Are you feeling uncomfortable with your vision? It could be dry eyes.
Dry eye syndrome is a common but uncomfortable condition that causes burning, stinging, itching, and blurry vision. Dry eyes can even lead to more serious complications, like eye inflammation and corneal ulcers. The Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida is proud to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for patients with dry eye syndrome in Lee County.
Below, Dr. James E. Croley III discusses the long-term effects of untreated dry eyes. We also provide information on how to identify these symptoms at home.
The Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida is Southwest Florida’s trusted eye center. For appointments, call our staff at (239) 772-2122 or request an appointment online. We have locations in Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, and Bonita Springs, FL.
What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when the tear glands do not produce enough tears or when the tears are of poor quality. This can happen for any of the following reasons:
- Advanced Age
- Hormonal Changes (e.g., during menopause)
- Medications (e.g., antidepressants, antihistamines)
- Environmental Factors (e.g., wind, smoke, dry air)
- Medical Conditions (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis)
What Are the Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome ranges from mild to severe in patients, and it may come and go depending on the source of the issue. Common symptoms include:
- Burning Sensation
- Stinging
- Itching
- Redness
- Blurry Vision
- Excessive Tearing
- Sensitivity to Light
Additionally, people with dry eye syndrome feel like they have dirt or sand in their eyes and experience pain when wearing contact lenses. We encourage patients to avoid wearing contacts until the condition is managed.
If you have any of the above issues, it is important to see an experienced eye doctor, like Dr. James E. Croley III in Lee County. Our staff can perform an eye exam to determine the cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan moving forward.
What Are the Long-term Effects of Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eyes may seem like a minor annoyance, but untreated, dry eyes may lead to serious problems down the line. These include:
- Eye inflammation - Without enough tears to keep the eyes lubricated, eye inflammation and irritation occur.
- Corneal Ulcers - Corneal ulcers are open sores on the surface of the eye. Ulcers cause pain, redness, and light sensitivity.
- Permanent Damage to the Eye - Untreated, dry eyes may permanently damage the cornea. This could lead to vision loss or even blindness.
How Do I Take Care of My Eyes When I Have Dry Eye Syndrome?
Managing dry eye syndrome requires consistent care and small daily adjustments to keep your eyes comfortable and protected. Here are some ways to care for your eyes if you’re living with this condition:
- Use Preservative-Free Artificial Tears: Regularly applying lubricating eye drops can help restore moisture to the eye surface. Preservative-free options are often gentler for long-term use.
- Apply Warm Compresses: A warm, moist cloth placed over closed eyes can help loosen clogged oil glands, improving tear quality and comfort.
- Blink More Often: Especially during screen time, remind yourself to blink fully and frequently to help spread tears evenly across your eyes.
- Limit Screen Exposure: Take regular breaks from computers and phones. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Use a Humidifier: Dry indoor air, especially from heating or air conditioning, can worsen symptoms. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, supporting tear stability.
- Wear Sunglasses Outdoors: Wraparound sunglasses can protect your eyes from wind, dust, sun, and other elements that may aggravate dry eye symptoms.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help maintain tear production and overall eye comfort.
- Avoid Smoke and Irritants: Cigarette smoke and harsh chemicals can worsen inflammation and dryness. Avoiding these triggers can help reduce flare-ups.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions: If prescribed medicated drops or in-office treatments, stay consistent and communicate regularly with your eye care provider.
How Are Dry Eyes Treated?
Before creating a custom treatment plan, the Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida uses a slit lamp microscope to assess the surface of the eye. Dr. Croley may also administer a special dye to determine if the cornea was damaged in any way.
We generally recommend prescription or over-the-counter eye drops for mild cases of dry eye syndrome. These drops act as artificial tears and properly lubricate the eyes when needed.
Moderate to severe cases of dry eyes may require special plugs placed in the tear ducts. Also called punctal occlusion, this solution is designed to keep your real tears from draining too quickly. We offer both temporary and long-lasting options depending on your needs.
Why Choose the Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida?
- Expert Ophthalmologists - Your vision is cared for by our highly experienced specialists with decades of medical knowledge.
- Comprehensive Eye Care - Patients benefit from a full range of services designed to protect and improve vision. From cataract surgery and glaucoma treatments to refractive vision correction and dry eye therapy, our institute covers every aspect of eye health. An on‑site optical center also makes it easy to find stylish frames and trusted contact lens brands.
- Advanced Technology - We use the latest technology to deliver precise, effective treatments.
- Trusted Local Presence - Serving communities across Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres, and Bonita Springs, our institute has built a reputation for reliability and excellence in Southwest Florida. Patients know they can count on consistent, high‑quality care close to home.
- Patient-Centered Approach - Every patient receives personalized attention and treatment plans designed around their unique needs
Manage Dry Eyes with Our Help
We understand that dry eye syndrome can be frustrating. If you have red and burning eyes or a more serious condition like corneal ulcers, do not hesitate to call the Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida.
At the Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida, our board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. James E. Croley III, uses state-of-the-art tools and techniques to help his patients manage their eye conditions. Dr. Croley is a member of the following professional organizations:
Jyotin C. Pandit, M. D.
Dr. Jyotin C. Pandit, a UK‑trained and Oxford‑educated ophthalmologist, has joined the Cataract & Refractive Institute of Florida, bringing with him more than 35 years of international expertise in comprehensive eye care. A distinguished member of the Florida Society of Ophthalmology, Dr. Pandit has contributed extensively to peer‑reviewed medical literature, with over 20 published papers in leading journals such as the British Journal of Ophthalmology, Experimental Eye Research, and the BMJ.
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CAPE CORAL
- 613 Del Prado Boulevard, 33990
- (239) 772-2122
LEHIGH ACRES
- 1150 Lee Boulevard, 33936
- (239) 368-1020
BONITA SPRINGS
- 4061 Bonita Beach Road, 34134
- (239) 949-1190
