Relieve Dry Eyes with Expert Care in Astoria

Dry eyes at the chronic stage can make routine activities like reading, driving, or working on a computer painful. At Astoria Park Eyecare, we offer state-of-the-art diagnostic technology and tailored treatment to relieve the discomfort of dry eye syndrome and provide lasting comfort.

If you are dealing with irritation, blurred vision, or persistent dryness in the eyes, we offer real relief for dry eye syndrome right here in Ditmars, Astoria. Schedule an appointment at (718) 734-2509, or use our online booking system to schedule a dry eye consultation today.

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What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome develops if your eyes fail to form proper tears or when the tear quality is poor. Weak lubrication causes inflammation and irritation. It is either temporary or persistent, and the discomfort tends to worsen over time if ignored.

The Usual Dry Eye Symptoms:

• Burning or stinging
• Irritation or redness
• Grittiness or the feeling that something is in the eye
• Over-tearing (for dryness)
• Blurred or watery vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye fatigue, especially after screen use

Many patients don't seek treatment until dry eye interferes with daily life. At Astoria Park Eyecare, we identify the underlying cause so your treatment is effective and lasting.

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Causes and Risk Factors

Dry eye syndrome isn't just a shortage of tears—it's typically also associated with tear film instability, eyelid abnormality, or inflammation of the tear glands.

Risk Factors:

• Age (especially over 50)
• Prolonged use of screens (digital eye strain)
• Contact lens wear
• Environmental exposures (wind, dry indoor air)
• LASIK and other refractive surgeries
• Some medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medications)
• Hormonal changes
• Autoimmune diseases like Sjögren's syndrome

Understanding what is behind your symptoms is the point of proper management. Dr. Rajat Shetty will perform thorough assessments to prepare a treatment plan for your unique case.

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Our Dry Eye Diagnosis Method

Dry eye treatment begins with a thorough analysis rather than an eye checkup at Astoria Park Eyecare. We use objective measurements to assess tear quality, volume, and eye surface health.

Diagnostic Tests Include:

• Slit lamp test: Searches for inflammation, debris, and signs of corneal damage
• Tear break-up time (TBUT): Examines the rate of evaporation of tears
• Ocular surface staining: Compares damage to the eye's surface
• Lid gland testing: Examines meibomian glands that produce tear oil
• Patient symptom questionnaire: Enables us to assess severity and triggers

These tests will give us a sense of whether your dry eye is evaporative, aqueous-deficient, or mixed so we can select the optimum treatment for you.

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Dry Eye Treatment Options

Dry eye syndrome treatment at Astoria Park Eyecare is individualized to your condition and lifestyle. We prefer non-surgical, evidence-based therapies and follow up with follow-up visits to track progress.

Recommended Treatments May Include:

1. Artificial Tears and Lubricants
   We start with preservative-free drops to bring back moisture. They are used typically in addition to other therapies.
2. Lid Hygiene and Warm Compress Therapy
   Warm compresses, lid wipes, and specific cleansers are our choice for patients with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) to decrease inflammation and increase the function of the oil glands.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Eye Drops
   Preservative eye drops like cyclosporine (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) lower inflammation and improve tear production over months.
4. Punctal Plugs
   These tiny silicone plugs are inserted into the tear ducts to slow drainage and keep moisture on the eye's surface longer. This is a quick, painless office procedure.
5. Omega-3 Supplements
   Oral supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids can improve the function of the meibomian glands and improve tear quality. We offer consultation on safe, effective supplements.
6. Environmental and Lifestyle Changes
   We provide customized management, such as modifying screen use habits, home and office humidification, and managing medication side effects that can intensify dry eye.
7. Follow-up and Long-Term Management
   You must manage chronic dry eye continuously. Dr. Shetty is monitoring your response to treatment and optimizing as indicated to maintain stability.

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Why Early Treatment Matters

If dry eye syndrome is not treated, chronic discomfort and permanent corneal damage can be the outcome. Complications like eye infections, intolerance to contact lenses, and decreased quality of life can also be seen in patients. The progression can be avoided with timely diagnosis and strict management, while your vision will be saved.

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Meet Dr. Rajat Shetty

Dr. Rajat Shetty owns Astoria Park Eyecare and has been a clinical eye care practitioner in New York City since 2011. Dr. Shetty graduated from SUNY College of Optometry and is known for his comprehensive, results-oriented approach to patient care.

His evaluation for dry eye is guided by the latest literature and clinical practice. Whether your dry eye condition is mild, moderate, or severe, Dr. Shetty works with you to establish a long-term solution to your comfort and vision clarity.

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Your First Dry Eye Visit

Your initial visit with us regarding dry eye includes:

• Screen your vision and medical history
• Conduct a complete eye surface and tear film test
• Talk about your symptoms and how they affect everyday activities
• Start an individualized treatment plan based on your test results

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Insurance and Payment Information

We provide full vision and medical insurance coverage, including:

• VSP
• Aetna Vision
• Davis Vision
• Eyemed
• Healthfirst
• Medicaid
• Fidelis Care
• Spectera
• MetroPlus
• Blue View Vision
• UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, and more.

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Schedule Your Dry Eye Exam Today

Don't let burning, irritated, and itchy eyes get the better of you. Get cozy today at Astoria Park Eyecare. Call (718) 734-2509 or book your appointment online to get started.