Comprehensive Eye Care for Dry Eye Relief in Omaha

If your eyes feel dry, gritty, or like there’s always something in them, you’re not alone. You’re definitely not imagining things. Dry eye disease is one of the most common and misunderstood eye problems we see. But here’s what most people don’t realize:

Not all dry eye is the same — and not every treatment works for every patient.

That’s why we don’t believe in quick fixes or one-size-fits-all solutions. Dry eye care is a process. It works best when we slow down, ask the right questions, and find the treatment that fits your specific situation. Let’s break that down.

What Is Dry Eye and Dry Eye Drops?

Dry eye usually falls into one of two categories:

• Evaporative dry eye: Your tears evaporate too quickly, often due to issues with the oil layer of your tear film. This is commonly linked to meibomian gland dysfunction or eyelid inflammation.

• Aqueous deficiency: Your eyes don’t produce enough of the watery part of your tears to keep them moist and comfortable.

  
  

Sometimes both types are present. Inflammation is often involved in both cases, which is why identifying the root cause is so important.

Why We Don’t Just Prescribe Drops Right Away

You may have seen ads for prescription dry eye medications like Meibo, Xiidra, or Tryptyr. These drops can be effective, but only when used for the right type of dry eye.

When we identify signs of dry eye during a routine eye exam, we don’t guess. Instead, we typically start with step one treatments, like warm compresses and eyelid hygiene. These are evidence-based, low-risk, and often effective at improving symptoms. They’re also easy for patients to start right away — and we can even provide them in our office.

If symptoms persist, we schedule a dedicated dry eye evaluation. This second appointment allows us to:

• Pinpoint the exact cause of your dry eye

• Look for signs of inflammation or other conditions

• Build a personalized treatment plan

• Document your response to initial therapies

  
  

This approach also helps us with insurance coverage. Some prescription medications require proof that step one treatments were tried first. Starting with basic therapy gives us a solid foundation for next steps and gives your eyes a chance to respond before jumping to more advanced options.

Tryptyr vs. Xiidra: What’s the Difference?

These are two of the most commonly prescribed medications for dry eye, but they work in different ways.

• Xiidra is primarily an anti-inflammatory. It’s typically used when there are clear signs of inflammation, such as redness or corneal staining.

• Tryptyr helps increase tear volume. It may be more appropriate for patients who aren’t producing enough tears but don’t have significant inflammation.

  
  

Both medications can be helpful, but they aren’t interchangeable. We make recommendations based on your symptoms, your test results, and your goals.

Sometimes, medication isn’t the best option at all. Depending on your case, we might recommend:

• Punctal plugs to help retain moisture

• In-office treatments like IPL therapy for inflammation

• Lifestyle changes or supplements to support tear production

• Prescription-free options that are more cost-effective and just as effective for some patients

  
  

What to Expect from a Dry Eye Evaluation

When you come in for a dry eye visit, we perform a series of tests and observations to understand what’s happening on the surface of your eye. These may include:

• Tear film analysis

• Meibomian gland imaging

• Inflammation testing

• Eyelid evaluation

  
  

The goal is to move from guesswork to clarity so we can choose a treatment plan that works for you, not just for the average case.

A Better Way to Treat Dry Eye

We understand how frustrating dry eye can be, especially if you’ve tried different drops in the past without much relief. One of the most common things we hear is, “I’ve used drops for years and nothing helps.”

That’s often because the root cause hasn’t been identified, and the treatment didn’t match the problem. At our clinic, we don’t throw prescriptions at symptoms. We take the time to figure out what your eyes need, and we build a plan that actually makes sense.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing Dry Eye

Managing dry eye often requires a combination of treatments and lifestyle adjustments. Here are some practical tips to help you find relief:

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining tear production. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day. This simple habit can make a significant difference in how your eyes feel.

Use a Humidifier

Dry air can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Using a humidifier in your home, especially during winter months, can help keep the air moist and reduce irritation.

Take Breaks from Screens

If you spend long hours in front of a computer or phone, remember to take regular breaks. The 20-20-20 rule is a great guideline: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain and dryness.

Wear Sunglasses

When outdoors, wearing sunglasses can protect your eyes from wind and sun, which can worsen dry eye symptoms. Look for sunglasses that block UV rays and have side shields for added protection.

Consider Omega-3 Supplements

Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids can improve tear production. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether adding omega-3 supplements to your diet could benefit you.

Ready to Feel Better?

If your eyes are irritated, dry, or just uncomfortable, we’re here to help. Our dry eye evaluations are designed to get to the bottom of the issue and find the treatment that’s right for you.

Schedule your dry eye evaluation today and let’s start the path toward clearer, more comfortable vision. Remember, you deserve personalized care that addresses your unique needs.