Is Your Pet’s Eye Dry? Understanding the Comprehensive Ocular Examination with Dr. Carlos Sandrea

Is your pet experiencing watery eyes, squinting, or redness? These could be signs of dry eye, a common and uncomfortable condition. Dr. Carlos Sandrea, serving Ft. Lauderdale and South Florida, offers the Comprehensive Ocular Examination to diagnose and address this issue, ensuring your furry friend’s ocular health.

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What is the Comprehensive Ocular Examination?

The Comprehensive Ocular Examination is a simple, non-invasive procedure used to measure tear production in your pet’s eyes. It involves placing a small strip of specialized filter paper inside the lower eyelid for a short period. The paper absorbs the tears produced, and the amount of moisture absorbed indicates the tear film’s quantity. This test helps Dr. Sandrea determine if your pet is producing enough tears to keep their eyes healthy and comfortable.

Why is the Comprehensive Ocular Examination Important?

Adequate tear production is crucial for maintaining your pet’s eye health. Tears provide essential lubrication, wash away debris, and protect the eye from infection. Insufficient tear production, known as dry eye or keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), can lead to:

  • Discomfort and pain: Dry eyes can feel gritty and irritated, causing your pet to rub their eyes excessively.
  • Redness and inflammation: The eyes may appear red and inflamed due to the lack of lubrication.
  • Eye infections: Dry eyes are more susceptible to infections due to a compromised tear film.
  • Corneal damage: In severe cases, dry eye can lead to corneal ulcers and even vision loss.

When Might Your Pet Need a Comprehensive Ocular Examination?

Dr. Sandrea may recommend a Comprehensive Ocular Examination if your pet exhibits any of the following symptoms:

  • Excessive tearing or watery eyes: While it seems counterintuitive, watery eyes can sometimes be a sign of dry eye as the eye attempts to compensate.
  • Squinting or blinking excessively: This may indicate discomfort and an attempt to lubricate the eyes.
  • Redness or inflammation of the eyes: Dry eyes can cause the eyes to appear red and irritated.
  • Eye discharge: A thick, mucoid discharge can be a sign of dry eye.
  • Rubbing or pawing at the eyes: This suggests irritation and discomfort.
  • Chronic eye infections: Dry eye can predispose pets to recurrent eye infections.

What to Expect During the Comprehensive Ocular Examination:

The Comprehensive Ocular Examination is a quick and relatively painless procedure. Dr. Sandrea will gently place the tear test strip in your pet’s lower eyelid. Your pet may experience some mild tearing, which is normal. The strip will remain in place for a short time, and then Dr. Sandrea will measure the amount of tear production.

Treatment for Dry Eye:

If the Comprehensive Ocular Examination confirms dry eye, Dr. Sandrea will develop a personalized treatment plan for your pet. This may include:

  • Artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops to supplement tear production.
  • Medications: To stimulate tear production or reduce inflammation.
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be recommended.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Sandrea Today!

If you’re concerned about your pet’s eye health, schedule a consultation with Dr. Carlos Sandrea. He is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive veterinary care to pets in Ft. Lauderdale and the surrounding South Florida communities. Don’t let dry eye compromise your pet’s comfort and vision. Contact us today to learn more about the Comprehensive Ocular Examination and how we can help your furry friend see clearly and comfortably.

Serving Ft. Lauderdale and South Florida