Dry Eye Specialist
Renew Eye Clinic
Michael Choi, M.D.
General Ophthalmology & Cataract Surgeon located in Buena Park, CA
Dry eyes is a common condition that can be incredibly uncomfortable. Residents in Buena Park, California, turn to Michael Choi, MD, of Renew Eye Clinic for top quality care for dry eyes. Don’t accept itching or burning eyes as inevitable when there are treatments that can help. Call the office or click to schedule a personalized visit today
Dry Eye Q&A
What is dry eyes?
Dry eyes, also called dry eye, is a common eye problem that occurs when your body cannot produce sufficient lubrication for your eyes. Every time you blink, your eyelids distribute tears across the surface of your eyes to keep them properly lubricated and healthy.
Tears are not just made of saline; they are complex solutions that contain two layers of mucus that hydrate your eyes and an oily outer layer to prevent evaporation. When you don’t have enough tears, or when your tears are not properly balanced, you can develop dry eyes.
What are some symptoms of dry eyes?
The primary symptom of dry eyes is a sensation of stinging, burning, or itching in one or both eyes. Additional signs that you may have dry eyes include:
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty driving at night
- Stringy mucus in or near your eyes
- Problems wearing your contact lenses
- Blurred vision
- Eye fatigue
- Sensation of something in your eye
Everyone experiences occasional dry eyes, especially after a prolonged period of being outside, in windy conditions or in front of a screen. When symptoms persist over time, however, it is time to call Renew Eye Clinic to schedule a diagnostic work-up.
What are some treatments that can improve dry eyes?
Dr. Choi begins with a comprehensive eye exam to determine the cause of your dry eyes. If an underlying eye health condition is to blame, treatment focuses on improving that condition.
There are numerous medications that can improve the symptoms of dry eyes. Some work to reduce eyelid inflammation, while others lessen cornea swelling. There are medications that supplement your natural tear production and some that stimulate your body to create more tears.
If you wear contact lenses, new options can help treat dry eyes by trapping moisture and protecting the surface of your eyes. If clogged oil glands are to blame for your symptoms, warm compresses can help as can a procedure that uses vibration to unclog the glands.
Some people find relief from a procedure that closes your tear ducts. That prevents your natural tears from leaving your eyes too rapidly. There are temporary and permanent options available.
If you’re tired of itching, scratchy, and painful eyes, call Renew Eye Clinic to set up a visit. Online booking is also an option and is fast and easy.