Dr. Alan B. Schlussel –
The Dry Eye Doctor in Manhattan
New York & New Jersey’s Leading Dry Eye Center
If you suffer from dry eye, you know the discomfort and disruption it causes each day. That’s why Alan Schlussel, O.D. created the Dry Eye Treatment Center Of NY and The Dry Eye Treatment Center of NJ. Dr. Schlussel has been treating patients with dry eye with some of the most innovative new technologies.
Dry eyes, or dry eye syndrome, is one of the most common eye and vision problems today and can become more severe if left untreated.
For treatment visit Dr. Schlussel and his Center for Dry Eyes in NYC (Manhattan) and Center for Dry Eyes in West Orange.
- Phone: 646-846-8130
- Fax: 212-686-1704
New York, NY 10016
We're located on the corner of Third Avenue and East 33rd. Click on the Google Directions below and enter your starting address. Directions will be shown to our Manhattan, New York Dry Eye Treatment Center.
- Phone: 973-419-5340
- Fax: 973-736-1230
West Orange, NJ 07052
Click on the Google Directions below and enter your starting address. Directions will be shown to our West Orange, New Jersey Dry Eye Treatment Center.



As we age, we experience hormonal changes. These changes are known to cause or contribute to dry eyes. While this is true of both men and women, it seems that women over 50 are particularly more prone to developing dry eye symptoms. Pregnancy is also known to contribute to or exacerbate dry eye syndrome.
By increasing the rate at which our tears evaporate, the following environmental factors are known to play a huge role in causing or contributing to dry eyes:
- Smoke
- Allergens
- Pollution
- Cold-climate and central heating
- Dry climate
- Sandy or dusty conditions
- Altitude
Poor cleaning habits, not changing the contact often enough, and sleeping in contact lenses can all contribute to dry eyes. However, even for those who take proper care with their contacts, they can still be a contributing cause of dry eyes. In fact, one of the main reasons people discontinue contact lens usage is due to dry eyes. The good news is there have been major improvements across all the brands with special contacts that are aimed at preventing dry eye symptoms.



Various diseases contribute to, or even cause, dry eyes. Autoimmune diseases are a known factor. Rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren’s syndrome – a common symptom that rheumatologists treat can also contribute to dry eyes. Diabetics or those with Glaucoma that requires medication are also more likely to have dry eye syndrome.
As with everything, proper balanced diet and exercise are important in preventing or managing dry eye syndrome. There are two specific activities that relate directly to Dry Eyes.
Does Staring At A Screen Cause Dry Eye?
Continuous staring at a fixed object, such as a phone or computer screen, usually results in a decreased blink rate. The lack of blinking actually causes the eyes not to replenish the tears often enough. The meibomian glands, therefore, can become blocked or even atrophy and die.
Prolonged And Continuous Use Of Digital Devices Is Thought To Be The Likely Culprit In The Significant Increase Of Dry Eye Syndrome Throughout The General Population.
Does Drinking More Water Help With Dry Eye?
The main component of tears is water. Most of us don’t drink enough water. If you are dehydrated or not drinking enough, then you may not produce enough tears to keep your eyes moist. Snapple, Coke and other caffeinated drinks like coffee and tea may feel like they quench your thirst, but they actually dehydrate the body. Your body needs water to prevent dry eyes symptoms.
Whether prescription or over-the-counter, certain medications are known to decrease tear production or otherwise contribute to Dry Eye Syndrome. These include:
- Beta-blockers / blood pressure medications
- Antihistamines
- Decongestants
- AntiDepressants
- Oral Contraceptives