Dry Eye in The Villages, FL

What is dry eye?

Tears keep the eye smooth, clean and comfortable. When there are too few tears, or they dry up too fast, the eye surface can become irritated and vision can blur.

Dry eye is often long lasting, but it is usually manageable. Dry air, wind, air conditioning and hours of reading or screen use can all play a part. Florida homes also use plenty of air conditioning.

Common symptoms

You may have a scratchy feeling, as if something is in the eye. Stinging or burning, red eyes and sensitivity to light are also common. Some people have blurry vision that clears when they blink.

Eye pain or a chemical splash needs prompt care.

Call right away if this happens. Sudden flashes of light, a shower of new floaters, a curtain over your vision, sudden vision loss or a chemical in the eye: call (352) 399-5412 right away, or go to the nearest emergency room.

Who is at risk?

• Adults age 50 and older, and women
• Contact lens wearers
• Long screen time and dry or windy air
• Low vitamin A or omega-3 intake
• Autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren syndrome
• Some medicines

What a dry eye visit looks like

When you come in for Dry Eye in The Villages, first tell us when your eyes feel worst. For example, mention mornings, long reading or time in the car with the air on. Then Dr. Russell looks at your eyes with a microscope. Tests may check how many tears you make, how fast they dry and how your eyelids look.

Also bring the name of any drops you use. Bring a list of your medicines too, because some medicines can dry the eyes.

Questions to ask your eye doctor

For example, ask which artificial tears suit you and how often to use them. You can also ask whether your medicines play a part. If you wear contact lenses, ask whether a different lens or wearing plan would feel better. Then ask when to come back, so you can see if your plan works.

Everyday tips

Because dry air and wind can bother your eyes, try to keep vents from blowing straight at your face. Also avoid smoke. If you live with Dry Eye in The Villages, notice which rooms and car vents bother you most. When you read or use a screen, take breaks. However, do not guess at which drops to buy. Ask us first, so you pick a product that fits your eyes.

When to call us

Call us if your eyes stay red, sore or blurry even after you use artificial tears. For example, tell us if symptoms last for weeks or if they keep you from reading. Also call if you have eye pain, because that needs prompt care. We would rather see you early, so we can find the cause and adjust your plan.

Treatment options

Mild dry eye often improves with over-the-counter artificial tears. Prescription drops may help in more serious cases. Tiny plugs can slow tear drainage. Surgery on the eyelids is rarely needed. A surgeon, not our office, would handle it.

Help With Dry Eye in The Villages

Our care for dry eye in The Villages starts with finding the cause of your symptoms. Dr. Russell builds a plan with you, including which drops to use and how to use them. We also check contact lens fit, since lenses can add to dryness. When another condition may play a part, we coordinate with your primary care doctor or a specialist.

Call (352) 399-5412 or request an appointment.

Our office is at 2478 Burnsed Blvd. We are open Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We welcome patients from The Villages, Lady Lake, Oxford, Summerfield, Wildwood and nearby.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with your eye doctor about your own eyes.

Common questions

Is dry eye serious?

It is often long lasting, but it is usually manageable. Your eye doctor can build a plan with you.

Do I need prescription drops?

Not always. Many people begin with artificial tears. Your eye doctor will tell you if you need more.

Can contact lenses make dry eye worse?

Yes, they can. Tell your eye doctor if your lenses feel dry, so we can check the fit.