Dry Eye in Glendale, CA 91203

Dry Eye Q&A

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye causes the eyes to be unable to create enough tears to form a normal healthy tear film. People with dry eye will often have not only eye dryness, but also redness and inflammation. Many people experience significant discomfort with dry eye, and sensitivity to light is common. The condition typically won’t resolve on its own, so patients must seek treatments to avoid more serious complications.

Why Does Dry Eye Happen?

Dry eye happens for several different possible reasons. Advanced age, regular contact lens usage, eye disease, certain medication, and environmental factors may all contribute to the development of dry eye.

How is Dry Eye Treated?

The treatment for dry eye depends on the individual and on the severity of the condition. Some people benefit from the use of a special prescription formula that is designed to stimulate tear production. Most dry eye treatments are topical, but sometimes oral medications may be prescribed as well.

What Are Entropion and Ectropion?

When the eyelid is inverted, making the eyelashes connect constantly with the eyeball, a patient has entropion. When the eyelid is positioned so that it is turned outward, with the edge not connecting with the eyeball, a person has ectropion. The job of the eyelids is to protect the eyes from damage and to maintain moisture by preventing the evaporation of tears. Both of these conditions can prevent the eyelids from performing their function properly. Entropion and ectropion are seen most often in older people, due to the increasing laxity of tissue over time. These conditions may also be caused by an infection, post-surgical complications, or sudden injury. People who suffer from blepharospasm may also be more likely to suffer from entropion or ectropion. Both of these conditions can be treated either non-surgically (with the use of artificial tears) or by a surgical procedure.