Dry eye is one of the most common eye conditions and varies greatly by individual. That is why the first step is understanding what is causing your symptoms. At Chico Eye Center, we use advanced diagnostic testing to evaluate your tear quality, tear production, and overall eye health so we can create a treatment plan that actually works. Our goal is to help you achieve clearer, more comfortable vision so you can get back to your daily life without irritation.
Dry eye develops when the eyes are not sufficiently and properly lubricated due to a disruption in the tear film. Having a healthy and adequate layer of tears on the eye is essential to keeping the eyes healthy, seeing well, and keeping them comfortable. There are two categories, aqueous deficient dry eye and evaporative dry eye. Around 80% of cases are diagnosed as evaporative dry eye.
With the right diagnosis and a customized treatment plan, most patients experience significant relief.
Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate tests based on your symptoms. These may include:
TearLab Testing
This quick and comfortable test measures the salt level in your tears. High salt levels can indicate dry eye disease and help us determine the severity of your condition.
Schirmer’s Test
This test measures how much tear production your eyes are generating. It helps identify whether your eyes are producing enough moisture to stay properly lubricated.
Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT)
This test evaluates how long your tear film stays stable after you blink. If tears evaporate too quickly, it can lead to irritation, redness, and fluctuating vision.
Once we understand the cause of your dry eye, we create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. Treatment may include:
At-Home and Natural Therapies
This may include warm compresses, eyelid hygiene, and lifestyle adjustments to support healthier tear production.
Over-the-Counter Solutions
Lubricating eye drops and other products can provide relief for mild to moderate symptoms when used correctly.
Prescription Medications
For more advanced cases, medicated eye drops can help reduce inflammation and improve tear production.
Autologous Serum Eye Drops
These customized eye drops, made from your own blood, are rich in natural growth factors and nutrients that help heal the ocular surface and provide relief for more severe dry eye symptoms.
Punctal Plugs
These tiny, comfortable inserts are placed in the tear ducts to help your eyes retain moisture longer.
Amniotic Membrane Therapy
This advanced treatment uses a natural healing tissue to repair the surface of the eye and reduce inflammation in more severe cases.
