How Can I Tell the Difference Between Dry Eye and Pink Eye?  

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Dry eye and pink eye are distinctly different problems, but they can have symptoms that look similar. If you believe you’re having either one of these issues, contact your eye doctor in Champaign, IL to find out next steps. Below is what you should know about dry eye and pink eye, and what the differences are between them.

What is dry eye?

Dry eye is a condition that occurs when the eyes do not make enough tears, and that leaves the eyes feeling dry. Dry eye can occur for a variety of reasons including environmental factors, medication side effects, seasonal allergies, aging, hormonal factors and illness.

Some people suffer from dry eye on an annual basis due to their reaction pollen in the air, while others suffer from dry eye because of conditions that are not seasonal or cyclical. Dry eye symptoms include a dry or gritty sensation in the eyes, increased tear production, eyes look red and irritated, sensitivity to light, eyes glued shut after sleeping, itching, and a feeling of eye strain.

What is pink eye?

Pink eye is a condition that causes inflammation of the conjunctiva (tissues lining the eyelid). Many things can cause pink eye, including allergens and viruses. If you have pink eye, your eye will be red or pink, and the eyelid may start to look droopy. Pink eye symptoms are very similar to the dry eye symptoms listed above, although someone with pink eye may experience more discharge from the eye, and more discomfort.

How can I tell the difference between dry eye and pink eye?

Call your eye doctor to find out next steps. Your eye doctor may ask you to come in for an eye exam in Champaign, IL. To learn more about what you should do for your dry eye or pink eye, call Champaign Eye Professionals.

 

 

When Does Dry Eye Become a Medical Problem?

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A dry eye is expected when the eyes are not lubricated enough, causing discomfort and irritation. Although it is a common issue, it is essential to understand when it becomes a medical problem that requires professional attention.

The skilled team at Champaign Eye Professionals of Champaign, IL, is proud to serve the local community with premium eye care services, including preventing ocular issues from degenerating into more complex problems.

What is Dry Eye?

A dry eye occurs when your tears are insufficient to provide moisture and lubrication to your eyes. Various factors, including age, hormonal changes, medications, and environmental elements like dry air or wind, can cause this condition. If left untreated, dry eye can lead to serious eye problems, including vision loss.

When Should I See a Professional?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is essential to seek professional medical attention:

  1. Persistent dryness, itching, and burning sensation in your eyes.
  2. Sensitivity to light and glare.
  3. Redness or swelling of your eyes.
  4. Blurry vision or difficulty seeing clearly.
  5. Feeling like there is something stuck in your eye.

If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to help you get the relief you need and deserve.

Your Trusted Eye Care Team

Our clinic has a team of highly trained professionals specializing in treating dry eye. We use state-of-the-art equipment and technology to diagnose and treat this condition effectively. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. During your next appointment with the proficient team at Champaign Eye Professionals of Champaign, IL, you can be confident that you are receiving the best care and guidance you and your family deserve.

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How to Manage Dry Eye Syndrome

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If you have been diagnosed with dry eye syndrome in Champaign, IL, you need to treat your eyes with special care. Dry eye is a condition that means that your eyes do not produce sufficient moisture. Millions of people around the world suffer from this condition. It’s essential that you learn to manage with dry eye syndrome so that you can enjoy the best eyesight possible without accidentally worsening your condition.

Don’t Use Over-the-Counter Eye Drops

One of the most uncomfortable symptoms of dry eye syndrome is the persistent sandy, gritty feeling in the eyes. To combat this, many people with dry eye syndrome resort to using readily available, over-the-counter eye drops. However, these inexpensive eye drops do little except provide short-term relief. In the long run, they actually make the condition worse by increasing dryness. Only use prescribed eye drops from your eye doctor in Champaign, IL. These medicated eye drops will alleviate that uncomfortable gritty sensation without harming the eyes.

Consider Sclera Lenses

Most people can tolerate regular contact lenses. But if you have dry eye syndrome, regular contact lenses can be damaging. Instead of forcing yourself to bear the discomfort of contacts, ask your eye doctor about sclera lenses. These lenses only contact the eyes around the perimeter of the lens, making them a great choice for those with dry eye syndrome.

Stay Hydrated

Your eyes can only create moisture if there is sufficient hydration in the body, no matter what conditions you suffer from. If you have dry eye syndrome, make a special point to get sufficient hydration throughout the day. Remember that if you’re thirsty, your body may already be dehydrated.

Your eye doctor in Champaign, IL, will have more tips for you to properly manage dry eye syndrome. Contact us today to learn more.