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Dry Eye Treatment in Chattanooga

Dry eye occurs when the eye either doesn’t produce enough tears to keep itself hydrated, or when the tears themselves are low quality evaporate too quickly to keep the eye properly lubricated. In the latter case, the eyes may overproduce tears to try to compensate, and this is why some people experiencing dry eye may even experience watery eyes.

Common dry eye symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Light sensitivity
  • Itchiness, burning, or irritation
  • Blurry vision
  • Difficulty driving at night
  • Stinging mucus formation

Patients with these symptoms might notice that they worsen throughout the day due to the continuous exposure to irritants that cause them to rub their eyes. This irritation and exposure can put them at risk of corneal infection, ulceration, or scarring. In some rare cases, this may also instigate permanent vision loss.

Treatment typically starts with eye drops that function as artificial tears and give immediate, but temporary, relief. More intense cases may require topical steroid drops to fight inflammation, or possibly blocking the drainage canals to give tears more time on the eye’s surface. Other treatments include slowing tear drainage by a procedure called punctal occlusion or permanently increasing tear production through an innovative eye drop called Restasis.

The causes of dry eye vary, and can include:

  • Graves’ disease
  • Sjögren’s syndrome diabetes
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lupus
  • Scleroderma
  • Hormonal changes brought about by menopause or pregnancy

Dr. Crowder has extensive experience and high-end imaging tech at his disposal to accurately diagnose your case of dry eye and implement effective treatment. Dr. Crowder is passionate about treating chronic eye issues that his patients often “just deal with” because they simply aren’t aware that treatments are available. This passion is what drives him to put his all into helping his patients find

A woman putting eye drops in for dry eye.

What People are Saying About Crowder Eye Center

Jessica F.

Dr. Prodan and her staff were amazing! My 3yr old was very nervous and not wanting to corporate but they were able to calm her down, complete the exam, AND help her have a good experience. I couldn’t recommend them more!!

Brandon

A welcoming office with friendly faces. Dr. Prodan was kind and did a great job explaining what she was doing during the appointment. Sadly, I have to wait a whole year until I get to go back.”

Stephanie

“I am a new patient to Crowder Eye Center. When I called to make my first appointment, I was able to be seen within two weeks. The staff is very nice and helpful. I was able to see Dr. Adams. He listened to my concerns and questions and offered great advice regarding my treatment. I am very pleased to have chosen this office for my eye care!”

Dawn T.

My family saw Dr. Adams today. He was excellent! All of the staff was friendly and helpful. They also have appointments available later in the afternoon than most providers’ offices.

Marie N.

“I am so impressed with the office and with Dr. Prodan. She was very thorough with my daughter’s examination and very knowledgeable.”

Leslie M.

“Always a pleasant experience here, and Dr. Adams is the best! We recently moved about an hour away, but it’s worth the drive.”

Melissa F.

“Dr. Crowder is efficient and personable and his staff is very pleasant! I highly recommend Crowder Eye Center!”

Shannon R.

“Service was phenomenal from the moment I walked in the door. The office has been remodeled and provides a relaxing but upscale feel.”

Greg H.

“Dr. Crowder pays such great attention to detail and explains the process and everything he is doing. He is more thorough than any eye doctor we have been to in the past”

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