Dealing with dry eyes on a frequent basis can interfere with your normal routine. The discomfort that this condition causes can make it harder to do everyday activities, such as reading. Treatment for dry eyes is available, but the option that works best for you will depend on what is causing this condition. Find out more about dry eye testing and treatment in North Syracuse.

Diagnostic Tests for Dry Eyes

When you see an eye doctor in North Syracuse for dry eyes, you can expect to have tests done to determine the underlying cause. Dry eyes can occur due to an inadequate amount of tears, tears that dry up or evaporate too quickly or other problems with your eyes. Eye doctors can do a Schirmer test to measure the amount of tears your glands produce. This test involves putting paper strips below your eyes near your eyelids. Eye doctors can also do other tests to check how quickly your tears evaporate, which involves using special dyes.

Medications for Dry Eyes

If you have mild dryness, you might be able to use over-the-counter eyedrops to ease this condition. For more serious cases of dry eyes, eye doctors sometimes recommend prescription medications. Some of these medications reduce inflammation in the eyelids, while others stimulate tear production. Other medications that are used for dry eyes include eye inserts that help lubricate your eyes and eyedrops that relieve inflammation in your corneas.

Procedures and Other Treatments for Dry Eyes

Certain procedures can help ease dry eye problems, such as closing tear ducts with silicone plugs or removing oil gland blockages. Some patients benefit from undergoing light therapy and having eyelid massages or wearing scleral contact lenses that help eye surfaces stay moist. For other patients, treating an underlying condition, such as an eyelid problem, helps relieve dry eye symptoms. The treatment that you might need for dry eyes will depend on your diagnosis.

If you need diagnostic tests and treatment for dry eyes, please contact McPherson Optometry, PC to set up an appointment at our North Syracuse office.