20 Million Cases and Counting
Annually, 20 million Americans face dry eye disease, a number that’s on the rise. Levin Eyecare meets this growing demand with expertise and advanced technology, ensuring our patients achieve comfortable and clear vision.
20M
Americans
Affected
Affected
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the meibomian glands?
Meibomian glands are tiny glands along your eyelids that produce oils to keep your tears stable and prevent them from evaporating too quickly. When these glands don’t work as well as they should, you might experience dry eye symptoms like irritation and blurry vision.
Does Levin prescribe the best eye drops or ointments for dry eyes?
There is no single best eye drop that works for everyone, because everyone’s eyes are different, and the causes of their condition will vary. Our optometrists know your eyes better than anyone else, so the eye drop recommendations we make will be tailored to your specific dry eye needs. We consider all factors that affect your vision, like age, underlying causes, lifestyle, environmental conditions, and more.
Are strained eyes a symptom of dry eyes?
Yes, strained eyes can indicate dry eye syndrome, as the eyes may overcompensate for insufficient tear production or poor tear quality. Symptoms of eye strain, including discomfort, redness, and sensitivity to light, often overlap with those of dry eye.
How do dry eyes and contacts interact? Can I wear them?
More severe cases of dry eye can make the eyes too dry and sensitive to wear traditional contact lenses. However, with proper care and management, or certain specialty lenses, some people with dry eye can wear contact lenses. We can offer you guidance on lens selection, care routines, and eye drops optimized for your comfort and eye health.
What are the causes of dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome can stem from various factors, including aging, hormonal changes, environmental conditions (such as low humidity or air pollution), medications (such as antihistamines or birth control pills), systemic diseases (like Sjögren’s syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis), and prolonged screen use, which can reduce blink frequency and exacerbate symptoms.
Can I use warm compresses for dry or strained eyes?
Yes, warm compresses can provide relief by gently heating the area around your eyes, which can help improve meibomian gland function. This improves the secretion of oils necessary for a healthy tear film, which can reduce symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and discomfort. Please contact your optometrist to ensure a safe and effective application of the compress.