We use our eyes all day long, but we rarely think of them—unless they’re uncomfortable, and then they’re all we think about. Adults might turn to redness-relieving eye drops, while kids often rub their eyes. But neither strategy tackles the true cause of tired, scratchy eyes.
Dry eye is a chronic, common, and uncomfortable condition, impacting more than 16 million Americans. Not only is it irritating, but it can really put a damper on your daily activities. Dry eyes can decrease your quality of life and hinder productivity.
But relief is available! Book an exam today for a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose your dry eye symptoms. If left untreated, dry eye can lead to long-term infections and eye damage down the road. Any time your eyes are uncomfortable, it’s best to pay us a visit and rule out more problematic conditions.
Request AppointmentSymptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms generally occur in both eyes at the same time and can include:
- Stinging or burning
- Gritty or scratchy feeling
- Foreign body sensation
- Red or watery eyes
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye fatigue
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Discomfort when wearing contacts
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book your appointment to explore dry eye treatment options today.
Request AppointmentWhat Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry is exactly what it sounds like—it occurs when your eyes aren’t producing enough lubrication to keep them moist and comfortable.
There are 2 main types of dry eye. The first—and least common—occurs when the eyes simply don’t produce enough tears. The second occurs when the tears are of poor quality.
Decreased Tear Production
Reasons for decreased tear production are varied and might include:
- Contact lens wear
- Normal aging
- Medications such as antihistamines or antidepressants
- Medical conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s Syndrome
- Recent laser vision correction surgery
Poor-Quality Tears
Good-quality tears depend on a balanced and effective tear film. The tear film is made up of 3 layers—a mucus layer to spread the tears over the surface of the eye, a water layer to hydrate the eye, and an oil layer to keep the water from evaporating too quickly. If there’s an imbalance in the tear film, dry eye syndrome can result.
The tiny glands along the top and bottom edges of the eyelids, called the meibomian glands are responsible for producing the oil layer of your tear film. Blockages in these glands can cause a reduction in the amount of oil produced, leading to dry eyes.
When we diagnose your dry eye syndrome, we’ll also look at the condition of your meibomian glands and recommend treatment options if they’re not functioning properly.
Finding Relief From Dry Eyes
No matter the cause of your dry eye, relief is available! We offer customized treatment options tailored to your unique needs. Start on the path to clear, comfortable vision today!
Request AppointmentOur Location
Our Address
- 2398 5th Avenue, Suite 105
- Belle Fourche, SD 57717
Contact Us
- Phone: 605-723-3937
- Email: [email protected]
Clinic Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
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Bad Habits: Aging Your Eyes
Eye Health and DiseasesDo you feel like your eyes have aged? Some bad habits can make your eyes appear more aged than they are. The best way to preserve your eye health and appearance is to cut these bad habits out of your life!bits out of your life! Rubbing Your Eyes There are tiny blood vessels under their […]
What Is Dry Eye?
Eye Health and DiseasesDry eye syndrome is caused by a chronic lack of moisture and lubrication of the eyes. Your eye’s tears keep the surface of the eye moist and lubricated, as well as washing away dust, debris, and other microorganisms. What causes dry eye? Typically dry eye occurs when there is a problem with your tears. Tears […]
Puffy Eyes and Dark Circles
Ordinary swelling around the eyes is due to an excessive accumulation of fluids in the surrounding skin tissue. Puffy eyes and dark circles can occur for many reasons, and a visit to your eye doctor can usually detect the underlying cause behind your puffy eyes. Causes The skin around your eyes is the thinnest skin […]
Bad Habits: Aging Your Eyes
Do you feel like your eyes have aged? Some bad habits can make your eyes appear more aged than they are. The best way to preserve your eye health and appearance is to cut these bad habits out of your life!bits out of your life! Rubbing Your Eyes There are tiny blood vessels under their […]
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye syndrome is caused by a chronic lack of moisture and lubrication of the eyes. Your eye’s tears keep the surface of the eye moist and lubricated, as well as washing away dust, debris, and other microorganisms. What causes dry eye? Typically dry eye occurs when there is a problem with your tears. Tears […]
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Redwater Eye Care
- 2398 5th Avenue, Suite 105
- Belle Fourche, SD 57717
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P: 605-723-3937
[email protected]