Advanced Diagnostic Testing for Dry Eye: What to Expect

Dry eye is a common yet often overlooked condition that can significantly affect your quality of life. It occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears lack the proper composition to keep the eyes lubricated. Symptoms such as irritation, redness, burning, blurred vision, and the sensation of something in your eye can all indicate dry eye. If left untreated, dry eye can lead to more serious complications, such as inflammation or damage to the eye’s surface. At Lauren Alexander Vision Source, we prioritize accurate diagnosis and effective treatment through advanced diagnostic testing for dry eye.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, hormonal changes, environmental conditions, prolonged screen use, or certain medical conditions like autoimmune diseases. The condition involves either decreased tear production or increased tear evaporation due to dysfunction in the tear film, which consists of three layers: the lipid, aqueous, and mucin layers.

Understanding the specific cause of your dry eye is crucial to creating a tailored treatment plan. Let’s explore the tools we use and what you can expect during your visit.

TearLab Osmolarity Testing

The TearLab system measures the osmolarity (salt concentration) of your tears, which can indicate the severity of dry eye. High osmolarity levels suggest an imbalance in the tear film, making this test a valuable tool for assessing tear quality.

InflammaDry

InflammaDry detects the presence of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), a marker of inflammation commonly found in dry eye patients. This quick and simple test helps determine whether inflammation is a contributing factor to your symptoms, guiding treatment decisions.

Meibomian Gland Photography

The Meibomian glands, located in your eyelids, play a crucial role in preventing tear evaporation. If these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, dry eye can worsen. Using specialized imaging technology, we capture detailed photographs of the glands to assess their structure and function. This helps identify issues like meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a leading cause of evaporative dry eye.

The Value of Prompt Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of dry eye is essential for maintaining long-term eye health and preventing complications. When detected early, the underlying causes of dry eye can be addressed before they lead to chronic discomfort, inflammation, or damage to the eye's surface. Early intervention allows for personalized treatment plans that can halt the progression of the condition, improve tear film stability, and alleviate symptoms, enhancing overall quality of life. Additionally, timely diagnosis minimizes the risk of secondary issues, such as infections or vision impairment, ensuring that patients maintain clear, comfortable vision.

Benefits of Advanced Diagnostic Testing

•       Accurate Diagnosis: By pinpointing the exact cause of your dry eye, these tests ensure that the treatment addresses the root problem rather than just the symptoms.

•       Personalized Treatment Plans: Each patient’s dry eye is unique. Diagnostic testing helps create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

•       Improved Outcomes: With precise information, treatments can be more effective, leading to faster relief and better long-term eye health.

•       Monitoring Progress: Advanced tests also allow us to track the success of treatments over time, ensuring adjustments can be made as needed.

Experience Advanced Dry Eye Care at Lauren Alexander
Vision Source Today

Addressing dry eye through advanced diagnostic testing and early diagnosis is key to preserving your eye health and improving your quality of life. By identifying the root causes of dry eye, we can create targeted, effective treatment plans that provide lasting relief and prevent further complications. We are committed to using cutting-edge technology to ensure you receive the best possible care.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye, schedule a consultation with Lauren Alexander Vision Source. With advanced diagnostic tools like, we’ll help you find relief and protect your vision for years to come. Visit our Shaven Park or Potranco office, located in San Antonio, Texas. Please call (210) 239-2020 or (210) 317-2020 book an appointment today.