As we age, many of us experience dry eyes at least once, often due to environmental factors, allergies, or hormonal changes. However, when dry eyes become a recurring or chronic issue, it’s essential to seek professional help. Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD, a neuro-optometrist and founder of the Neuro-Visual Performance Institute in Versailles, Kentucky, offers a specialized Dry Eye Clinic designed to diagnose and treat chronic dry eyes, helping patients manage the discomfort effectively.
What Causes Chronic Dry Eyes?
Dry eyes occur when your eyes stop producing enough tears to keep them properly lubricated. This is often due to a decrease in the production of a specific type of tears responsible for moisture. Dr. Graebe explains that our eyes generate two kinds of tears: emotional tears, which flow when we cry, and lubrication tears, which keep our eyes moist throughout the day. When the production of these lubrication tears decreases, chronic dry eyes result.
There are several reasons why your eyes may stop producing sufficient lubrication tears. In women, one of the most common causes is hormonal changes associated with menopause and peri-menopause. Aging in general can also lead to dry eyes. Additionally, factors such as excessive computer use, environmental elements like wind, and certain medications—both over-the-counter and prescription—can contribute to the condition.
How Dry Eyes Impact Daily Life
Living with chronic dry eyes can significantly affect your daily comfort and quality of life. People with this condition often experience a persistent feeling of irritation, burning, or even blurred vision. These symptoms can worsen with prolonged computer or screen use, which is common in today’s digital world.
Furthermore, if left untreated, chronic dry eyes can lead to more severe eye problems, including infections or damage to the eye’s surface. For this reason, early intervention and professional treatment are crucial.
Treatment Options for Chronic Dry Eyes
Dr. Graebe’s Dry Eye Clinic at the Neuro-Visual Performance Institute offers a variety of treatments to alleviate the symptoms of dry eyes and address the underlying causes. One simple yet effective remedy he recommends is using a lash shampoo. This helps clear tear ducts and eliminate bacteria, providing relief for some patients. For those who wear eye makeup, routine use of lash shampoo is especially important, similar to brushing your teeth to maintain oral health.
In more severe cases, where clogged tear ducts are the primary cause, Dr. Graebe can perform procedures to open them up, restoring proper tear flow. For patients who need more than just physical interventions, anti-inflammatory therapies such as Restasis or topical steroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and increase tear production.
Another way to manage dry eyes is by adjusting your daily habits. For instance, lowering your computer screen can prevent your eyes from being too wide open, which helps retain moisture. Additionally, making a conscious effort to blink more frequently and taking regular breaks during extended screen time can minimize dryness.
For patients who experience dry eyes due to environmental factors like wind or allergies, wearing glasses with side shields or special contact lenses can offer protection and relief.
Conclusion: Find Relief from Chronic Dry Eyes in Versailles and Somerset
If you’ve been dealing with chronic or intermittent dry eyes, it’s important to seek treatment before the problem escalates. At Dr. Graebe’s Neuro-Visual Performance Institute, you can receive personalized care that targets the root of your discomfort. With locations in Versailles serving the greater Lexington area and Somerset, Dr. Graebe FCOVD and his team are committed to helping patients from all over Central and Southern Kentucky find relief from chronic dry eyes.
To schedule an appointment, call us today at 859-879-0089.
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This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.