Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye is a common condition that affects about 16 million people in the U.S. and can impact tasks like driving and reading. If it is left untreated the condition can lead to infections and even blindness. At Innovative Eye Care in Bakersfield, CA, we provide eye exams to determine an accurate diagnosis and provide treatment that can alleviate your symptoms and preserve your vision.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye can be uncomfortable and even affect your vision. The condition can occur if your eyes don't produce enough tears to keep them lubricated. Some people produce enough tears, but the tears don't have all the necessary ingredients, which can lead to dry eye.

The Importance of Tears

Why are tears important? Tears help keep your eyes clean and protected. When dust or irritants enter your eyes, you tear up immediately, which is your body’s response to eliminating the substances to prevent your eyes from harm. Tears also keep your eyes lubricated and allow your eyes and eyelids to move freely. The tears are also essential to your vision, as they help your eyes reflect light properly.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye can cause various symptoms. One common symptom of dry eye is a stinging or burning sensation. You may also feel like you have something in your eye since your eyes your eyes are too dry. Along with that, you might have eye irritation and redness, sensitivity to light, and blurry vision. The condition can also result in watery eyes because your eyes are trying to compensate for dryness. In addition, the condition can make it difficult to drive at night or wear contact lenses.

Dry Eye Treatment

Our optometrist can recommend a few different treatments for dry eye, depending on the root cause of your condition and your specific needs. Dry eye syndrome can typically be treated with eye drops. If your condition is mild, you can try over the counter artificial tear eyedrops. If the eye drops are not affective, we will work closely with you to determine a suitable treatment. You treatment may include prescription eye drops, medications, and punctual plugs.

Contact us for an Appointment Today

Dry eye can be uncomfortable and affect your vision. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, contact Innovative Eye Care in Bakersfield, CA, at (661) 213-3310 today. We are happy to tell you about the treatments that we provide and set you up with an appointment!