Vision Therapy in Greater Lowell

Age-Related Dry Eye: Causes and Solutions

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Addressing the Challenges of Dry Eyes As We Age

As we age, our bodies undergo various transformations, including changes in our eye health. One common age-related condition that many individuals encounter is dry eye syndrome. Understanding the factors contributing to this condition and how to manage it effectively becomes increasingly crucial as we age.

Dry eye syndrome in older adults often arises from a combination of factors related to aging and other external influences.

woman with sore eyes

Exploring Age-Related Factors Contributing to Dry Eye

man inspecting medication

  • Tear Gland Function

    Our tear gland function may decline as we age, leading to reduced tear production. This decrease in tear volume can result in dryness and discomfort.

  • Environmental Factors

    Seniors may encounter different environmental conditions that exacerbate dry eye symptoms, such as increased indoor heating or air conditioning systems.

  • Medications That Can Cause Dry Eye

    Certain medications commonly prescribed to older adults, such as hypertension tablets, can have side effects that contribute to dry eyes. It's essential to understand how these drugs may impact your eye health.

  • Underlying Medical Conditions

    Age-related health conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, can also increase the risk of dry eye syndrome. Managing these conditions is integral to overall eye health.

Eye Comfort Strategies as We Grow Older

Age-related dry eye does not have to be a constant source of discomfort. With the guidance of eye care professionals, seniors can explore various treatment options to alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life.

  • Customized Treatment Plans

    Eye care specialists can create personalized treatment plans tailored to address the specific needs of seniors with dry eye syndrome.

  • Lifestyle Modifications

    Simple adjustments to daily routines, such as incorporating humidifiers in living spaces or using preservative-free artificial tears, can significantly improve eye comfort.

  • Medication Management

    In cases where medications contribute to dry eye, healthcare providers can explore alternative treatments or adjustments to minimize side effects.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for monitoring age-related eye conditions, allowing for early detection and intervention when necessary.

Patient Reviews
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119 Reviews
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- Sep. 12, 2024
I’ve been going to doctor Karelekas for many years! He is great at his job and he has the nicest p... ersonality! I would definitely recommend him to anyone!
- Jul. 12, 2024
Dr. Karalekas is awesome! He conducts thorough and high-quality eye exams without rushing through ap... pointments. His genuine concern for your eye health is evident, ensuring that you receive detailed answers to any questions, making it a natural, comfortable, and informative experience. Dr. K's commitment to personalized care makes this practice highly recommended!
- Jul. 12, 2023
Great eye care. Very helpful and friendly staff. Dr. Sikalis is an amazing Optometrist. Highly recom... mend.
- Mar. 21, 2023
Great experience! My concerns were listened to and everything was explained very clearly to help wit... h my dry eyes. Tori and Debbie were extremely helpful when I was picking out glasses. I'm very indecisive and they both had great patience and gave me great advice!
- Nov. 12, 2022
Very professional. Well organized. Dr. Sikalis takes time to explain everything to you. Great plac... e!!
- Nov. 09, 2022
Very thorough with eye exams and staff is so warm and friendly!
- Oct. 07, 2022
A long term patient of Steve Sikalis, I can’t say enough about the care and consideration I receiv... e. Steve takes the time to explain everything to me and I know he joins me in advocating for my eye health. Proficient and friendly; that’s what I want in my health care professionals. Dr Sikalis is all that and more.
- Sep. 28, 2022
Very nice stuffs. . On time appointments. Happy to be there .
- Jul. 28, 2022
Been going here for years. Staff is always pleasant, and Dr. Sikalis is wonderful!
- Jul. 27, 2022
Loved
- Jun. 29, 2022
I brought my dad here as a new patient, Dr. Harney is very efficient, took his time and explain ever... ything relating to diabetic eye disease.
- Apr. 28, 2022
Very friendly coming in. The doctor took time in explaining his findings and what they meant. Friend... ly with helping pick out glasses.
- Apr. 07, 2022
Dr Chris K is such an awesome human being. He has taken care of my dad and daughter’s eyes for yea... rs. The team is amazing at this practice. I strongly recommend Advanced Eye Care Associates.
- Mar. 30, 2022
The staff was kind and efficient! I would definitely recommend Advanced Eye Associates!
- Mar. 17, 2022
I really liked this place and was comfortable being there.. very nice people here.. would definitely... recommend it
- Feb. 21, 2022
Very friendly, very efficient, thorough eye exam. Doctor took the time to talk and explain. Everyb... ody works together seamlessly - it is obviously a very well-run office, and it is also obvious that everybody loves working there and being a part of the team. Wife had diabetes, glaucoma, and other conditions. She went here for several years and loved them and the care she got. They took good care of her, and she - and I - couldn't say enough nice things about them.
- Feb. 17, 2022
Dr Sikalis is an excellent educator on your eye health and well-being. Glad I found this office many... years ago.
- Feb. 01, 2022
Gone there for years, everyone is so nice and helpful!
- Jan. 28, 2022
They are very friendly ,very professional They explained everything to me what's going on I was very... pleased with the service i would recommend it to everyone.
- Jan. 25, 2022
I had the BEST experience at Advanced Eye Care with Dr. Karalekas! I was in need of an immediate ap... pointment, and found this practice on the VSP website under their premier office listings. The staff was extremely professional and helpful, and booked a same-day appointment for my emergency. Dr. Karalekas was kind, empathetic, and had a wonderful manner with me as a patient. He addressed all my concerns and was able to refer me to a specialist (also the same day!) for a second opinion on my issue. The staff at Advanced Eye Care Associates was wonderful and I'll be switching my routine wellness visits to this office. I was so pleased and happy to have found this practice on a quick search, and am looking forward to receiving my regular care here. Thank you again from a very satisfied NEW patient!!!

View All 119 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Greater Lowell

(978) 452-0127

Our optometry practice in Greater Lowell

Meet our Eye Doctors

Photograph of Steven P. Sikalis
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
    1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
  • Nov. 28 Closed
  • Nov. 29 Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

man in examination

Advanced EyeCare Associates Prioritizes Your Vision and Comfort

As we journey through life, aging brings changes to our bodies, including our eyes. By understanding the causes and effective management of age-related dry eye, you can enjoy improved eye comfort and clarity, enhancing your well-being in your golden years.

Call Advanced EyeCare Associates today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and discuss personalized dry eye strategies.

(978) 452-0127

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