Dry Eye Treatments in Hazleton
Are your eyes feeling dry or irritated? Is your vision sometimes blurry, or your eyes watery? If any of this sounds familiar, you may suffer from dry eye syndrome, a common eye condition affecting millions. We provide personalized dry eye treatments in Hazleton to relieve discomfort and restore moisture to your eyes.
Dry Eye Syndrome Explained
This common eye condition occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears to stay lubricated. This can happen due to:
- Decreased tear production: Your eyes don’t make enough natural tears.
- Poor tear quality: The tear film lacks essential oil layers, causing quick evaporation.
- Blocked oil glands: Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) prevents proper lubrication.
What Causes Dry Eye?
- Aging: Tear production naturally decreases over time.
- Screen time: Staring at computers and phones reduces blinking.
- Contact lenses: Extended wear can contribute to dryness.
- Medical conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases can lead to dry eye.
- Environmental factors: Wind, air conditioning, heating, and dry climates.
Without treatment, dry eye can become chronic, leading to discomfort, vision problems, and even corneal damage
Signs You May Have Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms can range from mild irritation to constant discomfort that affects daily activities.
- Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
- Redness and irritation that won’t go away
- Blurry vision that improves with blinking
- Feeling like something is in your eye (gritty sensation)
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Sensitivity to light
- Watery eyes (as your body tries to compensate for the dryness)
Treat Dry Eye with Dr. Paul R. Montague
At our Hazleton eye clinic, Dr. Paul tailors dry eye treatments based on your specific symptoms and needs.
Punctal Plugs
- Small, biocompatible plugs placed in tear ducts to slow tear drainage.
- It helps keep moisture in the eyes longer to reduce dryness.
- A quick, painless procedure with long-lasting relief.
Medicated Eye Drops and Prescription Treatments
- Prescription eye drops like Restasis® or Xiidra® improve natural tear production.
- Steroid drops reduce inflammation and irritation in severe cases.
Meibomian Gland Expression
- Unclogs blocked oil glands to improve tear quality.
- Reduces irritation and discomfort caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
- Performed in-office for immediate relief.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Blinking exercises and the 20-20-20 rule for screen users.
- Omega-3 supplements to promote healthier tear production.
- Using a humidifier or warm compresses to keep eyes moisturized.
FAQs About Dry Eye
Are dry eyes serious?
Yes. If left untreated, chronic dry eye can lead to vision problems, corneal damage, and ongoing discomfort. Seeking treatment from an eye doctor is the best way to prevent long-term complications.
Can dry eye be cured?
While there’s no permanent cure, effective treatments reduce symptoms and improve comfort for long-term relief.
What’s the best treatment for dry eye?
Dr. Paul will evaluate your condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan, whether that’s medicated drops, punctal plugs, or meibomian gland expression.
Can screen time cause dry eye?
Yes! Staring at screens reduces blinking, leading to increased tear evaporation. Taking breaks and blinking more often helps reduce eye strain and dryness.
Relief is Just a Visit Away
You don’t have to live with dry, irritated eyes! Whether you need a quick solution or a long-term treatment plan, Dr. Paul provides expert care to bring you lasting relief.
Schedule an appointment or stop by—walk-ins are always welcome!