Vision Therapy in White Bear Lake

Age-Related Dry Eye: Causes and Solutions

(651) 426-2747
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.

Patient Reviews
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- Apr. 29, 2024
Everyone at this office is so friendly and fun! I had to bring my 3.5 month old and they made me fee... l so comfy doing that. Great experience. Got glasses back quick!
- Apr. 07, 2024
Very friendly and efficient staff and Doctor. Did not have to wait to get checked in and waited les... s than 5 mn to get into appointment. Doctor and staff took time to listen to my concerns. Everyone here is very professional and the offices are very nice and clean. Positive experience.
- Mar. 12, 2024
If you are looking for an eye clinic do check out Birch Lake Eye Clinic and Optical. Dr. Lucas is v... ery kind and knowledgeable and takes the time to explain things and all the staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful.
- Feb. 21, 2024
My entire family came here for our eye care. The Dr and staff were very friendly, patient and consid... erate when it came to our different vision needs and the special care we all needed. We are very satisfied with the service and our glasses we received. Thank you for your professionalism, patience, kindness, curtesy, expertise, experience, knowledge and skills. Your service was exceptional and I highly recommend your office to all my friends and family and to anyone looking for good service.
- Jan. 23, 2024
The clinic and staff are a blessing in my life and have turned a "have to do" chore into a "looking ... forward to going in" positive experience. It is wonderful to see them . . . in more ways than one!
- Jan. 13, 2024
Everyone was friendly, caring, and competent.
- Jan. 05, 2024
Professional, knowledgeable and excellent choice of frames.
- Dec. 30, 2023
Dr. Lucas are excellent . They are skilled, work well with their clients and are highly recommended... . I would recommend them to everyone.
- Dec. 29, 2023
As a new patient in serious need of an appointment the front desk staff of the Birch Lake Eye Clinic... worked quickly to find me an appointment as soon as possible. Dr Lucas and his assistant were great and very informative. I felt very at ease in this clinic and will return.
- Dec. 22, 2023
So much positive about your staff! I wish I knew all their names. My first contact was Mark on the... phone. So patient, kind and understanding. The receptionist was amazing. I think she could read my anxiety. The eye technician to the doctor simple the best. But they captured my heart when my temporary (trial lens) ripped the night before my flight to visit my daughter. I went into the clinic and most fabulous (so sorry I cannot remember her name) went the extra mile and got the lens I needed. From another location driven to me by an employee. She also researched my insurance policy and found coverage for a pair of glasses. Helped me pick out a frame. My anxiety was at a 10 plus. She was so calming and made me feel I was important. ❤️
- Dec. 17, 2023
Dr. Brad Schwantke is an amazing eye doctor. He’s kind and friendly and knowledgeable. He instantl... y put me at ease and answered all of my questions. He made going to the eye doctor very pleasant. I will definitely be back. As a nurse, I’ve met a lot of doctors, and he is in my top 10.
- Dec. 14, 2023
This place is the best! They genuinely care. They got me in immediately with my concerns of a floate... r and flashes of light in my right eye. The doctor was so kind and also extremely knowledgeable and very easy to talk to. Everyone there is so nice and also professional. I also got glasses there a few months ago and they're perfect! I highly recommend them!
- Dec. 14, 2023
Professional, knowledgeable courteous
- Dec. 08, 2023
Fast and informative customer service. Would highly recommend to anyone. Super friendly staff.
- Dec. 07, 2023
Always great personalized service and care from Dr. Schwanke.
- Nov. 26, 2023
Best eye place I have ever went to
- Oct. 30, 2023
Phenomenal team at every step! Well done!
- Oct. 26, 2023
Alice and Brad and the other staff were great. Seemed to care and were very professional but, also w... ere very down to earth friendly.
- Oct. 10, 2023
I had my first eye appointment in five years yesterday at Birch Lake Eye Clinic. I was looking for a... n eye clinic near White Bear Lake and picked this one because of the reviews plus I wanted to see a woman doctor. I really liked the clinic! All of the staff were friendly and helpful. Shae was the assistant through the initial tests - I really liked her and appreciated that she walked me through next steps as we went along. Dr. Deanna was really nice to me, talked through all of my symptoms/concerns, and never made me feel like she was rushing along to see the next patient. She was articulate and explained everything along the way. She seemed experienced and well educated. Everything I'm looking for when it comes to something as serious as my eyes! I walked out feeling relieved. Highly recommend.
- Oct. 08, 2023
The staff at BirchLake Eye Clinic are very friendly.

View All 408 Reviews

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.

Dry Eyes in White Bear Lake

(651) 426-2747 Schedule Eye Exam

Our optometry practice in White Bear Lake

Meet our Eye Doctors

Photograph of Brian Grudem
Hours
  • Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Tuesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Thursday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Spectera
  • Superior Vision
  • Davis Vision
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

man in examination

Birch Lake Eye Clinic 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 Birch Lake Eye Clinic today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and discuss personalized dry eye strategies.

(651) 426-2747