Dry Eye Treatment
Dry eye syndrome can lead to redness, itchiness, irritation, and soreness. This severely affects your well-being and vision quality.
Choate Eye Associates uses the latest tools and techniques to diagnose, treat, and manage severe cases of chronic dry eye.
Learn how board-certified doctor Walter Choate helps dry eye patients throughout Nashville, TN, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville...
Don't Ignore the Symptoms Request a consultation and protect your sight
Dry eyes can be just a minor annoyance, but they can also be the symptom of more serious eye issues. If you experience dry eyes or sudden changes to your vision, it is best to get it checked out as soon as possible. Call our eye clinic and request an appointment today.
The Basics of Dry Eye Syndrome
Dry eye syndrome impacts your ability to wear contact lenses, causes discomfort, and makes daily activities such as driving and reading more difficult. These are three common reasons why patients with dry eye experience soreness, irritation, and reduced moisture.
Poor Tear Composition
Tears are composed of three main substances. There's saline that nourishes the surface of the eye, mucus that binds moisture to the surface of the eye, and oil from the meibomian glands that slows evaporation. If composition is off, dry eye can occur.
Reduced Tear Production
Your tear composition may be fine, but if you aren't producing enough of them, you're likely to suffer from dry eye disease. The lack of moisture varies from person to person. Some may lack sufficient moisture while others may not produce any tears at all.
Rapid Tear Evaporation
If the ratio of saline, oil, and/or mucus is off, it can make tears evaporate at a much faster rate than normal. Even with regular function from the lacrimal glands, evaporation will lead to frequent bouts of dry eye syndrome, especially in dry and windy environments.
Understanding Dry Eye and Why It Happens
Dry eye has different causes, and each will determine which type of treatment you need. Dr. Choate and his team will determine what kind of dry eye you're suffering from and then develop a treatment plan just for you.
Dry Eye Is More Common Than You Think
Given the prevalence of dry eye symptoms among Americans of all ages, it's a good idea to visit Dr. Choate for an exam. Using advanced technology, he can determine the cause or causes of your dry eye.
Schedule a Consultation We Offer Advanced Dry Eye Treatment and Management
Dr. Walter Choate is board-certified in the treatment and management of eye diseases such as dry eye. He has provided the communities of Nashville, TN, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville with compassionate eye care and vision enhancement since 1979. This dedication has made our practice one of the most trusted and respected centers in the state of Tennessee.
Dr. Choate's experience has led him to be an FDA investigator for the latest contact lenses, pharmaceuticals, and other ophthalmic equipment. His patients get access to these exciting new treatments before anyone else in the South.
If you live in the Nashville area and would like more information about treating dry eye and other eye conditions, contact Choate Eye Associates online. You can also call our team at:
"I Wouldn't Go Anywhere Else" Nashville's Most Trusted Eye Care Provider
Joseph Robinson
2020
I am very satisfied with the services provided by Choate Eye Associates. Dr. Choate and all of staff provide an exceptional level of service from. All were extremely friendly and very knowledgeable in their individual specialties. I would recommend them to anyone who is in need of the full range of eye care.
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Julie Malone
2020
Dr. Choate has been my Ophthalmologist for 7 years now, and I wouldn't go anywhere else. I moved last year, and I now drive for an hour to see him. The selection of frames is amazing, the office staff is WONDERFUL, and I always know that I am receiving the best care possible. I would recommend Choate Eye Associates to anyone and everyone!
View On GoogleDry Eye and Advanced Age
Advanced age is just one of many risk factors associated with dry eye syndrome. That's why it's important for older patients to undergo regular exams. Dr. Choate can identify signs of dry eye disease and other ocular conditions.
Are You at Risk for Dry Eye Syndrome?
Certain conditions make dry eye more likely. Be mindful of these dry eye risk factors, and reach out to our Nashville area center for an exam if you suffer from any symptoms.
Advanced Age
As people grow older, changes in hormones and other wellness factors can lead to changes in tear composition, reduced tear production, and other issues that could make dry eye more likely.Certain Medical Conditions
Dry eye is linked to a number of health conditions, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjogren's syndrome, scleroderma, and nutritional deficiencies.Use of Certain Medications
People who take certain medications run a higher risk of developing dry eye. These drugs include antihistamines, antidepressants, hormones, blood pressure medications, and birth control.Blepharitis
Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) can cause the build-up of debris in your tear film, preventing you from keeping your eyelids moist and causing dry eye symptoms.
