Dry Eye Specialist
-
- Tweet
Stevens Eye Care
Clayton Stevens, MD
Comprehensive Ophthalmologist located in Biloxi, MS
Dry eyes are extremely uncomfortable and can interfere with your daily life, but this condition is very treatable. Expert ophthalmologist Clayton Stevens, MD of Stevens Eye Care in Biloxi, Mississippi, helps you relieve symptoms of dry eyes and address any underlying cause. Call the office today or book an appointment online to request an appointment at any time.
Dry Eye Q&A
What causes dry eyes?
Dry eyes occur when your tear glands don’t make enough moisture. It can also occur when your tears evaporate too quickly. Even those with dry eyes who do produce tears find them to be of poor quality and unable to balance your natural, necessary fluid levels.
Dry eyes can occur because of certain medical conditions. Additional causes include:
- Medications, such as beta-blockers, diuretics, antihistamines, or sleeping pills
- Extended exposure to smoke or a dry environment
- Contact lenses
- Eye surgeries, such as LASIK
- Autoimmune conditions including lupus and Sjögren’s syndrome
Older adults are more likely to develop dry eyes. Women are also at greater risk because of estrogen fluctuations during menopause or pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of dry eyes?
Of course, dry eyes are a symptom. Often this causes burning or stinging in your eyes. You may also suffer from:
- Vision problems at night
- Red and sore eyelids
- Discomfort while wearing contacts
- Light sensitivity
Dry eyes don’t always have to feel dehydrated. You may experience alternating periods of great wateriness and dryness, indicating a problem with tear production.
How are dry eyes treated?
Once Dr. Stevens identifies the underlying cause of your dry eye syndrome, he can offer treatments that help increase your tear production. He’ll also provide you with treatments to improve the quality of any tears you do produce and heal associated inflammation.
Artificial tears help many patients with mild dry eyes. Prescription level drops can help stimulate tear production in more extreme circumstances. If you have inflammation that’s causing your dry eyes, he may prescribe specific anti-inflammatory drugs. At home, you should make changes to your diet to include more omega-3 fatty acids and use over-the-counter ointments for some relief, too. If you have to be outside in the sun or wind, use sunglasses and a brimmed hat to offer some protection.
In severe cases of dry eyes, Dr. Stevens offers tear duct plugs that help keep your tears from draining out, so your eyes retain more moisture.
If you suffer the discomfort and frustration associated with dry eyes, contact Stevens Eye Care. Make an appointment on this website, or call the office today.
