What Is Dry Eye Disease and How Does It Affect You?
Dry, burning, gritty eyes can make every day uncomfortable, but effective treatment is available right here in Mandan. 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, and it is one of the most common reasons patients visit Vision Source Mandan.
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, and 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. Our team of experienced optometrists, Dr. Brittany Schauer, Dr. Wayne Aberle, and Dr. Danielle Dyke, offers advanced dry eye treatments tailored to your specific needs. dry eye treatments tailored to your specific needs.
What Causes Dry Eye in North Dakota?
| 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 |
During your comprehensive eye examination at Vision Source Mandan, we 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 providing temporary relief.
BlephEx 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. BlephEx is a gentle procedure that removes bacterial biofilm from your eyelid margins (similar to removing plaque at a dental cleaning), clears blockages from meibomian gland openings, eliminates bacterial toxins contributing to inflammation, takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete, and 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, and 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. When appropriate, we can prescribe specialized drops that help your eyes produce more natural tears. The Optase product line is available in our office for your convenience, including Dry Eye Intense drops for immediate relief, MGD Advanced drops for oil gland support, and HyloNight ointment for overnight protection. Nutritional supplements specifically formulated to support tear production and meibomian gland health from within are also available.
Managing Dry Eye Through North Dakota’s Seasons
Living in North Dakota means facing extreme seasonal changes that can significantly impact your dry eye symptoms. Understanding how different weather conditions affect your eyes helps you take preventive steps year-round.
Winter Dry Eye Challenges
North Dakota winters bring some of the harshest conditions for dry eye sufferers. Indoor heating systems remove moisture from the air, creating a desert-like environment inside your home and office. This low humidity causes tears to evaporate faster, leading to increased burning, irritation, and redness. Additionally, cold outdoor winds can trigger reflex tearing and worsen meibomian gland dysfunction.
To combat winter dry eye, consider using a humidifier in your bedroom and workspace to restore moisture to the air. Point heating vents away from your face, especially when driving. Apply warm compresses to your eyelids before bed to keep oil glands functioning properly, and use preservative-free lubricating drops more frequently throughout the day.
Summer Air Conditioning Effects
While summer offers relief from harsh winter conditions, air conditioning creates similar humidity problems indoors. Office buildings, cars, and homes with AC running constantly can be just as drying as winter heat. Wind from open car windows and outdoor activities in dry summer air also contribute to tear film evaporation.
During the summer months, adjust the AC vents so the airflow is not directed at your face. Wear wraparound sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from wind and reduce tear evaporation. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, as dehydration affects your body’s ability to produce quality tears.
Year-Round Protection
Regardless of season, maintaining consistent dry eye management provides the best results. Our BlephEx and iLux treatments address the underlying causes of dry eye, providing relief that lasts through seasonal changes. Regular use of Optase drops and nutritional supplements helps maintain your tear film stability year-round. If you notice your dry eye symptoms worsen with seasonal changes, contact Vision Source Mandan to adjust your treatment plan.
Why Choose Vision Source Mandan for Dry Eye Treatment?
At Vision Source Mandan, we believe everyone deserves to enjoy clear, comfortable vision. Our doctors have 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. 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 do not treat them as such.
Located at 107 6th Ave. NW in Mandan, ND, we are easily accessible to residents of Mandan, Bismarck, and surrounding communities. 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. Contact us today to schedule your dry eye evaluation and start finding relief from your symptoms.
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.