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Understanding Dry Eye in Older Adults

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Dry eye syndrome is a common condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears or lose them too quickly, leaving the eye surface dry and irritated. It is especially important for older adults as natural changes in tear production and eyelid function can lead to discomfort and reduced visual quality. Our eye doctors are here to help guide you through understanding and managing dry eye as you age. Associated Eye Physicians & Surgeons of NJ proudly offers eye care at four convenient locations: Belleville serving Essex County, Rahway serving Middlesex and Union Counties, Jersey City serving Hudson County, and Union serving Union County.

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Dr. Amanda Gredzik, OD

Dr. Amanda Gredzik is an optometrist with a strong focus on therapeutic eye care, specializing in dry eye treatment, including the use of amniotic membranes and punctal plugs.

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The Connection Between Age and Dry Eye Syndrome

Your comprehensive eye exam is designed to give you a complete picture of both your vision and the health of your eyes. The process unfolds in several clear steps, ensuring that every aspect of your visual system is examined with care.

Here’s what typically happens during your visit:

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Managing Dry Eye in Older Adults

For those experiencing dry eye syndrome as part of the aging process, several management strategies can provide relief and improve overall eye comfort. Our eye doctors emphasize that treatment should be personal and tailored to each patient’s specific situation. Factors such as glandular loss, hormonal changes, and a natural decrease in tear production mean that management strategies should be individually customized. The key to success is addressing the underlying cause or causes of the symptoms, then creating a tailored treatment plan to address them. Treatment often includes a variety of options, from lifestyle and medication modifications, to medication and in-office treatments.

What Exactly is
Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome – sometimes referred to as dry eye disease or keratoconjunctivitis sicca – happens when the eyes lose sufficient moisture to keep them comfortable and healthy. Tears play a crucial role in lubricating, nourishing, and protecting the front surface of the eye, the cornea, as well as surrounding tissues. When tear production or tear quality is compromised, symptoms such as dryness, irritation, redness, and even blurred vision may occur.

In older adults, dry eye symptoms can manifest in ways that affect everyday activities like reading, using digital devices, or even driving. Here are some common signs that may indicate dry eye syndrome:

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Next Steps 

If you’re an older adult experiencing frequent dry eye discomfort, you’re not alone, and help is available. Understanding the unique challenges that age brings to maintaining eye health is the first step. Our eye doctors are dedicated to offering personalized guidance and treatment options to help alleviate your symptoms and preserve your vision.

We encourage you to take the next step by scheduling an eye exam. Early detection and a tailored treatment plan can make all the difference in your experience of daily life. Don’t hesitate to call our office for personalized advice if you’re noticing increasing dryness, irritation, or discomfort in your eyes.

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How Does Aging
Impact the Eye?

Aging significantly influences eye health, contributing to both natural changes and the development of specific conditions. As we grow older, various structures of the eye undergo changes that can affect how well tears are produced and maintained. These changes can impact both vision and comfort.

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Why Regular Eye Examinations are Crucial for Older Adults

During a comprehensive eye exam, our eye doctors will assess:

Your Trusted Eye Doctors Serving Central and Northern NJ

At Associated Eye Physicians & Surgeons of New Jersey, we prioritize the comfort and health of our patients. Understanding and managing dry eye syndrome is crucial as you age. Our eye doctors are prepared to provide tailored treatment options that suit your needs. Experience personalized, expert eye care by scheduling an appointment with our eye doctors in Belleville, Jersey City, Rahway, or Union, NJ.

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Associated eye

At Associated Eye Physicians of NJ, we’ve built our reputation on care that’s local, personal, and easy to get to. With offices in Belleville, Union, Jersey City, and Rahway, we’re proud to serve a wide range of communities across North and Central Jersey. Our Belleville team welcomes patients from all over Essex County, including Newark, Bloomfield, and Nutley. Rahway welcomes patients from across Middlesex and Union Counties, including nearby patients from Elizabeth, Avenel, Woodbridge, and Perth Amboy. Our Union office is a favorite for families from Union County, especially for those in Elizabeth and Cranford. And in Jersey City, we care for Hudson County residents, including our neighbors in Hoboken and Bayonne.

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