Dry Eye Treatment | Gilroy | Visual Edge Optometric Group

We Can Help You Manage Dry Eye

Dry eye disease is a chronic condition brought on by issues with your tear film that can lead to symptoms like blurry vision, watery eyes, or eye irritation. While dry eye severity can vary, it can worsen and lead to other complications if not managed quickly.

The good news is that our team at Visual Edge Optometric Group team can help you find relief. It all starts with a comprehensive eye exam, and from there, we can begin recommending personalized treatment options.

If you’re struggling with dry eye, we can help. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.

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Understanding the Causes of Dry Eye

Your eyes need tears to stay healthy. The tear film is the layer of tears covering the surface of your eyes that protects against infections and provides essential nutrients.

It is made of 3 layers:

The oily outer layer
The watery middle layer
The inner mucus layer

When any of the layers is faulty, inflammation and dry eye can result from meibomian gland dysfunction.

What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a chronic and progressive condition affecting the function of the tiny meibomian glands that line your eyelids. These glands produce the tear film’s oily layer, which helps prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly.

MGD symptoms can include:

Blurry or fluctuating vision
Watery eyes
Discomfort wearing contact lenses or eye makeup

Common Dry Eye Symptoms

Dry eye symptoms can put a dent in your productivity and slow you down—common symptoms of dry eye syndrome can include:

Stinging or gritty eyes
Scratchy and uncomfortable eyes
Fluctuating vision
A burning feeling
The feeling of something in the eye

Our team wants to help you find relief to get your comfort and productivity back.

Our Dry Eye Treatments

Dry eye can be more than an occasional annoyance. It can affect your comfort, vision, and overall quality of life. Our team understands how frustrating dry eye symptoms can be, so we offer a range of personalized treatments designed to soothe, heal, and protect your eyes.

Whether your dry eye is mild or persistent, our team will work with you to find the right solution that restores your eye health and keeps you feeling refreshed every day.

Prescription Eye Drops

When over-the-counter drops are not enough, our prescription eye drops provide powerful relief by addressing the root causes of dry eye. These specially formulated medications reduce inflammation and increase tear production to help your eyes stay naturally moist and comfortable.

With consistent use, many patients experience significant improvements in irritation, redness, and dryness. This treatment brings back the clarity and ease you deserve.

Punctal Plugs

If your eyes are not holding onto moisture as they should, punctal plugs offer a simple yet highly effective solution. These tiny, soft inserts are gently placed into your tear ducts to slow tear drainage.

This allows your natural tears to stay on the eye surface longer. The procedure is quick, painless, and reversible. It can be an ideal option if you’re seeking lasting hydration without the need for daily eye drops.

Amniotic Membrane Therapy

Amniotic membrane therapy offers a modern healing approach for more severe or persistent dry eye cases. This natural, bioactive membrane is applied to the eye’s surface to promote tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, and protect delicate cells from further damage.

Many patients find that this treatment revitalizes their eyes and significantly improves comfort, especially when other therapies have not provided the relief they need.

Managing Your Dry Eye Symptoms

Many cases of dry eye can be effectively managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, over-the-counter treatments, and professional care:

Artificial tears: Over-the-counter artificial tears can help replenish moisture in your eyes. We can recommend the most suitable type for your specific needs.
Warm compresses: Applying a warm compress to your eyes can help unclog the oil glands and improve tear production.
Lifestyle modifications: Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to dry eye. Avoiding excessive screen time, ensuring proper hydration, and quitting smoking can make a significant difference.
Prescription eye drops: In more severe cases, prescription eye drops may be necessary to address underlying inflammation or reduce tear evaporation.