For Space Coast adults with burning, gritty, watery or tired eyes: an evaluation first, then a plan built on your results.
Dr. Justin Hrabinski, O.D., optometrist, and the Spectrum Vision team.
Dry eye has more than one cause, and drops alone cannot tell you which is yours. It is a long-term condition, so symptoms tend to keep returning without a plan that fits the cause. We know how wearing that is.
It starts with your symptoms and a tear film evaluation. It suits symptoms that last more than a few weeks, keep returning or blur your vision.
Your plan may include prescription eye drops, punctal plugs, lid hygiene, at-home heat or custom contact lenses. We do not perform IPL, LipiFlow, TearCare, iLux, radiofrequency or any other in-office device treatment, and we refer you when a procedure is the right next step.
Blocked eyelid oil glands (MGD) let tears evaporate too fast. Blepharitis inflames the eyelid margins, often with crusty, itchy lids, and is frequently linked to eyelash mites. We examine your eyelids and lash line and plan lid hygiene, heat and prescription drops when testing supports them. We discuss punctal plugs when testing shows too few tears.
Most people with dry eye can keep wearing contacts once the dryness is treated and the lens is matched to their eyes. We test, treat, then fit or refit, often starting with a daily disposable. Ask us about custom lens designs for more severe dryness.
Book. Online or by phone. Bring your eye drops, medication list and contact lenses.
Test. We evaluate your tear film.
Plan. We talk through what we found and the options that fit.
Success looks like comfortable eyes on most days and a routine you can keep up.
6.8%
In a national survey, 6.8% of U.S. adults had diagnosed dry eye, rising to 18.6% at 75 and older. Diagnosed cases only.
86%
In one clinic-based study, 86% of dry eye patients showed signs of meibomian gland dysfunction. It was retrospective and counted mixed cases, so it does not show cause.
77%
Among 136 people scheduled for cataract surgery, 77% of eyes had corneal staining, yet almost 60% had never complained of a foreign-body sensation. One modest study.
These studies describe groups, not your eyes, which is why we test first.
Dry eye has many possible causes, and more than one is common: blocked eyelid oil glands, too few tears, blepharitis, allergies, problems with the eyelids or the shape of the eye, some medications, and wind, dry air or long screen days. It can also show up as red eyes, itching or sensitivity to bright light.
That is why your visit starts with your symptom history and daily routine, such as screen time and contact lens wear. Home care can include blinking exercises alongside lid hygiene and heat.
Dry eye visits are generally billed to medical insurance, not a vision plan. Original Medicare Part B covers diagnostic testing for dry eye and punctal plugs, but not routine eye exams or most device-based therapies. That is general information, not a statement about your plan.
When symptoms last more than a few weeks, keep returning or blur your vision.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology explains that "your eyes make more tears when they are irritated by dry eye."
A Cochrane review of 18 trials found it unclear whether plugs are effective. Reported effects include watery eyes, itching, lid tenderness, plugs coming out and, rarely, a tear-sac infection.
Dry eye is usually long-term. Cleveland Clinic calls it chronic and says treatments can help manage symptoms, so expect home care and follow-up visits.
It depends on your plan and your testing. Call us to ask.
Find out what is behind your symptoms.
Sudden vision loss, eye pain, flashes or a curtain over your vision: call us or seek urgent care today.
Dr. Justin Hrabinski, O.D., Optometrist. Spectrum Vision, 2000 S Patrick Dr, Ste 7, Indian Harbour Beach, FL 32937. This page is general information and is not a substitute for an eye examination. Brand names are trademarks of their respective owners; Spectrum Vision is an independent eye care practice.
