Usually during fall, allergy sufferers rejoice because they can settle back into regular contact lens wear. However, not everyone is that lucky. When the leaves begin to change and the weather cools down, ocular dryness or dry eye symptoms set in. Cool, dry weather coupled with heat from home furnaces can lead to dry eye symptoms rarely experienced in the warmer, more humid summer months.
Patients usually notice dry eye when they first wake up and before they go to sleep at night. It is very common for patients to feel a sandy, gritty feeling in their eyes.
A relatively easy fix for dry eyes is the use of over the counter artificial tears. Using artificial teardrops before you go to sleep and after you wake up typically provides patients with the relief they need.
In some cases, artificial tears are not enough and your dry eye symptoms may not just be weather based but may be a chronic or even a progressive condition. If this is the case then a qualified optometrist or ophthalmologist should manage your condition. When your condition is managed by an eye doctor they will have a variety of prescription eye medications that may be appropriate. Additionally, it may be necessary to have a punctual plug inserted.
If you are looking to be evaluated for dry eye to gain some relief, Dr. Vanessa Mills at Providence Eye & Laser Specialists is currently accepting new patients. Contact us today if artificial tears do not relieve your dry eye symptoms. Our eye care specialists will discuss alternative dry eye treatment options, so you can get relief quickly.
