Ask the Eye Doctor

ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABOUT DRY EYE!

WHAT IS DRY EYE?

Dry eye is a condition in which there is an insufficient production of tears, or the tears produced are of poor quality, causing eye discomfort and vision problems.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF DRY EYE?

Common symptoms of dry eye include: burning, itching, redness, stinging, gritty feeling in the eye, blurred/fluctuating vision, and sensitivity to light.

WHAT CAUSES DRY EYE?

Dry eye can be caused by several factors, including: aging, certain medications, medical conditions (such as autoimmune disorders), and environmental factors (such as wind, dry air, or prolonged computer use).

HOW IS DRY EYE DIAGNOSED?

The diagnosis of dry eye begins with a comprehensive eye examination and may require additional tests to measure tear production and tear film quality. These tests can include special scans and pictures that help the doctor evaluate how your tears interact with the surface of your eye as well as evaluating and monitoring the health of the oil glands that reside inside your eyelids (meibomian glands). These glands are essential to protecting your tear layer by stopping your tears from evaporating between blinks.

HOW IS DRY EYE TREATED?

Treatment for dry eye depends on the underlying cause and may include artificial tears, warm compresses, lid hygiene, dietary changes, supplements and prescription medications. In some cases, punctal plugs may be recommended to reduce tear drainage and increase tear retention on the surface of the eye. Special contacts can be used to help treat dry eyes and allow you to be glasses free!

CAN DRY EYE BE PREVENTED?

Dry eye can be prevented or managed by taking steps to reduce its risk factors, such as reducing screen time, using a humidifier, dietary support, and wearing protective eyewear in windy or dry conditions.

Do you suffer from dryness or any of the symptoms listed above? Schedule an appointment today for a special dry eye evaluation to see how your dry eyes are affecting your vision and overall ocular health, as well as starting your personalized dry eye treatment plan!

With 33 years of experience, Allendale Eye Care is more than just an optometry office. They are always exploring new ways to expand their knowledge and services for their patients. This refreshing approach to eye care services means that Allendale Eye Care is constantly innovating, learning, and upgrading their services to give dedicated care to their patients. “We are always trying to utilize highest level of diagnostic testing,” says Dr. Patricia Roslund. “We have some of the best technology available for diagnosing eye disease.”

Allendale Eye Care has been designated the "Official Eyecare" of Grand Valley State University Athletics! They conduct the vision performance testing during the annual athletic physicals to ensure our GVSU athletes have optimum vision and help them if any issues occur.

Friendly and Fun!

There is no “fast-food optometry” here at Allendale Eye Care, but rather a cozy, friendly place to ask questions and better understand your eye health. Constantly courteous, the staff is always excited to educate, assist, and be open with their patients for any questions they might have.

“Patients come here and gain that confidence in us, and know that we really do care,” says Dr. Roslund. “That’s why we’ve been successful for over 30 years.” If you need more than just a regular eye appointment, their optometrists also specialize in treating dry eye and can perform emergency eye care for unexpected injuries or damage! Their care is intentional, purposeful, and totally dedicated to their patients - and their community.