Dry Eye Treatment

If you live in Ashburn, Virginia and struggle with red, irritated, or constantly watery eyes, you are not alone. Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that affects many people in our community, often without them realizing the cause of their discomfort. At Your Eye Doctor P.C., Dr. Mandana Nasiri Manesh provides expert care and personalized treatments to help Ashburn residents find lasting relief from dry eye symptoms and regain everyday comfort.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for maintaining eye health, comfort, and clear vision. Without proper lubrication, the eyes become irritated and inflamed.

There are two main types of dry eye:

• Aqueous Tear-Deficient Dry Eye, where the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough of the watery component of tears.

• Evaporative Dry Eye, which occurs when the tears evaporate too quickly, often due to issues like Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) that affect the oily layer of the tear film.

Many patients experience a combination of both types, which is why identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye can be triggered by a wide range of factors, including:

• Aging and Hormonal Changes: Tear production tends to decrease with age, especially in women during menopause.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): Blocked oil glands in the eyelids cause tears to evaporate too quickly.

• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids contributes to poor tear quality.

• Eye Surgery: Procedures like LASIK can affect the eye’s ability to produce tears.

• Contact Lens Use: Long-term wear can disrupt the tear film.

• Allergies: Allergic reactions may lead to eye dryness and inflammation.

• Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications can reduce tear production.

• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases, such as Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders, are often linked to dry eye.
  
  

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may include:

• A scratchy, gritty, or sandy feeling

• Redness and irritation

• Burning or stinging sensations

• Watery eyes

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Discomfort with contact lens wear
  
  

How Dry Eye Is Diagnosed

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective dry eye treatment. Dr. Nasiri Manesh uses advanced diagnostic techniques to assess tear film stability and volume, evaluate Meibomian gland function, examine the health of the eyelids and ocular surface, and check for inflammation or signs of blepharitis. By identifying the root cause of your symptoms, we can develop a personalized treatment plan designed to target your specific condition and provide lasting relief.

Personalized Dry Eye Treatment Options

Dry eye treatment is not the same for everyone. At Your Eye Doctor P.C., each treatment plan is tailored to your specific condition and the severity of your symptoms. Depending on your needs, options may include:

• Eyelid Hygiene: Cleaning the eyelid margins to reduce bacteria and inflammation.

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating drops to relieve dryness.

• Prescription Eye Drops: Medications to reduce inflammation and increase tear production.

• Nutritional Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids can support healthy tear film production.

• Punctal Plugs: Tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to reduce tear drainage and retain moisture.

• Amniotic Membrane Therapy: Biological tissue placed on the eye to promote healing and reduce inflammation for severe cases.
  
  

Achieve Dry Eye Relief in Ashburn

Living with dry eye can be frustrating, but effective relief is possible with the right diagnosis and care. At Your Eye Doctor P.C., Dr. Mandana Nasiri Manesh is committed to identifying the underlying cause of your symptoms and providing a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Whether your discomfort is mild or more advanced, we’re here to help you feel better and protect your long-term eye health.

If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, schedule a dry eye evaluation at our Ashburn, VA office and discover treatment that works for you