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Treatment for Dry Eyes in Buffalo, NY
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What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye is a common eye disease that causes the eyes to feel dry, itchy, and uncomfortable. Your tears are composed of a combination of water and oils, created in glands around the eye. Their complex structure allows them to keep the eye hydrated and protected against bacteria and damage from foreign objects.
Many things interfere with your eyes’ ability to create tears, which can keep them from doing their job. This is the source of dry eye and the reason why it’s important to find and treat the causes, not just the symptoms.
Common Causes of Dry Eye
Dry eye syndrome is often overlooked, and many people who suffer from it simply learn to live with the discomfort. For some, dry eye may improve on its own, but for others, it’s an ongoing issue.
Many different factors can trigger dry eye. Understanding the cause is key to finding the right treatment. Common causes include:
Age
Tear production naturally decreases with age.
Autoimmune Disorders
Conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome can cause dry eye.
Screen Time
Reduced blinking while using phones or computers.
Medications
Antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants.
Contact Lenses
Long-term use can disrupt the tear film.
Environment
Wind, dry air, heating or cooling systems.
Our Approach to Dry Eye Diagnosis
At Buffalo Ophthalmology, we don’t guess—we test. We use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate the quality, quantity, and consistency of your tears. This includes assessing your tear film stability, measuring tear volume, and looking at the health of your meibomian glands.
By identifying the specific type and cause of your dry eye—whether it’s evaporative, aqueous-deficient, or both—we’re able to create a treatment plan that works, not just temporarily, but for the long term.
Dry Eye Treatment in Buffalo
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for dry eye. That’s why we offer a wide range of treatments tailored to the severity and source of your symptoms. These may include:
Medicated Eye Drops
Prescription drops like cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) help reduce inflammation and improve tear production over time.
Punctal Plugs
Tiny biocompatible plugs inserted into the tear ducts can help conserve your natural tears and keep your eyes better lubricated.
Lifestyle Adjustments
We may recommend changes to your environment, screen time habits, or medications that could be worsening your symptoms.
Artificial Tears & Lubricating Gels
High-quality, preservative-free artificial tears may be recommended for milder symptoms or to supplement other treatments.
Warm Compresses & Lid Hygiene
For patients with meibomian gland dysfunction, warm compresses and gentle eyelid scrubs can help improve oil flow and tear quality.
Take a Step Toward Lasting Relief
If you’re experiencing chronic irritation, blurred vision, or discomfort that’s interfering with your daily life, don’t wait to seek care. Chronic dry eye isn’t something you have to live with. Our team is here to provide the answers, tools, and treatments you need to see and feel better.