Dry eye is defined as a condition in which there is inadequate tear production, abnormalities with tear fluid, or a problem with the film that covers the eyes. When we provide eye care to people in St. George, UT, at Stone Canyon Eye Care, we first want to differentiate if your dry eyes are a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as Sjogren’s Syndrome.
What is Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which your immune system attacks the glands that moisten your eyes and mouth. It also causes several other symptoms. Sjogren’s Syndrome affects women more than men, and it is typically diagnosed in people who are between 40 and 50 years old. Some patients with Sjogren’s Syndrome have other autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis. To receive appropriate eye care for your dry eyes, you must be evaluated by an eye doctor to receive an accurate diagnosis.
Diagnosing Sjogren’s Syndrome and Aqueous Deficiency
When you see an eye doctor at our optometry practice in St. George, UT, we determine if Sjogren’s Syndrome is the reason for your dry eyes. An optometrist diagnoses aqueous deficiency with Sjogren’s Syndrome by checking your tear production, tear ducts, and other areas of your eye. We may also perform a saliva test and recommend imaging tests and bloodwork.
Eye Care for Aqueous Deficiency with Sjogren’s Syndrome
Sjogren’s Syndrome cannot be cured, so our St. George, UT, optometrist focuses on managing your dry eye symptoms. An experienced eye care professional will start with the most conservative eye care treatment options, such as eye drops or ointments. If you continue to experience dry eye, we may recommend a procedure to block your tear ducts.
Learn More About Aqueous Deficiency with Sjogren’s Syndrome
Find out if your dry eye symptoms are related to Sjogren’s Syndrome. Call Stone Canyon Eye Care in St. George, UT, today at (435) 359-2020.