Dry Eye And Blepharitis Treatments

Orange County Cataract and Glaucoma

Cataract & Glaucoma Surgeons located in Santa Ana, CA

Dry eyes occurs when your eyes fail to produce adequate lubrication. If your eyes don’t produce enough tears, they become painful, inflamed, and blurry. Dryness can also contribute to blepharitis, inflammation of your eyelids, which can lead to redness, irritation, discomfort, and swelling.

Dry Eye and Blepharitis Treatments Q & A

Common symptoms of dry eyes include:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Eye redness
  • A stinging, burning, or scratching sensation
  • Difficulty wearing contact lenses
  • Difficulty driving at night
  • Blurred vision
  • Eye fatigue
  • Irritated, red, or swollen eyelids

Who is at risk of dry eyes?

Dry eyes affect people of all genders and races, but you’re more likely to experience dry eyes if you're 50 or older, smoke, or wear contacts.

Is there any way to prevent dry eyes?

There’s no way to prevent dry eyes entirely, but there are things you can do to lower your risk. Dr. Chuang and Dr. Bhatt recommend using artificial tears throughout the day, wearing sunglasses outside, and taking frequent breaks if you work in front of a computer all day, take frequent breaks to rest your eyes.

How are dry eyes diagnosed?

To diagnose dry eyes, Dr. Chuang and Dr. Bhatt conduct comprehensive eye exams and ask about your lifestyle and symptoms.

How are dry eyes treated?

Treatment of dry eyes depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause. Dr. Chuang and Dr. Bhatt might recommend:

  • Unclogging oil glands that help keep tears on your eyes
  • Eye drops to control corneal and eyelid inflammation
  • Tear-stimulating medication
  • Punctal plugs to help lubricate your eyes
  • Unblocking your oil glands

TearCare®

At Orange County Cataract and Glaucoma, we are proud to offer TearCare®. TearCare is a dry eye treatment that utilizes targeted heat therapy and manual manipulation of the eyelids to release blocked oils and reduce dry eye symptoms. Studies have shown TearCare to be highly effective. The procedure, performed by Dr. Chuang, entails heating eyelids for 20 minutes with sustained heat before expressing the clogged oil glands.

To further explore treatment for dry eyes, request a consultation at Orange County Cataract and Glaucoma. Book online or call the office today.

Dry Eye and Blepharitis Treatments Videos