Dry Eye

Dr. Velasquez evaluates and treats dry eye, a common condition for many in South Texas. Dry Eye is usually not a simple fix. Depending on the cause of dry eye Dr. Velasquez can offer a variety of treatment options including drops and minor procedures.

What is Dry Eye?

Our eyes need tears to stay healthy and comfortable. If your eyes do not make enough tears, it is called dry eye. Dry eye also happens when tears are not made of the right mix of elements or when the tear film is not as it should be.

Symptoms of
Dry Eye

R

You feel like your eyes are stinging and burning

R

There is a scratchy or gritty feeling like something is in your eye

R

There are strings of mucus in or around your eyes

R

Your eyes are red or irritated. This is especially true when you are in wind or near cigarette smoke

R

It is painful to wear contact lenses

R

You have lots of tears in your eyes

Having a lot of tears in your eyes with “dry eye” might sound odd. But your eyes make more tears when they are irritated by dry eye.

What causes Dry Eye?

People tend to make fewer tears as they get older due to hormonal changes. Both men and women can get dry eye. However, it is more common in women — especially those who have gone through menopause.

Here are some causes of dry eye:

R

Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, thyroid disease, and lupus

R

Blepharitis (when eyelids are swollen or red)

R

Entropion (when eyelids turn in); ectropion (eyelids turn outward)

R

Being in smoke, wind or a very dry climate

R

Looking at a computer for a long time, reading other activities that reduce blinking

R

Using contact lenses for a long time

R

Having refractive surgery, such as LASIK

R

Taking certain medicines, such as:

  • Diuretics (water pills) for high blood pressure
  • Beta-blockers, for heart problems or high blood pressure
  • Allergy and cold medicines (antihistamines)
  • Sleeping pills
  • Anxiety and antidepressant medicines
  • Heartburn medicines

Tell the doctor about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take.

If you feel your eyes do not make enough tears, contact Dr. Velasquez for a diagnosis and treatment options to.

Request an Appointment

Main Clinic- Castle Hills

6810 West Avenue, Suite B
San Antonio, Texas, 78213

See Map >

Surgery Center- American Surgery Center

12838 Vista del Norte
San Antonio, TX, 78216​

See Map >

Monday - Friday

Phone

Fax

Email