Dry eye disease is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the quality of tears is poor, leading to discomfort, vision disturbances, and potential damage to the surface of the eye. At SeePort Optometry, we are proud to offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to help patients find long-lasting relief.

 

Understanding Dry Eye

Dry eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This imbalance can lead to symptoms such as stinging, burning, redness, blurred vision, or a gritty sensation, as if something is in your eye. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision. When tear production or quality is disrupted, it can affect your daily comfort and overall eye health. Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, screen use, contact lens wear, certain medications, or underlying health conditions.
 

Improved Diagnostic Tools

In the past, diagnosing dry eye relied heavily on patient-reported symptoms and basic visual exams. Today, advanced diagnostic equipment provides more accurate and detailed information, allowing for personalized treatment plans. Some of the most effective technologies include:
 

• Tear Osmolarity Testing: This test measures the salt concentration in your tears. An imbalance can indicate dry eye disease. The higher the osmolarity, the more likely inflammation is present.

• Meibography: This non-invasive imaging tool captures high-resolution images of the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of your tears. Dysfunction of these glands is a leading cause of evaporative dry eye.

• InflammaDry Testing: InflammaDry detects a specific inflammatory marker (MMP-9) in your tears, helping us determine whether inflammation is contributing to your dry eye symptoms.
  
   

Advanced Dry Eye Treatments

The evolution of treatment options has significantly improved the way we manage dry eye disease. At SeePort Optometry, we utilize a range of targeted therapies to address the root causes of your symptoms and provide long-lasting relief.
 

• Prescription Eye Drops: Medicated eye drops are often used to reduce inflammation and increase natural tear production. Depending on your condition, we may recommend prescription options that help restore tear balance and protect the eye’s surface.

• Punctal Plugs: To help retain moisture on the eye’s surface, tiny biocompatible plugs can be inserted into the tear ducts. These plugs slow tear drainage, keeping your eyes more comfortable throughout the day.

• Eyelid Hygiene: Keeping the eyelids clean is essential for managing dry eye, especially when meibomian gland dysfunction is involved. We recommend gentle yet effective at-home or in-office eyelid hygiene routines to reduce bacteria and improve gland function.

• Specialty Contact Lenses: For patients with more advanced dry eye, specialty contact lenses such as scleral lenses can provide a smooth, hydrated surface that protects the eye and improves vision. These lenses are custom-fitted for maximum comfort and therapeutic benefit.
  
   

Personalized Dry Eye Care at SeePort Optometry

The key to managing dry eye effectively is a tailored approach. Every patient has different triggers, lifestyle factors, and symptoms. We take time to understand your experience and use modern tools to create a plan that works specifically for you.
 

Schedule a dry eye evaluation with SeePort Optometry for personalized treatment options. Visit our office in North Port, Florida, or call (941) 876-4400 to book an appointment today.