Skip to main content

Your Dry Eye Syndrome Experts in Potomac

Healthy eyes and clear vision rely significantly on the presence of quality tears.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

Home » Eye Care Services » Dry Eye Treatment

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a prevalent eye condition characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, leading to symptoms like eye discomfort, redness, and blurred vision. It is not merely an inconvenience; chronic dry eye can significantly impact vision and quality of life.

what is dry eye 2a.jpg
what is dry eye 1.jpg

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye syndrome manifests through various symptoms, which can range from mild discomfort to severe irritation:

  • Persistent dryness or a gritty sensation in the eyes
  • Feelings of itchiness or burning
  • Redness and inflammation of the eyes
  • Occasional blurred vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Watery eyes, as a reflex to the dryness
What Are Tears Made Of?

Tears are a complex mixture of water, oils, mucus, antibodies, and proteins. This unique composition keeps the eyes hydrated, nourished, and protected against external elements and infections.

Who Can Get Dry Eye Syndrome?

While dry eye syndrome can affect a diverse range of individuals, certain factors can raise a person’s risk of developing it.

Risk Factors for Dry Eye

Medical Conditions

Various medical conditions can influence the development of dry eyes, including: 

  • lupus and Sjögren's syndrome
  • diabetes
  • thyroid disorders
  • inflammatory diseases like arthritis.

Conditions directly affecting the eyes, such as blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction, are very common contributors.

Medications

Medications often have potential side effects, including the risk of contributing to dry eye syndrome. Several types of medications are known to potentially cause this condition, such as:

  • Antidepressants
  • Antihistamines
  • Medications for anxiety
  • Birth control pills
  • Blood pressure medications
  • Decongestants

If you're taking any of these and noticing dry eye symptoms, a consultation with one of our eye doctors can provide insights into alternative treatment options.

Environmental Factors

Environmental conditions play a crucial role in tear evaporation. Prolonged exposure to dry, windy climates, air conditioning, heating, or smoke can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Additionally, extended use of computers and other digital devices can reduce blinking frequency, leading to increased tear evaporation.

Gender

Women are more prone to dry eye syndrome, particularly during hormonal changes such as pregnancy, use of oral contraceptives, and menopause.

Age

The incidence of dry eye syndrome increases with age, especially among people over 50 years old. Age-related changes in tear composition and eyelid anatomy contribute to this increased risk.

who is at risk for dry eyes 3.jpg
medications for dry eyes 1.jpg

Dry Eye Treatment in Potomac, Maryland

We offer comprehensive treatments for dry eye syndrome, focusing on long-lasting relief. Our approach blends traditional and advanced therapies to alleviate symptoms and enhance eye health.

Tailored care begins with a thorough evaluation, followed by regular follow-ups to fine-tune treatment strategies for each individual's needs.

Tailored Dry Eye Treatment Strategies at Wink Eyecare Boutique

For milder cases, treatments may include over-the-counter artificial tears or prescription eye drops to lubricate and reduce eye inflammation.

In more severe cases, advanced treatments are considered. Each of these treatments offers unique benefits and can be tailored to your dry eye syndrome's specific needs and severity.

Punctal Plugs for Dry Eye

Punctal plugs are a simple yet effective solution for managing dry eye syndrome. They are tiny, biocompatible devices inserted into the tear ducts (puncta) of your eyes. The primary function of these plugs is to slow down or block the drainage of tears, thereby maintaining moisture on the eye's surface for a more extended period. This method is particularly beneficial for those whose dry eye syndrome is primarily due to rapid tear evaporation. The procedure is minimally invasive, quick, and can offer immediate relief by preserving the natural tears, thereby enhancing eye comfort.

Scleral Lenses for Continuous Lubrication

Scleral lenses represent a breakthrough in contact lens technology, particularly for dry eye management. Unlike regular contact lenses, scleral lenses are larger, covering the entire corneal surface and resting on the sclera (the white part of the eye). This design creates a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea. This reservoir acts like a continuous, soothing bath of moisture for people suffering from dry eye syndrome, keeping the eyes lubricated throughout the day. Scleral lenses improve comfort and protect the cornea from exposure and abrasion, making them a valuable option for severe dry eye cases.

Dry Eye Treatment
IPL and LLLT

Advanced Dry Eye Therapies: IPL and LLLT

Intense pulsed light therapy (IPL) and low-level light therapy (LLLT) are advanced treatments that target the underlying causes of dry eye syndrome.

Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL)

IPL is a revolutionary approach that uses specific wavelengths of light to reduce inflammation and target the small blood vessels around the eyelids, often involved in dry eye conditions. This therapy also helps to unblock the meibomian glands, responsible for producing the oils that form part of the tear film. By restoring the normal function of these glands, IPL can alleviate the symptoms of dry eye and lead to long-term relief.

Low-level light therapy (LLLT)

LLLT is a gentle yet effective treatment that utilizes specific wavelengths of light to stimulate the meibomian glands, encouraging them to produce more oils and improve the quality of the tear film. Similar to IPL, the application of Marco LLT masks works by gently warming the eyelid area, which helps to unclog the meibomian glands and promote the release of oils. 

This process not only alleviates the symptoms of dry eye but can also reduce inflammation associated with conditions like styes and chalazion. The light therapy is designed to be painless and stress-free, providing a comfortable and soothing treatment experience.

Why Choose Wink Eyecare Boutique for Dry Eye Management?

Wink Eyecare Boutique is dedicated to offering the latest and most effective treatments for dry eye syndrome. Our expert team, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and personalized care plans, ensures each patient receives the best treatment for their condition

Don't let dry eye syndrome diminish your quality of life. Contact us to schedule your comprehensive dry eye assessment at Wink Eyecare Boutique today!

Book Your Dry Eye Consultation
Office
  • Get answers from an eye doctor in Potomac, Maryland to commonly asked questions about dry eye syndrome.
  • Dry eyes can creep up depending on a variety of factors, so taking an additional step in your nutrition by choosing specific foods or supplements will ensure better results & less dryness.
  • The NuLids System is the first dry eye medical device system designed for home use! It is clinically proven to improve tear film quality and patient comfort between office visits.
  • Dry eye disease is generally associated with inflammation, and of the dry eye treatments available, understanding inflammation is key for treatment.

logo

Wink is open!

We will be taking extra precautionary measures to protect the health of both you and our staff, including:

  • Enhanced cleaning and disinfection of all surfaces
  • COVID-19 screening of all customers and staff
  • Temperature checks at the office door
  • Masks will be required
  • Added Merv 13 Air Filters

  • Disinfecting process for all frames
  • Added UV lights in the Ductwork for air sterilization
  • Contact lens & eyeglass ordering with direct patient shipment or curbside delivery

Hours | M-F 10am-6pm | Saturday 10am-4pm

301-545-1111 | drcohn@wink.net

PLEASE STAY HEALTHY AND SAFE