Dry Eye on Avenue U: What You Need to Know
Dry eye is one of the most common eye conditions we treat at Vision Palace Optical, and it's more than just uncomfortable. Your eyes aren't making enough tears, or the tears you make aren't doing their job properly. This happens a lot here on Avenue U and throughout Brooklyn, especially for people who spend hours in front of screens at work or squinting in the subway. The good news: dry eye is treatable, and we can help.
Why Dry Eye Happens in Brooklyn
You might think dry eye only happens in deserts, but it's incredibly common in Brooklyn. Our indoor heating in winter, air conditioning in summer, plus long hours looking at phones and computer screens all year round, that's a recipe for dry, irritated eyes. The salt air near Sheepshead Bay doesn't help either.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, dry eye syndrome affects millions of Americans, and rates have been climbing steadily. Dr. Shlivko and Dr. Sheyko see dry eye patients every single day at our Avenue U office. Some folks come in already knowing something's wrong. Others just feel tired eyes and aren't sure what to do.
The causes vary. Maybe you've spent the last five years working from home on your laptop. Maybe you wear contacts. Maybe you're going through hormonal changes. Whatever the reason, we'll figure it out and get you relief.
How We Diagnose and Treat Dry Eye
When you come in for a dry eye evaluation at Vision Palace Optical, we don't just ask a few questions and hand you eye drops. Dr. Shlivko will perform a thorough exam that may include testing how much tear film you're producing, checking tear composition, and examining the health of your eye surface.
Your doctor may recommend several approaches. Many patients benefit from over-the-counter artificial tears or prescription eye drops that help your eyes produce more of their own tears. Others find relief from warm compresses and eyelid cleaning routines. For some, we recommend adjusting screen habits and taking regular breaks.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that treatment plans should be tailored to each patient's specific type of dry eye. That's exactly what we do at Vision Palace Optical on Avenue U. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, and a good eye doctor won't pretend there is.
Dry Eye and Your Work Life
If you're working in an office in Brooklyn or working from home in Sheepshead Bay, your job might be making your eyes drier. Screen time reduces blinking, which means fewer tears coating your eyes. Fluorescent office lighting doesn't help either.
Simple changes can make a real difference. Position your screen slightly below eye level. Take a 20-20-20 break: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Keep a humidifier in your workspace. Your eyes will thank you.
If dry eye is already affecting your work or your daily life, don't wait. Schedule an exam with Dr. Shlivko or Dr. Sheyko. We'll find out what's causing your symptoms and build a treatment plan that actually works for how you live.
When Dry Eye Needs More Than Drops
Sometimes dry eye is mild and responds well to artificial tears and lifestyle changes. Sometimes it's more complex. Your doctor may evaluate whether you'd benefit from prescription treatments, in-office procedures, or other interventions. We're equipped to handle straightforward cases and refer complicated dry eye to specialists when needed.
The important thing is getting an evaluation from someone who knows what they're looking for. Dry eye can affect your vision quality and comfort, and it deserves real clinical attention, not just a guess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does dry eye feel like?
You might feel grittiness, scratchiness, or burning. Your eyes could water excessively, which seems counterintuitive but happens when your eyes are irritated. Some people describe it as tired eyes or a feeling like something's in their eye. Everyone's experience is a little different, which is why your doctor will evaluate you specifically rather than assuming what's going on.
Can I develop dry eye suddenly, or does it come on gradually?
Dry eye can develop both ways. Some people notice it after a life change, like starting a new job with lots of screen time or moving to a drier climate. Others develop it gradually over years without realizing what's happening. Either way, your eye doctor at Vision Palace Optical on Avenue U can help identify what's changed and what treatment makes sense for you.
Does dry eye go away on its own?
It depends on the cause. If you developed dry eye because you changed your routine, changing it back might help. But if it's due to age, hormonal changes, or your eye's natural tear production, it typically won't resolve without treatment. That's why getting a proper diagnosis from Dr. Shlivko or Dr. Sheyko is important, we can tell you what you're dealing with.
Are there products I should avoid if I have dry eye?
Some over-the-counter eye products containing certain preservatives can irritate dry eyes further. Artificial tears without preservatives, or preservative-free formulations, are often better for long-term use. Your doctor will recommend specific products during your exam. Don't guess, ask us what's best for your eyes.
Is dry eye more common in winter?
Yes. Indoor heating dries out the air and your eyes. Winter heating season hits Brooklyn hard, especially in older buildings where you can't control the thermostat. Running a humidifier helps, and staying hydrated matters too. Come spring, many dry eye patients feel better, but the underlying cause might still need treatment.
Can you get dry eye from wearing contacts?
Contacts can contribute to dry eye, especially if you're not taking care of them properly or wearing them too long each day. Some people find certain contact lens materials work better with their tears than others. If you wear contacts and have dry eye, mention that to your doctor, there are solutions specific to your situation.
Ready for Relief?
Dry eye doesn't have to be part of your life. Book an eye exam at Vision Palace Optical on Avenue U in Brooklyn. Book through Zocdoc, get in touch, or call us at (718) 998-8400. Dr. Shlivko and Dr. Sheyko are ready to figure out what's causing your dry eye and help you feel better. We're open Monday through Saturday at 1723 Avenue U, Sheepshead Bay.
References
- American Academy of Ophthalmology, Dry Eye Syndrome Preferred Practice Pattern 2023. Clinical guideline on diagnosis and management of dry eye syndrome.
- American Academy of Ophthalmology, Dry Eye Diagnosis and Treatment. Overview of evidence-based treatment approaches for dry eye disease.