Dry Eye Treatment
Dry Eye Treatments
Dry eye is a common condition that can impact your comfort, vision, and overall quality of life. At Casey Optical Co., Dr. Christine Kniffen and our team provide a comprehensive approach to dry eye care by combining thorough diagnostics with advanced and personalized treatments. Whether your symptoms are occasional or ongoing, we are committed to helping you find lasting relief and restore your eye health with compassionate, state-of-the-art care.
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye occurs when your eyes either do not produce enough tears or the quality of your tears is poor, leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. Tears are essential for keeping the surface of your eyes healthy, clear, and comfortable. When the tear film becomes unstable, whether due to reduced tear production or problems with the oil layer, your eyes can feel gritty, tired, and uncomfortable. Over time, if left untreated, dry eye can interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving, or using a computer, and it may even begin to affect your vision.
Common Causes of Dry Eye
Dry eye can be triggered by a variety of factors, and often, multiple causes are at play:
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): Blocked oil glands along the eyelid margins that disrupt tear film stability.
Blepharitis: Chronic inflammation of the eyelids that contributes to dry, gritty sensations.
Eye Surgery: Procedures like LASIK or cataract surgery can alter tear production and surface sensitivity.
Contact Lens Use: Long-term wear can reduce tear volume and irritate the ocular surface.
Allergies: Environmental allergens can cause inflammation and disrupt the tear film.
Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age, making older adults more prone to dry eye.
Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and others can reduce tear production
Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome can interfere with tear production and eye health.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be dealing with dry eye:
Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in the eyes
Redness or irritation
Sensitivity to light
Blurred vision that fluctuates
A feeling of something “in the eye”
Excessive tearing
How Dry Eye Is Diagnosed
Dr. Kniffen takes a thorough, personalized approach to diagnosing dry eye by focusing on identifying its root cause. During your exam, she evaluates several key factors, including tear volume and quality, the function of your oil glands (particularly for signs of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction), eyelid health and inflammation, environmental and lifestyle contributors, and your specific symptoms. By pinpointing the underlying cause, Dr. Kniffen is able to create a targeted and effective treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Personalized Treatment Options
Depending on the underlying cause, your treatment may include:
Eyelid Hygiene: Daily cleansing of the eyelids can help manage blepharitis and MGD.
Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter or prescription lubricating drops can provide symptom relief.
Prescription Eye Drops: Medications can reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
Nutritional Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids can improve tear quality and support overall eye health.
Punctal Plugs: These tiny inserts block tear drainage channels, helping to retain moisture on the eye’s surface.
Our Advanced Technology: Inmode Envision & Morpheus 8
Envision IPL is an advanced treatment that uses Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology to address Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. IPL works by delivering gentle pulses of light to the skin around the eyes, which reduces inflammation, melts blockages in the glands, and stimulates healthy oil flow. By restoring proper function to these glands, IPL helps improve tear stability and provides long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms. The treatment is non-invasive, safe, and effective, making it an excellent option for patients seeking a targeted solution to chronic dry eye.
Morpheus 8 is a leading radiofrequency (RF) treatment that enhances both skin health and underlying tissue function. The radiofrequency energy penetrates deep into the tissue, gently heating it to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. This process helps restore proper function to the oil glands, allowing for a more stable and healthy tear film. By improving gland performance and reducing inflammation, Morpheus 8 also contributes to long-term relief from dry eye symptoms while also rejuvenating the skin around the eyes.
Expert Dry Eye Care in Albuquerque
At Casey Optical Co., Dr. Kniffen and our team are committed to identifying the root cause of your symptoms and delivering personalized, effective treatment using the latest technology. Whether you're struggling with irritation, blurred vision, or chronic discomfort, we’re here to help you see and feel your best.
Schedule your dry eye evaluation today and take the first step toward lasting relief.
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