Vision Therapy in Alton

Medications That Can Cause Dry Eyes

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Dry Eye Syndrome as a Side Effect

Dry eye syndrome can result from various causes, including certain types of medications that have been identified as potential contributors to this condition. Typically, this occurs as a side effect of the medication's primary purpose.

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Common Medications Associated with Dry Eye Syndrome

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Many people may not realize that their drugs can contribute to dry eye symptoms. These medications can affect tear quantity or alter the quality of tear composition.

It's essential to recognize that dry eye can be a potential side effect of various medications. This can go a long way in finding the most appropriate treatment options.

  • Acne Medicine: Retinoids for Severe Acne

    If you're dealing with severe and painful cystic acne, your primary physician may have prescribed retinoid drugs. These medications work by diminishing the production of facial oils, but unfortunately, they can also reduce the amount of lubricating oils in your tears, contributing to dry eyes.

  • Antihistamines for Allergy Relief

    Antihistamine drugs can be vital for allergy sufferers, alleviating symptoms like sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes. However, they can have the unintended side effect of reducing tear production, leading to dry eye symptoms.

  • Sleeping Pills, Certain Antidepressants, and Medications for Parkinson's Disease

    Medications in these categories often work by blocking some nerve cell signals. While they may help with their intended purposes, they can also interfere with the signals that stimulate tear production, potentially causing dry eye symptoms.

  • Hypertension Drugs

    Beta-blockers are commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure by blocking the body's response to adrenaline. While they can be effective in this regard, they also slow the heartbeat and reduce the force of blood on arteries. These drugs can also lead to a decrease in aqueous tear production, resulting in dry eye symptoms.

  • Hormones and Birth Control Pills

    Certain hormone pills, particularly estrogen-only formulations, have been linked to dry eye syndrome. These medications can affect tear composition and contribute to dry eye symptoms.

  • Pain Relievers: Over-the-Counter Medications

    Some over-the-counter medications, such as high doses of ibuprofen, may lead to dry eye symptoms. They can decrease tear secretion and cause eye discomfort.


Dealing with Dry Eye-Related Side Effects

While the list of medications above offers some insight into the typical culprits behind dry eye, it's crucial to remember that dry eye symptoms can emerge as an unexpected side effect of various medications or combinations of drugs.

It is important to note that you should never stop taking your prescribed medications without explicit guidance from your healthcare provider. Doing so without professional oversight could result in more severe health problems and may not necessarily alleviate symptoms of dry eyes.

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Patient Reviews
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- Dec. 11, 2024
Best place to go. These ladies are so kind and patient! 10/10 recommend
- Nov. 09, 2024
A+ very professional friendly and knowledgeable..
- Oct. 29, 2024
Great staff! Efficient and very knowledgeable about insurance. Staff is very accommodating! I wouldn... ’t go anywhere else. Dr. Levi knows what she is doing!
- Oct. 10, 2024
I was on a riverboat cruise and had lost a pad on the nose piece of my glasses. I had suffered for ... 2 days when we arrived in Alton. I took a chance and walked into Crown Vision Center, hoping they might make a repair for a decent price. I was greeted quickly and with kindness. When I explained my problem, the young lady said " I'll repair/replace both nose pads, just give me a minute". She did it in less than five minutes and would not charge me a cent! I would definitely make this my vision center of choice. Thanks you so much for your help and Midwestern hospitality.
- Sep. 15, 2024
Initial Kindergarten vision exam went smooth. Now the only doctor that my 5-yr-old daughter Jade is ... not scared to visit.
- Sep. 04, 2024
Katie was super quick, efficient, and very kind! She also found a few coupons to help with my glasse... s and contacts! The rest of the staff was also very friendly and professional.
- Sep. 03, 2024
Been going for years. Drove from Springfield IL to Alton because they was the only ones that heard m... e about my care. Thank you for listening and hearing me. 💚
- Jul. 27, 2024
Excellent staff! I love the Alton office!
- Jul. 17, 2024
Great place to get your eye's checked out and your eye need's
- Jun. 08, 2024
Katie was so professional, helpful and made my experience so easy with my insurance. She was the rea... son why I had such a pleasant experience and I would highly recommend Crown.
- May. 02, 2024
Always quick and the most helpful
- Mar. 29, 2024
My son and I love our treatment and glasses the team was wonderful
- Mar. 29, 2024
quick easy and nice people
- Mar. 21, 2024
The staff are very pleasant! Exceptional customer service!!
- Feb. 15, 2024
Good place
- Jan. 20, 2024
Friendly, fast service.
- Jan. 11, 2024
Dr. Levi and her staff are very professional and friendly
- Dec. 20, 2023
I was worried my Lined Bifocals would be dorky looking, lol, but I was surprised and impressed that ... they were discreet and barely noticeable, save your money and just go with the lined ones if you need them, also EVERYONE at Crown was friendly & professional. 🤓
- Dec. 18, 2023
Nice knowledgeable staff
- Nov. 12, 2023
Great place

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Dry Eyes in Alton

Our optometry practice in Alton

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Dry Eye Management and Treatment

If you find yourself experiencing dry eye symptoms in connection with your medication regimen, the most prudent course of action is to promptly seek consultation with both your eye specialist and primary care physician.

This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, enabling healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action to manage and alleviate dry eye-related side effects.

At Crown Vision Center - Alton, we'll evaluate your condition and medical history to determine the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan. Take the first step towards a healthier you—schedule an appointment today and let us guide you on the path to wellness!

(618) 462-7611