What is Dry Eye Disease & How Does It Affect You?
Dry eye disease, also known as dry eye syndrome, occurs when your eyes cannot produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is compromised. This condition affects the protective tear film that naturally cleanses and moisturizes your eyes with each blink.
When this essential moisture barrier breaks down, your eyes may experience:
- Persistent burning or gritty sensations
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Redness and irritation
- Blurred vision that may fluctuate throughout the day
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses comfortably
- Watery eyes (a paradoxical symptom as your body tries to compensate)
At Vision Source Mandan, we understand how dry eye can impact your daily life. Simple activities like reading, working at a computer, or driving can become uncomfortable and challenging. That’s why our team of experienced optometrists—Dr. Brittany Schauer, Dr. Wayne Aberle, and Dr. Danielle Dyke—offer specialized dry eye treatments tailored to your specific needs.
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| Risk Factors | Environmental Triggers | Medical Conditions |
| Age (over 50) | Extended screen time | Autoimmune disorders |
| Female gender | Low humidity environments | Diabetes |
| Contact lens wear | Air conditioning/heating | Thyroid issues |
| Nutritional deficiencies | Smoking or smoke exposure | Hormonal changes |
| Certain medications | Windy conditions | Blepharitis |
Dry eye is a multi-factorial condition that can result from numerous causes. During your comprehensive eye examination at Vision Source Mandan, we’ll identify the specific factors contributing to your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Advanced Dry Eye Treatments at Vision Source Mandan
At Vision Source Mandan, we offer a range of cutting-edge treatments for dry eye that go beyond simple eye drops. Our approach focuses on addressing the root causes of your dry eye symptoms rather than just temporary relief.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) Treatment
Many dry eye cases stem from problems with the meibomian glands—tiny oil-producing glands along your eyelids that create the protective outer layer of your tear film. When these glands become clogged or dysfunctional, your tears evaporate too quickly.
We offer two revolutionary in-office treatments specifically designed to restore proper meibomian gland function:
BlephEx Treatment This gentle procedure:
- Removes bacterial biofilm from your eyelid margins (similar to removing plaque at a dental cleaning)
- Clears blockages from meibomian gland openings
- Eliminates bacterial toxins that contribute to inflammation
- Takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete
- Provides immediate comfort for many patients
iLux Thermal Treatment This advanced therapy:
- Uses controlled heat to melt hardened oils in clogged meibomian glands
- Applies precise pressure to express the glands and restore oil flow
- Improves tear film stability and reduces evaporation
- Works synergistically with BlephEx for optimal results
- Can provide relief lasting 9-12 months for many patients
Prescription and Over-the-Counter Solutions
We also offer a variety of additional treatments to complement our in-office procedures:
- Optase Product Line: Available in our office for your convenience, including:
- Dry Eye Intense drops for immediate relief
- MGD Advanced drops for oil gland support
- HyloNight ointment for overnight protection
- Nutritional Supplements: Specifically formulated to support tear production and meibomian gland health from within
- Prescription Medications: When appropriate, we can prescribe specialized drops that help your eyes produce more natural tears
Why Choose Vision Source Mandan for Dry Eye Treatment?
At Vision Source Mandan, we believe everyone deserves to enjoy clear, comfortable vision. When you choose us for your dry eye treatment, you benefit from:
Expert Care: Our doctors have specialized training in diagnosing and treating even the most complex dry eye cases. As part of the prestigious Vision Source network—North America’s premier group of 3,000+ independent optometry practices—we stay at the forefront of eye care technology and treatment options.
Personalized Approach: We take time to understand your unique symptoms and lifestyle factors, creating custom treatment plans based on your specific needs. No two dry eye cases are exactly alike, and we don’t treat them as such.
Local, Convenient Care: Located at 107 6th Ave. NW in Mandan, ND, we’re easily accessible to residents of Mandan, Bismarck, and surrounding communities.
Comprehensive Eye Health: Beyond treating dry eye, our team provides complete vision care services for your entire family, ensuring all aspects of your eye health are monitored and maintained.
What Our Patients Are Saying About Dry Eye Treatment
“After suffering with dry, irritated eyes for years, the combination of BlephEx and iLux treatments has been life-changing. I no longer need to use artificial tears constantly throughout the day.” – Mandan resident
“Dr. Schauer took the time to explain exactly what was causing my dry eye and created a treatment plan that actually addressed the root problem instead of just masking symptoms.” – Bismarck patient
Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Eye Treatment
How do I know if I have dry eye or just regular eye fatigue?
While eye fatigue typically improves with rest, dry eye symptoms often persist and may include burning, grittiness, redness, and fluctuating vision. A proper diagnosis from one of our optometrists can determine if you’re experiencing dry eye disease.
Is dry eye treatment covered by insurance?
How long does it take to see results from dry eye treatment?
Many patients notice improvement shortly after their first in-office treatment. However, dry eye is often a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Your doctor will establish realistic expectations based on your specific case.
Can I still wear contact lenses if I have dry eye?
Many people with dry eye can successfully wear contact lenses after proper treatment. We may recommend specific lens materials or care solutions that are more comfortable for dry eye sufferers.
What can I do at home to help manage my dry eye symptoms?
Simple measures like using a humidifier, taking regular screen breaks, staying hydrated, and wearing sunglasses outdoors can complement your professional treatment plan.
