Dry Eye Syndrome in Amarillo Tx

Managing Dry Eye: How Broome Optical in Amarillo Can Help You Find Relief

Dry eye syndrome can be a constant source of irritation, making even the simplest tasks uncomfortable. When your eyes feel dry, scratchy, or overly watery, it’s more than just an annoyance—it’s a sign that your eyes need some extra care. At Broome Optical in Amarillo, Texas, we understand how challenging dry eye syndrome can be, and we offer comprehensive exams and solutions to help everyone find relief. Let’s explore what dry eye syndrome is, why it happens, and how our exams and treatments can make a difference for you.

What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears produced aren’t the right quality to keep your eyes properly hydrated. Tears are important because they keep the eyes moist, protect against infections, and provide a smooth surface for clear vision.

Common Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye syndrome can be caused by a number of things, including:

1. Aging: As we age, tear production naturally decreases.
2. Screen Time: Staring at screens for long periods can cause us to blink less, which means fewer tears.
3. Environment: Wind, smoke, or dry air can make your eyes dry out.
4. Medications: Some medications, like antihistamines, decongestants, and certain blood pressure medicines, can reduce tear production.
5. Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid problems can contribute to dry eye.

Why Get a Dry Eye Exam?

It’s easy to ignore dry eyes or treat them with over-the-counter drops. However, a thorough dry eye exam at Broome Optical in Amarillo, Texas can identify the root cause of the dryness, allowing for more effective and lasting treatment.

• Getting the Right Diagnosis: Dry eye syndrome can result from different causes, each needing a unique treatment approach. By getting a professional exam, you’ll know exactly what’s causing your dry eyes.
• Preventing Further Irritation: Dry eyes aren’t just uncomfortable; they can lead to more serious problems if untreated, including eye infections and damage to the eye’s surface.

What to Expect During a Dry Eye Exam at Broome Optical

At Broome Optical in Amarillo, Texas, we make sure each dry eye exam is thorough yet comfortable. Our experienced team takes the time to understand your symptoms, environment, and lifestyle so that we can offer solutions that really work for you.

Steps of a Dry Eye Exam

1. Medical and Lifestyle History: We’ll ask about your health history, daily routines, and any medications that may contribute to dry eyes.
2. Tear Quality and Quantity Testing: Using non-invasive tools, we check if your eyes produce enough tears and if the tears are of the right quality.
3. Eye Surface Examination: By looking at the surface of your eyes under special light, we can see if there’s any damage due to dryness or inflammation.
4. Tear Film Analysis: Your tear film’s stability is analyzed to understand how quickly tears evaporate, which can help us pinpoint specific causes.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye Syndrome

After the exam, our optometrists at Broome Optical in Amarillo, Texas will discuss your treatment options. We understand that each case is unique, so we’ll make sure you have a treatment plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.

At-Home Remedies

Sometimes, dry eye can be improved with simple changes at home:

• Use a Humidifier: If the air in your home is dry, a humidifier can add moisture to prevent your eyes from drying out.
• Take Breaks from Screens: Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen to give your eyes a rest.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep your whole body hydrated, including your eyes.

Prescription Eye Drops

If over-the-counter drops aren’t enough, we may recommend prescription eye drops that help increase tear production or reduce inflammation, providing better long-term relief.

Punctal Plugs

In some cases, a procedure called punctal plugs may be recommended. These tiny plugs are inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tears from draining too quickly, keeping the eyes moist for longer.

Why Choose Broome Optical for Dry Eye Care?

Broome Optical in Amarillo has been a trusted eye care provider for over 90 years, serving the Texas Panhandle with a commitment to friendly, expert care. Our approach to dry eye exams combines experience with advanced technology to give you the best chance of finding lasting relief.

Expertise in Dry Eye Syndrome

With years of experience treating a variety of eye conditions, we know how to assess and address the unique factors that contribute to dry eyes. Our team is here to help you understand your condition and find a solution that fits your lifestyle.

Personalized Care You Can Trust

We take time to listen and make sure we understand your symptoms, offering solutions tailored specifically for you. Whether it’s an adjustment in lifestyle, specialized drops, or more advanced procedures, we’ll find the right fit.

Tips for Managing Dry Eye at Home

Even with treatment, managing dry eye may require some lifestyle adjustments. Here are some easy ways to help keep your eyes more comfortable every day:

1. Blink Often: Especially when looking at screens, remember to blink often to keep your eyes moisturized.
2. Wear Sunglasses: Sunglasses with wraparound frames can help protect your eyes from wind and dry air.
3. Take Eye Breaks: Give your eyes a break from screens, reading, or any close-up work every 20 minutes.
4. Eat Eye-Healthy Foods: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, may improve tear production and reduce dry eye symptoms.

When to See Us for a Dry Eye Exam

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to schedule a dry eye exam:

• Constant itching or burning
• Feeling like there’s something in your eye
• Redness or stinging
• Blurred vision, especially after reading or screen time

Even if you’re managing okay with at-home remedies, regular exams can help monitor your eye health and make sure your dry eye symptoms aren’t signaling a larger issue.

Get Relief with Broome Optical’s Dry Eye Exam

If dry eyes are affecting your daily life, schedule an appointment with Broome Optical in Amarillo, Texas. Our dry eye exams are designed to get to the root of the problem, so you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision again. From friendly care to effective solutions, Broome Optical is here to help you feel and see your best.

Your comfort matters to us. Reach out to Broome Optical today to set up your dry eye exam, and take the first step toward relief and healthier eyes.