Vision Therapy in Rigden Farm

Medications That Can Cause Dry Eyes

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Dry Eye Syndrome as a Side Effect

Dry eye syndrome can result from various causes, including certain types of medications that have been identified as potential contributors to this condition. Typically, this occurs as a side effect of the medication's primary purpose.

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Common Medications Associated with Dry Eye Syndrome

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Many people may not realize that their drugs can contribute to dry eye symptoms. These medications can affect tear quantity or alter the quality of tear composition.

It's essential to recognize that dry eye can be a potential side effect of various medications. This can go a long way in finding the most appropriate treatment options.

  • Acne Medicine: Retinoids for Severe Acne

    If you're dealing with severe and painful cystic acne, your primary physician may have prescribed retinoid drugs. These medications work by diminishing the production of facial oils, but unfortunately, they can also reduce the amount of lubricating oils in your tears, contributing to dry eyes.

  • Antihistamines for Allergy Relief

    Antihistamine drugs can be vital for allergy sufferers, alleviating symptoms like sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes. However, they can have the unintended side effect of reducing tear production, leading to dry eye symptoms.

  • Sleeping Pills, Certain Antidepressants, and Medications for Parkinson's Disease

    Medications in these categories often work by blocking some nerve cell signals. While they may help with their intended purposes, they can also interfere with the signals that stimulate tear production, potentially causing dry eye symptoms.

  • Hypertension Drugs

    Beta-blockers are commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure by blocking the body's response to adrenaline. While they can be effective in this regard, they also slow the heartbeat and reduce the force of blood on arteries. These drugs can also lead to a decrease in aqueous tear production, resulting in dry eye symptoms.

  • Hormones and Birth Control Pills

    Certain hormone pills, particularly estrogen-only formulations, have been linked to dry eye syndrome. These medications can affect tear composition and contribute to dry eye symptoms.

  • Pain Relievers: Over-the-Counter Medications

    Some over-the-counter medications, such as high doses of ibuprofen, may lead to dry eye symptoms. They can decrease tear secretion and cause eye discomfort.


Dealing with Dry Eye-Related Side Effects

While the list of medications above offers some insight into the typical culprits behind dry eye, it's crucial to remember that dry eye symptoms can emerge as an unexpected side effect of various medications or combinations of drugs.

It is important to note that you should never stop taking your prescribed medications without explicit guidance from your healthcare provider. Doing so without professional oversight could result in more severe health problems and may not necessarily alleviate symptoms of dry eyes.

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Patient Reviews
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- Oct. 11, 2024
I was recommended to transfer my eye care here and it was a great recommendation! Office staff is fr... iendly and attentive and Dr. German is clearly very knowledgeable. Will definitely continue being a patient here!
- Oct. 04, 2024
Staff is very friendly and Dr. Kelly is amazing.
- Aug. 09, 2024
Office has high-tech equipment and knowledgeable staff. Dr. Gregory Abel is very pleasant, and extre... mely good at both vision assessment and identifying potential diseases. After age 40, an annual check-up is highly recommended.
- Jul. 30, 2024
Found Mountain View Eye Specialists because I was looking for a place near one of my job sites at th... e time and I have now been with them for 4 years. I live about 30 minutes away but I continue to go because I like the staff the doctors and the selection they have.
- Jul. 29, 2024
Fantastic Doctors and care received here!
- Jul. 01, 2024
Dr Kelly is incredible! I've never had an eye exam like this before, she makes sure my eyes are rela... xed and nearly eliminated my end of day headaches!
- Jun. 28, 2024
Caring and competent team- I highly recommend Mountain View Eye Specialists!
- Jun. 11, 2024
I love Mountain View Eye Specialist! The entire staff is so sweet and walk you through the what it h... appening. They are so kind and put me at ease during the appointment. The glasses/frames consultants are also amazing! The helped me find an amazing first pair of glasses and hyped me up to try a new style during my last visit! Could not recommend this place enough
- Jun. 08, 2024
Everybody is wonderful at Mountain View Eye Specialist!!!
- May. 21, 2024
Dr Amy Abel found a conversion insufficiency with my eyes that no other physician found and exercise... therapy has helped me tremendously Her staff is courteous and friendly Elizabeth Ishmael
- May. 16, 2024
I have been going here for a few years now -- they are always friendly and helpful!
- Apr. 27, 2024
Doctors Amy and Greg are amazing. Their expertise and knowledge are complimented by compassion and c... aring for their patients. They are a rarity in the medical realm in that their first and foremost desire is the welfare and healing of their clients. Quality of the entire staff is outstanding! Know you are with the best of the best when experiencing their diligent work for the good of every client.
- Mar. 30, 2024
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Kelly for an eye exam, and I must say, the experience wa... s nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I stepped into the clinic, I was greeted with warmth and professionalism. The atmosphere was welcoming, and the staff were incredibly helpful, making the entire process smooth and comfortable. Dr. Kelly stands out not just for her expertise but also for her ability to connect with patients on a personal level. She took the time to thoroughly explain each step of the examination, ensuring that I was comfortable and informed throughout. Her attention to detail and genuine concern for my eye health was evident, making me feel valued and well-cared for. What impressed me most was Dr. Kelly’s dedication to using the latest technology and her knowledge to provide the best possible care. She answered all my questions with patience and provided me with valuable advice on maintaining my eye health. I left the clinic feeling reassured and well-informed about my eye health. It’s clear that Dr. Kelly and her team go above and beyond for their patients, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. If you’re looking for an optometrist who truly cares about your well-being, Dr. Kelly is the one to see.
- Mar. 28, 2024
Dr Kelly was amazing! She was an attentive listener, and provided thorough explanations and recommen... dations without any pressure. Her knowledge and patience, especially with my inquisitive child, were much appreciated.
- Mar. 09, 2024
We love Dr. Amy, Dr. Greg & Dr. Kelly- our family has seen them all! They all take the time and care... with each of us and make us feel special. I know my family’s eye care is in the BEST hands!!
- Feb. 27, 2024
Doctors Amy and Greg have been treating our family since they opened. Very attentive and knowledgeab... le.
- Feb. 22, 2024
Best ophthalmologist ever. Appointments are extremely fast, no eye dilation is required, but you sti... ll have a full retinal exam, the doctor is extremely knowledgeable and the doctor explains everything she is looking at. Also great selection of glasses
- Feb. 17, 2024
I had an eye emergency and tried to get in everywhere in town with no luck until I called Mountain V... iew. Even though they had no availability got me in last minute on a Friday afternoon and took great care of me. They were professional and thorough and I would recommend them to anyone who asked. I am incredibly grateful for their compassion and willingness to help.
- Jan. 05, 2024
Dr. Abel and his staff were so thorough, helpful and professional. At every turn, I felt like I was ... spending the afternoon with friends. I’m so glad I found this office!
- Nov. 14, 2023
Amazing staff! Very welcoming and comforting! Had no issues while there and the process from one roo... m to the next was smooth and seamless! Great work guys!

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Dry Eyes in Rigden Farm

Our optometry practice in Rigden Farm

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Dry Eye Management and Treatment

If you find yourself experiencing dry eye symptoms in connection with your medication regimen, the most prudent course of action is to promptly seek consultation with both your eye specialist and primary care physician.

This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, enabling healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action to manage and alleviate dry eye-related side effects.

At Mountain View Eye Specialists, we'll evaluate your condition and medical history to determine the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan. Take the first step towards a healthier you—schedule an appointment today and let us guide you on the path to wellness!

(970) 224-9880