Vision Therapy in Brentwood

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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- Sep. 16, 2024
Quick and easy! The Conn Vision team addressed the issue in record time. Thank you!
- Jul. 24, 2024
Knowledgable, patient staff, great service.
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Great staff!
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Dr. Patel is excellent! She listens to my questions and provides solutions based on my history and n... eeds.
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- May. 11, 2024
Wonderful helpful staff paired with excellent optometrists.
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Timely, good location and great staff - special shoutout to Dawn for all her help!
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I was treated so kindly and the staff was very professional?
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Have been going to them for about 5 years. Have consistently received the best services.
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Very attentive to my sons and I. Great experience!
- Aug. 23, 2023
Dr. is great and Chris is always so helpful! Staff is so nice! I love coming to my doctor appointme... nts!
- Jun. 05, 2023
Highly recommend! Dr Krieg is professional yet friendly, knowledgeable and offers alternatives they ... best suit your eye situation and care.
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Excellent and attentive care and service from beginning to end.
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This place is amazing! The customer service is out of this world.
- Mar. 05, 2023
Best visit ever!!! I was pleased with the care I received. I will refer any and everyone to Conn Vi... sion.
- Jan. 31, 2023
Great first experience. Easy computer paperwork. Swift testing. Happy with Dr. Krieg and her friendl... y, super helpful staff. Got my lenses ordered for my existing frames and will update this review on delivery of the new RX.
- Jan. 19, 2023
Dr. Krieg took Dr. Conn's place after he retired, and I was very fond of him, but she fid a thorough... and excellent eye examination. I am just as pleased as ever with the friendly, professional and expert eye services. The staff on that office is awesome too, and they price- match on my contact lenses! Highly recommend!
- Dec. 01, 2022
I called for an appointment for a new condition. I was seen promptly and treated correctly.
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Simply the best in every way.
- Aug. 29, 2022
Best vision appointment I’ve ever had! Staff was super friendly and nice, communication was clear,... and there was little to no wait.

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Dry Eyes in Brentwood

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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 Conn Vision, 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!

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