Dry Eye Syndrome in Seattle, WA

If you have experienced dry, irritated eyes for more than a few days at a time, it could be dry eye syndrome. This common eye condition is caused by a lack of tears or unbalanced tear components, which can be caused by an underlying illness, some medications, or behavioral factors. Tears are fundamental to the overall health of the eyes so when they are unbalanced, it can lead to extreme inflammation of the eyes, as well as hazy vision. Dry eye syndrome is generally caused by an underlying illness, and after this underlying condition is diagnosed and treated, its symptoms are considerably reduced.

Dr. Scott Campbell offers many different solutions for anyone in Seattle, WA dealing with dry eye syndrome. He will perform an in-depth eye exam to properly identify your dry eye and find out whether there is an underlying cause. To learn more about getting help for dry eye syndrome, get in touch with SPEX to set up your exam.

People with dry eye syndrome commonly have blurry vision and bloodshot, scratchy, stinging eyes. Many patients feel like they have dust or dirt in their eyes or feel severe discomfort when inserting contact lenses. Numerous patients with dry eye also report that their eyes feel swollen and sore. In some cases, they develop light sensitivity and notice issues with night vision. Contrary to what the name implies, dry eye can, for some patients, trigger an overproduction of tears to compensate for the condition. Dry eye syndrome is the recurrent combination of several or all of these conditions, often leading to challenges with daily duties and everyday recreational activities.

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition caused by a variety of factors that affect tear production and eye lubrication. One primary cause is the natural aging process, which can reduce tear production, especially in postmenopausal women. Environmental factors like exposure to wind, smoke, or dry climates can also contribute to dry eyes by increasing tear evaporation. Additionally, prolonged screen time and certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren's syndrome, can interfere with tear gland function, leading to persistent dryness and eye discomfort.

The most effective method of finding out if you have dry eye syndrome is a complete eye exam. Along with your symptoms, Dr. Campbell will go over any past or current conditions to determine any underlying causes for your eye issues. The complete eye exam could include gauging the amount and makeup of your tears and a routine examination of your eyes, eyelids, and corneas using a special light and magnification lenses. If Dr. Campbell does diagnose you with dry eye syndrome, he will create a customized treatment plan based on the degree of your condition.