Vision Therapy in Myrtle Beach

Age-Related Dry Eye: Causes and Solutions

(843) 903-6262

Addressing the Challenges of Dry Eyes As We Age

As we age, our bodies undergo various transformations, including changes in our eye health. One common age-related condition that many individuals encounter is dry eye syndrome. Understanding the factors contributing to this condition and how to manage it effectively becomes increasingly crucial as we age.

Dry eye syndrome in older adults often arises from a combination of factors related to aging and other external influences.

woman with sore eyes


Exploring Age-Related Factors Contributing to Dry Eye

man inspecting medication

  • Tear Gland Function

    Our tear gland function may decline as we age, leading to reduced tear production. This decrease in tear volume can result in dryness and discomfort.

  • Environmental Factors

    Seniors may encounter different environmental conditions that exacerbate dry eye symptoms, such as increased indoor heating or air conditioning systems.

  • Medications That Can Cause Dry Eye

    Certain medications commonly prescribed to older adults, such as hypertension tablets, can have side effects that contribute to dry eyes. It's essential to understand how these drugs may impact your eye health.

  • Underlying Medical Conditions

    Age-related health conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, can also increase the risk of dry eye syndrome. Managing these conditions is integral to overall eye health.


Eye Comfort Strategies as We Grow Older

Age-related dry eye does not have to be a constant source of discomfort. With the guidance of eye care professionals, seniors can explore various treatment options to alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life.

  • Customized Treatment Plans

    Eye care providers can create personalized treatment plans tailored to address the specific needs of seniors with dry eye syndrome.

  • Lifestyle Modifications

    Simple adjustments to daily routines, such as incorporating humidifiers in living spaces or using preservative-free artificial tears, can significantly improve eye comfort.

  • Medication Management

    In cases where medications contribute to dry eye, healthcare providers can explore alternative treatments or adjustments to minimize side effects.

  • Regular Eye Exams

    Routine eye exams are essential for monitoring age-related eye conditions, allowing for early detection and intervention when necessary.

Patient Reviews
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383 Reviews
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- Jan. 29, 2026
We have recently moved to the area and hated the fact that we had to start all over again with healt... h care providers. This was an excellent choice.
- Jan. 25, 2026
The staff is great. I would highly recommend this eyecare place.
- Jan. 24, 2026
Their Optician quickly helped me narrow down my selections to choose a pair of glasses that I was ve... ry happy to buy with a lens option that I didn’t know I could get.
- Jan. 24, 2026
Always a great experience.
- Jan. 22, 2026
What a pleasant experience. The staff was so nice and welcoming.
- Jan. 15, 2026
If you want the latest technology to detect ocular disorders, this is the place ! Make an appointmen... t today!
- Jan. 15, 2026
I came to Carolina Forest Family Eyecare after a really negative experience at LensCrafters and hone... stly didn’t have very high expectations—but I was pleasantly surprised from start to finish. The facility itself is beautiful and feels very high-end. The waiting area is comfortable, the bathrooms are accessible, and I didn’t have to wait long at all for my appointment. Every member of the support staff was friendly and welcoming. Dr. Alavi is an absolute hoot—animated, funny, and incredibly knowledgeable. She took the time to answer all of my questions without ever making me feel rushed. She also explained why I had such a difficult time getting contact lenses elsewhere: after having LASIK years ago, I’m not a great candidate for contacts—something no one had ever bothered to clearly communicate to me before. They have a fantastic selection of frames, ranging from under $200 to well over $700 (yes, the Tom Fords were tempting!). Picking up my glasses and getting them fitted was quick and easy. When I realized I still wasn’t reading as well as I should, I went back and they re-measured where the progressives started and ordered new lenses. I was able to keep my glasses while waiting for the new lenses, and they simply popped the replacements in when they arrived. I even asked to keep the original lenses as a backup—and they let me. To top it all off, when I returned to pick up the new lenses during the week of Christmas, Dr. Alavi was there in a full-on elf suit. She is my people. Highly recommend Carolina Forest Family Eyecare—professional, thorough, kind, and genuinely fun to work with.
- Jan. 15, 2026
Good experience.
- Jan. 15, 2026
I have finally found my forever eyecare professionals at this location! This is the third provider I... 've seen since I moved to this area and as someone who has been seeing eye doctors for 69+ years I can say without a doubt that this place is top-notch. The latest equipment for important testing, friendly staff, great atmosphere, good frame selectioon and Dr A is outstanding. She is very thorough and I learned a lot from her.
- Jan. 07, 2026
Friendly, professional and compassionate staff. They can provide easy to understand explanations fo... r subject matter that can be complex at times.
- Dec. 21, 2025
Wonderful office. From the time I walked in to when I left, I felt complete. All the staff was great... . The Dr was wonderful. She explained everything to me about my eyes. I didn't feel rushed. Found my new office.
- Dec. 21, 2025
Exam was thorough. Questions were answered fully. Staff was friendly and on time. No waiting beyond ... appointmenmt time. Would definitely recommend this practice to frinds and relatives.
- Dec. 10, 2025
Dr Weshefsky was excellent, took his time with me explaining the scans, what we were looking at and ... specific treatments. Very thorough!
- Nov. 26, 2025
Excellent service from start to finish
- Nov. 20, 2025
Great, Friendly, Thorough, Knowledgeable,
- Nov. 04, 2025
Office is conveniently located. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Wait times are never very long... .
- Nov. 02, 2025
Great atmosphere. Fast friendly service
- Oct. 21, 2025
Professional, friendly staff; great service
- Oct. 09, 2025
Friendly and knowledgeable staff that value your input and time.
- Sep. 18, 2025
Would highly recommend Dr Alavi

View All 383 Reviews

Dry Eyes in Myrtle Beach

Our optometry practice in Myrtle Beach

Photograph of Thomas Weshefsky
Hours
  • Monday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Tuesday 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Wednesday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
  • Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
  • Friday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
  • Saturday Closed
  • Sunday Closed
Insurance Plans
  • VSP
  • Medicare
  • United Healthcare
  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • EyeMed
  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Blue Cross

man in examination

Carolina Forest Family Eyecare Prioritizes Your Vision and Comfort

As we journey through life, aging brings changes to our bodies, including our eyes. By understanding the causes and effective management of age-related dry eye, you can enjoy improved eye comfort and clarity, enhancing your well-being in your golden years.

Call Carolina Forest Family Eyecare today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and discuss personalized dry eye strategies.

(843) 903-6262