"I Had a Great Experience" What Nashville Patients Are Saying
Angie Bond
2020
Excellent eye doctor and assistants. The opticians are the best. Choate has gorgeous eye wear!!! Dr. Choate went out of his way to take care of my vision issues to help me see as much as I possibly can. I appreciate the help he gave me.
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Jacoby Knight
2020
Every one of the staff members were kind and friendly. I had a great experience. All of the procedures were explained to me in such a way that a kindergartener could understand. I am very pleased with the services that were provided to me.
View On GoogleOur Advanced Testing and Diagnosis Tools
At our practice serving Nashville, TN, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville, we use some of the latest diagnostic tools to properly screen for dry eye. In addition to discussing symptoms and medical history, we'll use the following vision technology to determine whether poor tear quality, insufficient tears, or meibomian gland dysfunction are contributing to your symptoms:
A slit lamp allows Dr. Choate to closely examine the interior and surface of the eye, identifying dry eye disease and other conditions.
Using a small strip of paper carefully placed inside of your eyelid, Dr. Choate can easily analyze your tear production and composition.
The LipiScan® system uses infrared technology to produce high-resolution images of the meibomian glands along the eyelids.
Contact Our Eye Doctor to Receive a Diagnosis
With more than four decades of experience, Dr. Choate is proud to provide some of the finest eye care and optometric services in the Nashville, TN, area. Quality care has remained his focus throughout his career. Dr. Choate is a proud member of numerous eye care organizations, including:
- American Academy of Optometry
- American Optometric Association
- National Board of Examiners in Optometry
For more information about the latest treatment options for dry eye in the Nashville area, contact Choate Eye Associates online. You can also schedule a consultation by phone at:
(615) 851-7575
"I was put in Dr. Choate's care by my former opthalmologist that opted to just do surgery. I have been under Dr. Choate's care for several years. He is very thorough and professional. The staff is pleasant and efficient. The office is clean and beautiful. I am an 88 year old artist and writer, so my eyes are very important to me." Elizabeth Sims
Common Treatment Options
There are many ways to treat dry eye syndrome and manage its symptoms. Dr. Choate and the team at our center serving Nashville and surrounding cities will determine the ideal treatment or combination of treatments to help you experience better vision and health. Some of our most common treatments include:
Artificial Tears
Artificial tears are a common way to manage dry eye syndrome. Patients use these lubricating eye drops to soothe dryness and irritation. In some cases, artificial tears combined with lifestyle modifications are sufficient to treat dry eye syndrome.
Prescription Eye Drops
Eye drops such as RESTASIS®, Xiidra®, Lotemax, or doxycycline may be prescribed in order to treat dry eye syndrome. These medicated eye drops, which are different than over-the-counter artificial tears, provide lubrication and symptom relief.
Punctal Plugs
Punctal plugs are small devices placed into the tear ducts. By blocking the ducts, moisture coating the surface of the eyes will not drain away. Punctal plugs effectively prevent dry eye by keeping existing moisture in place longer.
LipiFlow
LipiFlow® is a nonsurgical dry eye treatment that treats meibomian gland blockages and dysfunction. The gentle combination of heat and pressure unblocks the glands in less than 15 minutes, reducing the severity of dry eye episodes.
ThermiEyes
ThermiEyes® is similar to LipiFlow in that it also treats meibomian gland dysfunction in about 15 minutes. ThermiEyes warms, soothes, and unblocks the meibomian glands by delivering safe radiofrequency energy along the eyelids.
Tailoring Dry Eye Treatment to the Patient
Choose a Dry Eye Center That Offers Comprehensive Treatments
Treating dry eye syndrome begins with determining the cause. Following your initial consultation, Dr. Choate will do a complete dry eye work-up to analyze tear quantity, tear quality, and gland function. This will enable him to determine the most effective course of treatment for your case. Our other treatments include:
- Hot compresses such as the BRUDER® Moist Heat Eye Compress
- Antibiotic eyelid scrubs such as OCuSOFT®
- Antioxidants and fish oil high in EPA/DHA/GLA and astaxanthin
- An anti-inflammatory diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
- Multiple types of artificial tears and steroids including SYSTANE® ULTRA, SYSTANE BALANCE, SYSTANE Preservative-Free, SYSTANE Gel Drops, SYSTANE Nighttime Ointment, REFRESH® OPTIVE, REFRESH OPTIVE Advanced Preservative-Free, REFRESH Liquigel, and REFRESH Lacri-lube Ointment
- Blinking exercises
Through proper diagnosis and custom treatment plans, Dr. Choate has helped many patients achieve relief from their symptoms—for good.
