When to See an Optometrist for Dry Eye

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Dry eyes can be uncomfortable and make it difficult for you to get your work done. The condition can also arise from a variety of causes, including environmental concerns, underlying health problems, or as a side effect of medication.

Regardless of the cause, dry eye typically presents several symptoms to alert you to its presence. You do not always need to see an optometrist in Pittsburgh, PA, but it is important to know when you should.

Common Dry Eye Symptoms

The following are the most typical symptoms that patients with dry eye report to us at Lappen Eye Care:

  • Blurry vision
  • Burning or stinging sensations
  • Difficulty driving at night
  • Difficulty producing tears
  • Difficulty wearing contacts
  • Discomfort after looking at a phone or computer screen for a short time
  • Eye redness
  • Heavy eyelids
  • Itchy eyes
  • Light sensitivity
  • Watery eyes

Some people can manage these symptoms on their own with simple solutions, such as using artificial tears a few times a day and reducing screen time. Others continue to struggle even after implementing several home remedies. In that situation, patients may need more intensive medical eye care in Pittsburgh, PA.

When Should You Schedule an Optometry Appointment?

Be sure to schedule an appointment with Lappen Eye Care if your dry eye symptoms are not going away after more than a week of using artificial tears or other interventions. We should also see you if you cannot figure out what is causing your eye dryness. Leaving the problem untreated could lead to problems such as prolonged eye pain, eye ulcers, or scars on the surface of your eyes.

Our optometrists always attempt the least invasive treatment method first. One example is using prescription eye drops instead of eye drops you buy at the store. We will explain all available treatment options after diagnosing your dry eye condition.

Dry Eye Syndrome in the Workplace: How to Protect Your Eyes on the Job

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For many, the workplace poses special problems as far as dry eye syndrome. Whether you already have dry eyes or you wish to proactively prevent this condition from developing, there are ways in which you can protect your eyes—and your vision—on the job. If you are at a higher risk for developing dry eye syndrome, it’s especially important to take one or more of the following steps.

Wear Blue Light Blocking Eyeglasses

The blue light emitted from electronic devices like computer screens has been proven to be damaging to the eyes. Your eye doctor in Pittsburgh, PA can provide prescription eyeglasses with built-in blue light blocking as a measure of protection against this risk factor for dry eye syndrome.

Use a Humidifier

Unfortunately, in most office work environments, you’re at the mercy of the temperature and humidity settings in the workplace. If the air happens to be dry, everyone must deal with it. But dry air can exacerbate dry eye syndrome, so consider bringing in your own humidifier for your personal space. It may at least add some moisture to the air around your work desk or cubicle.

Invest in a Blue Light Screen Filter

If you prefer not to wear blue light blocking eyeglasses, then consider investing in a blue light filter that fits over your computer screen. This is a physical device that just slips right over the screen and filters out blue light without any plugging in or hookups. Alternatively, there are some blue light filter apps you could install, although you may need to get your IT department’s permission to install 3rd-party software.

Blink

It’s hard to believe that you would need a reminder to blink, but studies show that when people look at screens they have a tendency to blink less. Blinking fewer times increases dryness of the eyes, so make a point of blinking several times each minute. Also, occasionally squeeze your eyes shut and hold so that moisture has a chance to form.

This condition is more than an inconvenience, and should be treated by a professional. If you think you have dry eye syndrome in Pittsburg, PA, contact us for an appointment.

What’s Causing My Dry Eye and What Can I Do About It?

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Dry eye can be a pain! Dry eyes can ruin your day by making your eyes red, itchy and uncomfortable. Knowing the causes of dry eye and how to get dry eye treatment in the Pittsburgh area can help restore your vision – and eyes – to better health. Here’s what you need to know.

Dry Eye Causes

There are many things that can cause dry eyes, so if you’re suffering from dry eye, you may not immediately understand why. Some common causes of this problem:

  • Certain medications, particularly antihistamines
  • Aging, hormonal changes and menopause
  • Changes in the environment that lead to dry air
  • Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome and certain collagen vascular diseases
  • Seasonal allergies

Dry Eye Treatment

The way that dry eyes are treated depends on the cause. Mild dry eyes can be treated with over-the-counter artificial tears.

Another way to treat your dry eyes is to eliminate the cause. For example, some people experience dry eyes in winter, when the air is less humid. If this is the cause of your dry eyes, using a humidifier in the parts of your home where you spend the most time can help treat the problem.

Ultimately, your eye doctor can help you determine the best treatment for your dry eyes. If needed, your eye doctor can prescribe medications that can help restore the appropriate moisture your eyes.

Get Dry Eye Care at Lappen Eye Care

If you’re suffering from dry eye, contact your eye doctor in the Pittsburgh area. At Lappen Eye Care, we help patients identify the causes of dry eye and also help them manage their dry eye symptoms. Call today to make an appointment.

What Everyone Should Know About Dry Eyes

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Dry eyes can cause significant discomfort. Dry eyes can also make your eyes look red, which can be frustrating. Some people experience dry eyes seasonally, while others may experience dry eyes year-round. Understanding what causes dry eyes and how to treat them can help you manage this frustrating condition. Working with your eye doctor in the Pittsburgh area can help. Here’s what to know.

Dry Eye Causes

Dry eyes can be caused by certain medical conditions, certain medications and even by aging. Dry eyes are exacerbated by conditions in the environment like low humidity, staring into the wind and using the computer for long stretches.

How to Treat Dry Eyes

The best way to treat your dry eyes is to first see an eye doctor. Your eye doctor can determine whether your dry eyes are a chronic problem or the result of something temporary, like a medication that you’re currently taking. Your eye doctor can also determine the best course of action to treat your dry eyes.

In addition, there are many small changes you can make to your environment and behaviors that will help with dry eyes. For example:

  • Don’t blow dryers on high heat – turn the dryer to a low temperature and low setting
  • Use a humidifier in your home, especially at times of year when the humidity outside is very low
  • Use artificial tears

If your dry eyes are severe enough, your eye doctor may recommend prescription artificial tears. Medication can help your eyes stay moist enough to improve your comfort.

Dry eyes are a problem if you want to wear contact lenses, because moisture can stop infections. Get your dry eyes treated if you want to wear contacts in the Pittsburgh area. Call Lappen Eye Care for more information.