Many people struggle with dry eye symptoms despite using lubricating drops every day. Fortunately, Family Eye Care offers cutting-edge dry eye treatment in Bristol that goes beyond temporary relief.
From in-office therapies like intense pulsed light therapy and radiofrequency therapy to gentle lid cleaning with ZEST eye treatment, patients can now address dry eyes at the source rather than only masking symptoms. These treatments target inflammation, oil gland blockages, and eyelid buildup, which are common causes of chronic dry eye.
Why eye drops are not helping with dry eye
Artificial tears add temporary moisture to the surface of the eyes, but they don’t address the root cause. For many people, dry eyes are caused by inflammation, blocked oil glands, or poor tear film quality, not just a lack of tears.
Overusing eye drops for dry eyes can also lead to a dependency cycle, where symptoms continue to return. If your eyes still feel dry after regular use, it’s best to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an eye care professional.
How to get rid of dry eyes without eye drops
At Family Eye Care in Bristol, patients have access to advanced dry eye treatments that relieve symptoms by restoring natural tear function. These therapies work without the need for constant eye drop use.
Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy
IPL therapy delivers gentle light pulses to the skin around the eyes. This non-invasive treatment helps reduce inflammation and unclog the meibomian glands. When these glands function properly, they produce the oils needed to keep your tears from evaporating too quickly.
IPL also improves circulation and reduces redness, making it a popular choice for patients with rosacea-related dry eye.
Radiofrequency (RF) therapy
RF therapy uses controlled heat to stimulate collagen production and melt oil blockages in the eyelids. This therapy gently warms the skin and underlying tissues, encouraging better gland function and more stable tears.
Many patients find RF relaxing and notice improved eye comfort after just a few sessions. It also helps tighten skin and reduce eyelid laxity, which may contribute to dry eye symptoms.
ZEST lid cleaning treatment
ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) is a professional-grade deep cleaning treatment for the eyelids and lashes. It removes debris, bacteria, and biofilm that build up around the lash line. These irritants can interfere with gland function and worsen dry eye symptoms.
Unlike at-home scrubs, ZEST treatment uses a natural okra-based gel to gently exfoliate and cleanse the lids without irritation. It leaves the eyes feeling refreshed and can be repeated as needed.
Combining treatments for long-term relief
Many of our patients benefit from a customized treatment plan that combines IPL, RF, and ZEST. These therapies work together to improve oil gland function, reduce inflammation, and clean the eyelid margins. As a result, your eyes can begin producing and maintaining healthy, stable tears on their own.
This approach targets the root causes of dry eye disease rather than providing short-term relief like eye drops.
Daily habits that support dry eye relief
Even with professional treatments, small changes at home can go a long way to keep your eyes comfortable:
- Use a warm compress daily to keep oil glands flowing
- Take screen breaks every 20 minutes to blink fully and rest your eyes
- Stay hydrated to support natural tear production
- Clean your eyelids gently with a lid scrub or eyelid wipes
- Consider a humidifier if indoor air feels dry
- Limit fans and direct air blowing into your eyes
Consistency with these habits can reduce discomfort and help maintain the results of your professional treatment.
When to seek professional dry eye care
If your eyes feel gritty, sandy, or tired most days, even after using eye drops, it’s time to explore professional treatment options. Severe dry eyes can affect your vision, productivity, and quality of life. By identifying the source of your symptoms and creating a personalized care plan, you can find real, lasting relief.
Family Eye Care in Bristol offers advanced diagnostics and in-office solutions tailored to your eyes’ specific needs. Find out which treatment fits your needs best by scheduling an appointment. Call us today at 860-584-5528 or request an appointment online.