you’re dealing with burning, irritation, or fluctuating vision, don’t wait— let’s build a personalized treatment plan for you.