Dry Eye Syndrome – Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

Dry eye is a common condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to have clear vision and maintain the eye's health and the clarity of the eye surface. Symptoms include burning, gritty, red, blurry vision, and the feeling of something stuck. Although it's usually not vision-threatening, it interferes with comfort and visual function.

At Sault Vision Clinic P.C. in Sault Ste. Marie, MI, we diagnose and manage dry eye syndrome as part of our comprehensive eye care services. Early detection and treatment are crucial to avoid complications and improve the quality of life. The condition increases with age, particularly above 50, and is more significant in postmenopausal women. Other risk factors are extended contact lens wear, some medications, autoimmune disorders, and spending long periods watching screens.

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Service Breakdown

Diagnosis

1. Comprehensive Eye Examination: Doctors evaluate the eyes, eyelids, and tear-producing structures to assess ocular health and identify surface abnormalities or eyelid conditions.
2. Tear Film Evaluation: Tests include measuring tear production (e.g., Schirmer test) and assessing tear film stability (tear breakup time) to determine dryness severity.
3. Eyelid Oil Gland Check: Eyelid (meibomian) gland health is checked, as dysfunction can lead to poor tear quality. Blocked or inflamed glands often contribute to chronic dry eye.
4. Surface Staining Test: Fluorescent or green dyes highlight dry or damaged areas of the cornea and conjunctiva.
5. Advanced Imaging: The clinic employs high-resolution imaging devices, such as the Carl Zeiss Meditec Cirrus HD-OCT, to visualize the retina, optic nerve, and anterior segment to assist in diagnosis.
6. Patient History and Symptoms: Doctors review medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors (e.g., computer use) to identify contributors to dry eye.
7. Contact Lens Evaluation: Contact lens wear is evaluated in patients, and fit and material influence the tear film quality and comfort.

Treatment

1. Lubricating Eye Drops: Over-the-counter artificial tears or prescription lubricating eye drops help moisten your eyes and relieve dryness symptoms.
2. Prescription Medications: Our doctors may recommend medicated eye drops or ointments that augment natural tear production if inflammation is found.
3. Punctal Plugs: Tiny devices can be placed in tear drainage ducts to conserve natural tears on the eye surface, increasing moisture.
4. Eyelid Hygiene and Warm Compresses: For patients with gland dysfunction or blepharitis, regular eyelid cleaning and warm compresses can improve meibomian gland function and stabilize the tear film.
5. Environmental and Lifestyle Adjustments: Recommendations include using a humidifier, taking breaks from digital screens, performing blink exercises, and wearing wrap-around glasses outdoors to reduce tear evaporation.
6. Contact Lens Options: Specialty contact lenses may be fitted to maintain hydration and comfort for patients with significant dry eye. Scleral lenses vault over the cornea and hold a fluid reservoir for continuous hydration.
7. Adjunct Therapies: Doctors may recommend specialized in-office treatments to improve meibomian gland function and enhance tear quality based on each patient's needs.

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Technology & Unique Features

• Essilor Visioffice with EyeCode: This system accurately measures and fits eyeglass lenses. The pioneering device takes many facial and ocular measurements to produce personalized lenses based on the patient's prescription and lifestyle.
• Carl Zeiss Meditec Cirrus HD-OCT: This is a high-definition optical coherence tomography system that performs retinal, optic nerve, and anterior eye imaging to diagnose and monitor eye disease. However, the clinic also offers an array of contact lens fittings, such as dry eye contacts.

There is also a spacious in-house frame dispensary stocked with the latest designer frames, with both budget and high-end options to provide patients with the frame that fits their vision and style requirements.

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Meet the Experts

• Peter Merchand, O.D.: Dr. Merchand, a Michigan College of Optometry graduate, is a member of the American and Michigan Optometric Associations. He offers thorough eye examinations and informs patients about preventing eye diseases.

• Emily Miszewski, O.D.: Dr. Miszewski, a graduate of the Michigan College of Optometry (after earning her undergraduate degree at Central Michigan University), is committed to conducting comprehensive health screenings. Alongside Dr. Merchand, she collaborates to track each patient's eye health over the years.

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Insurance & Payment Details

• Insurance: Accepted insurers include VSP, EyeMed, Heritage, Meritain, Medicare, and Blue Cross Blue Shield (medical). Patients should confirm their individual coverage with the office; the clinic also accepts most other medical insurance plans for eye care.
• Payment: The clinic takes cash, personal checks, and major credit/debit cards (MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express).

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Schedule Your Eye Examination

Contact Sault Vision Clinic P.C. today to request an eye exam if you are experiencing dry eye symptoms or are concerned with eye comfort. Call our Sault Ste. Marie's office to set an appointment or visit our website.