Vision Therapy in Lenexa

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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- Oct. 15, 2024
Dr. Marr and team at the Lenexa location are beyond amazing. They are super friendly and always take... great care of me! 10/10 cannot recommend them enough!
- Oct. 04, 2024
Great place, friendly staff. Quick service.
- Sep. 16, 2024
Dr. Marr and his staff are AMAZING! I had an emergency over the weekend, they got me right in, and s... aw me on my quick lunch break. He was thorough, yet considerate of my time. He ensured I’d have enough contacts to get through my “emergency situation”, and made sure he gave me to give me the best deal for prescriptions. I cannot say enough good things about his office! I will definitely be sending my friends, patients and family his way! Thanks again guys!!!
- Aug. 27, 2024
I stopped into Insight Vision Center to have my new glasses check & Brittany was wonderful. She spot... ted a flaw on my glasses I never noticed that could throw of my vision. I actually purchased my glasses from Costco, who missed the flaw. I'm so happy Brittany spotted it. She's excellent & knows about glasses. Next time I'll use Insight.
- Jul. 12, 2024
I received a thorough eye exam, and it was taken care of by a friendly, caring staff
- Jun. 21, 2024
They are an awesome team! Lindsey provides excellent customer service and we never feel rushed. Dr. ... Marr provided us with an in depth eye exam and explained eye health concerns. He is very detailed and thorough. They are all so friendly with a great sense of humor (sorry I don't remember everyone's name).
- Jun. 06, 2024
Dr Marr is fabulous. Staff is friendly, prompt, and thorough.
- Jun. 03, 2024
Just wanted to say thank you for a great eye experience. Candid, honest, compassionate and very fun!... From scheduling to my appointment to ordering. I will be back and will highly recommend.
- May. 29, 2024
This was a clean and efficient office. The medical equipment was modern and the staff and eye docto... r (Kyle) were friendly and exceptionally easy to work with.
- May. 23, 2024
I moved over to Insight Vision Center for my eye care May 2024 and I was quite pleased. I told my w... ife & she just saw them as well. I would recommend Dr Marr.
- May. 22, 2024
Highly recommend! Dr. Marr was thorough in his testing and assessment. The glasses I received per ... his prescription was spot-on. Super-friendly staff and ease of scheduling made the experience even better. If you're looking for a new vision-provider, you should definitely put these folks at the top of your list. Right off K-10 and Woodland, they're easily accessible.
- May. 17, 2024
Love this insight location in Lenexa. Doctor is the best and staff is great.
- May. 11, 2024
Dr. Marr provided excellent care and was very professional. Took time to explain different options ... and had a great recommendation for me. The staff in the office were very polite and got me an appointment that same day. I give them 6 stars!!
- May. 11, 2024
Knowledgeable staff in a friendly no pressure environment
- May. 04, 2024
Very friendly staff! I feel like they always take the time to ease any worries or concerns with my v... ision and explain things in a way that makes sense to me.
- May. 02, 2024
The second you walk in the door, Lindsay and the office staff are willing to help in any way possibl... e to Dr. Marr's quality and beneficial eye exam, it's just always a great experience!
- Apr. 23, 2024
I highly recommend Insight Vision Center (Lenexa). The staff is very respectful, and the Dr Kyle Maa... r is very knowledgeable and kind.
- Apr. 01, 2024
Great staff. Very responsive. Dr. Marr goes above and beyond.
- Mar. 11, 2024
I have been going to Insight Vision Center for several years now. I love the care I receive from the... entire staff. The team there is efficient and work with patients to give them the best care possible. I especially like that I can purchase glasses where I received my exam. Thanks, Insight team!
- Jan. 31, 2024
Quality eye care. Very professional and understanding about all eye care needs.

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Dry Eyes in Lenexa

Our optometry practice in Lenexa

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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 Insight Vision Center - Lenexa, 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!

(913) 254-7456