Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment in Plainfield, IL

Dry eye syndrome is a common issue where the eyes don't produce enough tears or tears evaporate too quickly, leading to irritation and discomfort. Symptoms include a gritty feeling, redness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. If untreated, it can damage the cornea.

About 44 million Americans have dry eye, often caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which involves blocked oil glands in the eyelids and accounts for 86% of cases.

At 4Sight iCare, we provide evaluations and treatments for dry eye, focusing on identifying the cause and creating a personalized plan to improve tear production and comfort.

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What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye is brought about by many factors that disrupt the normal tear film. Deficiency in any of the layers of the tear film (oil, water, or mucus) creates dry eye syndrome. Causes:

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): In dry eye cases, blocked or inflamed meibomian glands reduce the oily component of tears, causing faster evaporation.
• Medications: Many medications, including antihistamines and blood pressure drugs, can cause dry eye as a side effect.
• Aging: Tear secretion decreases with age, making those over 50 more susceptible to dry eye symptoms.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like Sjögren's syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis can damage tear glands or cause inflammation.
• Allergies: Allergies can lead to red, watery eyes, which may mimic or worsen dry eye symptoms.
• Environmental Factors: Dry conditions, wind, air conditioning, smoke, and extended screen time can contribute to tear evaporation.

Whenever tear production or quality is disrupted, the ocular surface becomes disrupted. Knowing the underlying causes enables us to appropriately direct therapy.

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Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye symptoms may be very variable. You may experience:

• Burning, Stinging or Grittiness: A constant sensation as if something is in your eye (like dust or sand).
• Red or Bloodshot Eyes: Long-term dryness generally leaves the eyes looking irritated or reddened.
• Blurred or Fluctuating Vision: Your vision can occasionally blur, especially while reading or doing computer work, as tear quality worsens.
• Light Sensitivity: Dry eyes typically become more light-sensitive (photophobic).
• Excessive Tearing: Ironically, dehydrated eyes will trigger reflex tearing, leading to watery eyes.
• Discomfort with Contact Lenses: You may be able to tolerate soft contacts less comfortably.
• Corneal Surface Damage: In extreme cases, improper lubrication will create minute scratches or damage on the cornea.

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with our eye doctor. Proper diagnosis is the key to relief.

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Dry Eye Diagnosis at 4Sight iCare

We begin with a full eye examination. Your ocular condition and vision (typically with dilation) will be evaluated by the doctor. Specifically, your tear film will be evaluated. This could include measuring tear quantity (e.g., Schirmer's test), observing tear-film breakup time, and examining eyelid glands under magnification. We're looking for signs of inflammation, gland obstruction, or other anomalies.

Dry eye occurs when the glands fail to secrete adequate tears or if tears evaporate too fast. From these tests, we can determine whether your dry eye is due to aqueous deficiency (not enough tear production) or evaporative loss (most often from MGD). With the specific cause in mind, we can tailor treatment precisely.

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Dry Eye Treatment Options

Once we understand why, the doctor will develop an individualized treatment plan. We most commonly employ a combination of techniques:

• Lubricating Ointments and Drops: For mild to moderate dry eye, start with preservative-free artificial tears and use a lubricating ointment or gel at night to moisturize the ocular surface.
• Prescription Anti-Inflammatory Drops: For inflammation or severe symptoms, medications like cyclosporine or lifitegrast help stimulate natural tear production.
• Tyrvaya Nasal Spray: This prescription nasal spray stimulates tear release directly from the tear glands, addressing the underlying cause of dryness.
• Medication Review: If a current medication is causing dry eye, Dr. Burke can collaborate with your physician to adjust or switch the medication for relief.
• Omega-3 and Nutritional Supplements: Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids support healthy oil secretion from meibomian glands, and vitamin A can be part of an eye nutrition program.
• Warm Compresses and Lid Hygiene: Daily warm compresses for a few minutes, followed by gentle eyelid cleansing, maintain hygiene and promote gland function.
• Punctal Plugs: Tiny plugs may be inserted in tear drainage canals to retain tears and enhance moisture on the ocular surface.
• Advanced In-Office Therapies: Treatments like NuLids Pro massage and clean eyelids, opening glands, and improving tear quality.
• Specialty Contact Lenses: Scleral lenses for moderate-to-severe dry eye create a fluid reservoir, improving comfort and vision for many patients.

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Meet Dr. Burke

Dr. Mark Burke, OD
Dr. Mark Burke is the founding optometrist at 4Sight iCare and has been a resident of Plainfield for many years. With over 15 years of clinical experience, Dr. Burke previously served as President of the West Suburban Illinois Optometric Association. He remains actively involved in the local Lions Club and Chamber of Commerce. As a sports enthusiast, he helps athletes achieve optimal vision through sports vision training, prescription glasses, ortho-k retainers, and specialized contact lenses.

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Insurance & Payment Choices

We accept most vision and medical insurance plans and also offer Flexible Spending (FSA/HSA) accounts for copays and glasses. Our trained staff will check your coverage and outline your benefits before you receive any treatment, so you're not caught off guard.
We honor cash, checks, and all major credit cards for payment. In the event of a more costly procedure, special arrangements for payment plans or financing can be made when needed.

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Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation

Don't overlook it if your eyes feel dry, gritty, or irritated. Call today to schedule a comprehensive dry eye exam.