Dry eyes and eye allergies are common conditions affecting millions worldwide. Both can cause discomfort and disrupt daily activities, but their causes, symptoms, and treatments differ significantly. Understanding these differences is crucial, especially when considering advanced treatments like Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Radiofrequency with InMode, which have shown promising results in treating dry eye syndrome.
Below, our trusted Shelburne eye care team discusses the difference between dry eye syndrome and eye allergies and how we can help.
Distinguishing Between Dry Eye Syndrome and Eye Allergies
Inadequate tear production or poor tear quality primarily causes dry eye syndrome, which results in insufficient lubrication of the eye's surface. Factors contributing to this condition include aging, side effects from prescription and over-the-counter medications, environmental conditions, and prolonged screen use. Common symptoms of dry eye syndrome include a stinging or burning sensation, redness, a gritty feeling, and occasionally watery eyes.
Pollen, dust, pet dander, or certain chemicals in the air trigger eye allergies. These allergies cause the immune system to respond with inflammation, causing symptoms like itching, redness, swelling, and watery discharge.
The key differentiator between dry eyes and allergies is itchiness, predominantly associated with allergies and not with dry eye syndrome. You should also note whether your symptoms worsen when around common sources of allergens, such as pollen or animals, or if they get better after taking antihistamines. In this case, allergies are likely the cause. If you experience discomfort that persists even when there are no allergens present, along with a gritty sensation or visual fatigue, it is more likely that dry eye syndrome is causing these symptoms.
Advantages of IPL & Radiofrequency with InMode
If you’ve been diagnosed with dry eye syndrome, traditional treatments like artificial tears or warm compresses often provide temporary relief. However, at Shelburne Primary EyeCare, we are proud to offer longer-lasting solutions by introducing technologies like IPL and Radiofrequency with InMode. IPL technology targets inflammation and abnormalities in the eyelid's oil glands, which can often be the underlying cause of dry eye symptoms. This treatment alleviates discomfort, helps normalize tear film, and improves overall eye health.
Radiofrequency treatment uses energy waves to heat deeper layers of the skin gently, stimulating collagen production and promoting better circulation. This can lead to improved gland function and healthier eyelid skin, which can significantly help with tear production and cut down on dry eye symptoms.
Recognizing whether you have dry eye syndrome or eye allergies is the first step toward receiving the right treatment. While both conditions share some symptoms, they have distinct triggers and require different approaches for management. With advanced technologies like IPL and Radiofrequency with InMode, patients with dry eye syndrome who visit our Shelburne eye clinic now have access to innovative treatments that offer substantial improvements in symptoms and eye health.