Vision Therapy in Northeast Colorado Springs

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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- Sep. 25, 2024
Fantastic staff, professional and so helpful on helping me pick out my glasses. Christi was awesome... , she showed me different styles and shapes that would suit my face. The input I got from Christi and other staff really helped me pick the right frames for me! It’s so nice to still see customer service still exists! Will definitely go back to that practice!
- Sep. 16, 2024
Great service snd lots of smiles.
- Aug. 23, 2024
A must “SEE” to believe! An excellent eye care facility from start to finish!
- Aug. 16, 2024
The staff here truly rock 🪨 🎸 🙌 no matter what they are personally fighting in there own w... orlds they give each customer or client there 110%
- Jul. 31, 2024
Staff and Dr was amazing and super pleasant. Minimal wait time when I got there.
- Jul. 24, 2024
Blonde lady was amazing would come again!
- Jul. 24, 2024
I was a client of Dr. Ray's at the Walmart eye center before they switched providers, so I followed ... him over to ABBA eye care! Very professional, knowledgeable, and respectful - I wouldn't go anywhere else unless I had to.
- Jun. 20, 2024
I always have a great time. They're professional. They're nice. They're wonderful. They're helpful.
- May. 18, 2024
Dr. Ray, Rian, and Allison are awesome!. The eye exam was cool.. No longer "puffs" of air in the eye... ..there's a newer technology . Friendly, smart staff , great experience. Educational too. I highly recommend this ABBA location.
- May. 17, 2024
So Far Dr Ray Is Awesome..Kuddos..To Him..And His Staff..Grant K. Colo Springs
- May. 13, 2024
AJ was a complete professional in handeling of my paperwork and getting new glasses.
- Apr. 22, 2024
Kind, caring and professional! I wouldn’t go anywhere else!
- Apr. 14, 2024
I also love my glasses. The only thing I didn't like was the glasses case. They don't make them like... they used to, I guess.
- Apr. 06, 2024
The staff are wonderful and doctor Ray was really positive and felt comfortable with him.
- Apr. 04, 2024
I've been dealing with the ABBA folks for several years and have never had anything to complain abou... t. They are all both professional and approachable. I recommend them all the time to people who admire my glasses (always a great selection)!
- Mar. 04, 2024
It has the most amazing staf. They are the most, welcoming, caring, goofy, laid back, thorough, eye ... care team I have ever witnessed.The doctor was very nice and made sure he checked everything with my neuropathy and headaches before sending me out to pick my glasses which I absolutely love. I love ABBA EYECARE!
- Mar. 03, 2024
Welcoming environment. Friendly doctors & staff. Timely service/minimal wait time.
- Feb. 20, 2024
Had a great experience, the doctors and staff were super knowledgeable and friendly and answered all... my questions! 10/10
- Feb. 18, 2024
Nice bright new location, Great atmosphere and fantastic employees. BTW. Love the music, go check ou... t Abba Eyecare! Thank you. VA accepted!!!
- Feb. 15, 2024
Easy and done!

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Dry Eyes in Northeast Colorado Springs

Our optometry practice in Northeast Colorado Springs

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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 ABBA Eye Care - Academy, 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!

(719) 632-2020