Dry eye disease is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor, leading to discomfort, irritation, and in severe cases, damage to the cornea.

There are two types of dry eye disease: aqueous and evaporative. Aqueous dry eye disease occurs when the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough tears, while evaporative dry eye disease happens when tears evaporate too quickly due to a lack of lipid or oil production in the meibomian glands. Both types can cause similar symptoms, including burning, itching, redness, and a feeling of dryness in the eyes.

Detecting dry eye disease early is critical to effective treatment. At Chan & Chan Eye Clinic, we use a range of diagnostic tools to identify dry eye disease, including tear break-up time tests and meibomian gland analysis. We also ask about your symptoms and medical history to get a comprehensive understanding of your condition.

Once we've diagnosed your dry eye disease, we will recommend an individualized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. Our treatment plans may include hot compressions, eye drops, supplements, and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy. Hot compressions can help unclog the meibomian glands and improve oil secretion, while eye drops can provide immediate relief from symptoms. Supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids can improve the quality of tears, and IPL therapy can help reduce inflammation and improve the function of the meibomian glands.

At Chan & Chan Eye Clinic, we believe in a comprehensive approach to treating dry eye disease. We will work with you to develop a plan that fits your lifestyle and meets your needs. If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eye disease, contact us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced optometrists. We're here to help you see your best and live your best life.