Dry Eye Disease & Dry Eye Treatment
Do your eyes itch, burn or feel gritty? Do they water? Are your eyelids crusty in the morning? Does your vision fluctuate throughout the day? These are all symptoms of dry eye or of problems.
What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye is a condition which occurs when there are not enough quality tears to lubricate the eye. The eyes are either not producing enough tears or are producing poor quality tears. Tears are necessary for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision. Tears provide lubrication, reduce the risk of eye infection, wash away foreign matter in the eye and keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear. Poor quality tears lead to cell damage and death which creates inflammation on the surface of the eye. Dry eye disease is common, chronic, and often progressive.
Who is more at risk?
- Age. Dry eyes are a part of the natural aging process. Most people over age 65 experience some symptoms of dry eyes.
- Gender. Women are more likely to develop dry eyes due to hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives and menopause.
- Medications. Certain medicines, including antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants, can reduce tear production.
- Medical conditions. People with rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, diabetes, and thyroid problems are more likely to have symptoms of dry eyes.
- Environmental Conditions. Exposure to allergens, smoke, wind, and dry climates can increase tear evaporation resulting in dry eye symptoms. Failure to blink regularly, such as when staring at a computer screen for long periods of time, can also contribute to drying of the eyes.
- Other factors. Long-term use of contact lenses can be a factor in the development of dry eyes. Refractive eye surgeries, such as LASIK, can decrease tear production and contribute to dry eyes.
Advanced dry eyes may damage the front surface of the eye and impair vision permanently.