At Mohawk Eyecare, we often see how diabetes affects more than just blood sugar—it can take a toll on eye health, too. One of the most common, yet overlooked, complications is dry eye disease. For patients in New Castle and the surrounding communities, understanding the link between diabetes and dry eye can make all the difference in protecting both comfort and long-term vision.
A Familiar Story from Our Clinic
Not long ago, a patient managing type 2 diabetes came in complaining that her eyes felt constantly irritated—burning in the morning, watery at work, and blurry by evening. She assumed it was just from staring at a computer. After testing, we diagnosed her with dry eye disease related to diabetes. With a treatment plan that included specialized drops and simple lifestyle adjustments, she finally found relief.
Her story isn’t unusual. Many people with diabetes experience dry eye symptoms but don’t realize the two conditions are connected.
How Diabetes Triggers Dry Eye
Dry eye disease happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Diabetes makes this more likely in several ways:
- Nerve damage (neuropathy): Diabetes can affect the nerves that control tear production.
- Poor circulation: Reduced blood flow can impact the tiny glands in your eyelids that keep tears stable.
- Inflammation: Higher blood sugar levels increase inflammation, which can damage the delicate surface of the eye.
- Medication side effects: Some medications used to manage diabetes also contribute to dryness.
The result? Eyes that burn, sting, feel gritty, or water excessively—symptoms that interfere with reading, driving, and working comfortably.
Why New Castle Patients Shouldn’t Ignore Dry Eye
It’s easy to brush off dry eye as a nuisance, but for people with diabetes, untreated dry eye can raise the risk of eye infections, corneal damage, and reduced quality of vision. For patients already managing diabetic eye disease, that added stress on the eyes can make everyday tasks even harder.
Treatment Options for Diabetic Dry Eye in New Castle
The good news? You don’t have to live with constant irritation. At Mohawk Eyecare, we offer advanced solutions designed to treat the root cause of dry eye—not just mask symptoms. Depending on what we find during your exam, treatment may include:
- Prescription eye drops to reduce inflammation and improve tear quality.
- Punctal plugs to help your natural tears stay on the surface longer.
- Nutritional support, including omega-3 supplements, to strengthen the tear film.
- Specialty contact lenses like scleral lenses, which create a protective moisture layer over the eye.
- IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy to reduce inflammation and target meibomian gland dysfunction.
- RF (Radiofrequency) treatment to gently warm and unclog blocked oil glands for lasting relief.
Each treatment plan is tailored to your needs, with special attention to how diabetes may be influencing your eye health.
Personalized Dry Eye Care at Mohawk Eyecare
Our approach goes beyond quick fixes. During a comprehensive evaluation, we use advanced diagnostics to understand exactly what’s happening with your tear film and ocular surface. Then we’ll walk you through your options, answer questions, and create a plan that fits your lifestyle.
We know how important comfort and clarity are for patients managing diabetes. That’s why our team takes the time to not only treat dry eye but also educate you on daily strategies—like staying hydrated, using warm compresses, and adjusting screen habits—to keep your eyes healthier between visits.
Take Control of Diabetes and Dry Eye in New Castle
If you’re living with diabetes and struggling with burning, watery, or irritated eyes, don’t ignore the symptoms. At Mohawk Eyecare in New Castle, our eye doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye disease—with solutions designed to restore comfort and protect your vision.
Schedule your appointment and let us help you take the next step toward healthier eyes and a better quality of life.