Dry Eye Care
Dry eye care starts with evaluating symptoms such as irritation, burning or fluctuating vision and considering possible contributing factors. Westminster Eye Care Associates provides dry eye evaluations for people with these concerns in Providence. Schedule an appointment to discuss your symptoms, daily activities and eye health with a doctor.
Dry eye is a common condition with a range of possible causes — and symptoms that can vary widely from one person to the next. Our team evaluates your specific situation and works with you on a care approach tailored to your needs.
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye occurs when the eye does not produce enough tears, or when the tears that are produced evaporate too quickly or do not provide adequate lubrication. The tear film is more complex than it might seem — it has multiple layers, and a problem with any of them can contribute to symptoms.
Because dry eye has multiple underlying mechanisms, what works well for one patient may not be the right approach for another. A thorough evaluation helps identify the factors most relevant to your situation.
Why Eyes May Feel Dry — or Watery
Dry eye does not always feel like dryness. Some patients experience a persistent watery or tearing sensation — this can occur when the eye produces excessive reflex tears in response to irritation from inadequate baseline lubrication.
Other contributing factors may include environmental conditions, prolonged screen use, certain medications, contact lens wear, underlying health conditions, hormonal changes, or the natural process of aging. Your doctor will discuss which factors may be relevant to your symptoms.
Symptoms Worth Discussing With Your Doctor
If you experience any of the following, they may be worth raising at your next visit:
- Persistent dryness, burning, or stinging
- A scratchy or gritty feeling
- Redness or irritation
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision that fluctuates or clears with blinking
- Excessive tearing or watery eyes
- Discomfort with contact lens wear
- Tired or heavy-feeling eyes
What an Evaluation May Include
An evaluation for dry eye may include a review of your symptoms and health history, an assessment of the quantity and quality of your tear film, and an examination of the front surface of the eye and eyelids. The findings will guide your doctor's recommendations.
Individualized Care
Because dry eye can have many contributing causes, care approaches vary. Your doctor will discuss options that may be appropriate for your specific situation and explain what to expect. We do not offer a single universal protocol for all patients, and we do not guarantee particular outcomes.
Management may be an ongoing process, and follow-up visits are often part of effective care.
Contact Lenses and Dry Eye
Contact lens wear can contribute to or worsen dry eye symptoms in some patients. If you wear contact lenses and are experiencing dryness or discomfort, discuss this with your doctor. Adjustments to lens type, wearing schedule, or care routine may help — or a period away from lenses may be recommended. Your doctor will help you evaluate the options.
When to Seek Prompt Attention
If you experience sudden changes in vision, significant eye pain, or symptoms that feel different from your usual dry eye discomfort, call our office promptly. For severe pain, sudden vision loss, or a potential eye emergency, seek immediate medical attention.
This page provides general educational information and is not a substitute for an examination, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation from a qualified eye-care professional.
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Medicaid and most insurance accepted.