Contact Our Vision Center Relieve Your Dry Eye Symptoms—For Good
Whether he is treating dry eye or helping patients select the right glasses or contact lenses for their needs, Dr. Choate remains a leader in quality eye care for people in the Nashville, TN, area.
Dr. Choate and his dedicated staff are always thorough and warm, making everyone feel welcome and comfortable with each visit. We put you first and focus on your current vision needs as well as your lasting wellness.
For more information about lasting relief from dry eye syndrome, contact Choate Eye Associates online. You can also reach our practice by phone at:
(615) 851-7575
"Professional, Efficient, and Personable" Reviews for Nashville's Leading Eye Care Physician
Ernestine Wilson
2020
Dr. Choate and his staff are professional, efficient, and personable. The services provided are stellar with the end product of better eye care. I appreciate his thoroughness.
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Scott Ball
2020
Probably one of the most detailed and complete doctors I have the pleasure of working with.
View On GoogleDry Eye Treatment Can Improve Your Quality of Life
There are many benefits to undergoing professional dry eye treatment. Our patients typically report the following improvements thanks to their custom treatment plan.
Greater Comfort
Proper treatment means you no longer have to deal with irritation, burning, or the feeling of something caught in your eyes. You can go about your day normally and comfortably.Reduced Redness
Now that your eyes are soothed and properly lubricated, they won't appear raw, bloodshot, or fatigued. This can work wonders for your appearance and overall self-image.Better Vision Quality
Dry eye treatment prevents blurry vision and poor night vision. You'll see clearly again and can enjoy reading, hikes, and other physical activities without any hassles.Restored Ability to Wear Contact Lenses
Chronic dry eye keeps many people from wearing their contact lenses. After dry eye treatment, you can wear contact lenses normally without itchiness or excessive tearing.Cost and Payment Options for Dry Eye Treatment
We help people throughout the Nashville area experience healthy eyes and better vision every day. This includes going over payment options for the treatments they need.
Since there are many ways to manage dry eye, the cost of treatment will vary. During your consultation, we'll provide a full cost breakdown of your procedure and discuss potential alternatives that may be more affordable.
Medical insurance may cover some of your dry eye treatment, reducing the final out-of-pocket cost. Keep in mind that coverage and policies vary. We'll work with you and your insurance provider so you can receive quality care.
While some treatments are covered by insurance, other treatments, such as LipiFlow and ThermiEyes, are not. If you are unable to pay for these treatments upfront, we are glad to help you apply for CareCredit®, a financing option that can allow you to pay for treatment in low-interest and interest-free installments.
Because many of the treatments for this condition are simple and non-invasive, treating dry eye is generally more cost-effective than addressing other ocular diseases that can occur if you leave dry eye untreated. By seeking out treatment early on, you can prevent the need for more costly treatments in the future.
"I Highly Recommend Choate Eye Associates!"
Janet Blakemore
2020
Dr. Choate and staff are courteous and professional. I’ve been a patient of his now for at least ten years. I’m a firm believer in the saying, you get what you pay for and he is worth it. He was referred to me by a former classmate and I will always be grateful for that. I like that he educates his patients on the nutrition aspect of eye health and can recommend the supplements one needs. His knowledge of the latest treatment is impressive and reassuring. I would recommend him to anyone and on a fun note, his office music and magazine choice is very enjoyable.
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Deborah Kell
2020
Very thorough eye exam by extremely caring professionals. Love how Dr. Choate took the time to explain what the results of my exam meant and how we could best correct my vision for my specific needs in my work and in my everyday life. Could not be happier with the selection of frames to help me look my best, too! Barbara was amazing helping me pick everything out and making sure I'd have the perfect fit for my vision needs. I highly recommend Choate Eye Associates!
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