Dry Eyes: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Dry Eyes: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What is Dry Eye? Dry Eyes, as the name suggests, is a common condition that occurs when your tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. This may be because of two reasons: either your eyes don't produce enough tears or the eyes produce poor-quality tears.

When you have dry eyes, your eyes feel irritated and, in some cases, cause eyesight problems. Your eyes may sting or burn and make you feel uncomfortable.

However, dry eyes almost can never cause permanent vision loss.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes Dry eyes usually affect both eyes. The symptoms of Dry eyes include:

1. Irritation 2. Red eyes 3. Blurry vision 4. Burning sensation 5. Sensitivity to light 6. A scratchy sensation, as if something is in your eye 7. Stringy Mucus

What Causes Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes are caused due to the disruption of the healthy tear film.

There are three layers of a tear: oily outer layer, the watery middle layer, and the inner mucus layer. If any of the three layers dysfunctions, it causes dry eyes.

The Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome include: 1. Hormone Changes 2. Auto Immune Diseases 3. Allergic Eye Diseases 4. Inflamed Eyelid Glands 5. Aging 6. Long-term Contact lens wear 7. Certain Medications such as antihistamines, nasal decongestants, birth control

pills, and antidepressants

Dry Eyes Treatment Treatment for dry eyes is usually determined by the cause of your symptoms.

There are several treatment options available to help alleviate your symptoms and keep your eyes healthy. Look at the treatments below:

1. Over –the-counter Eye Drops: If the symptoms you are experiencing for dry eyes are mild, then eye drops work wonders.

2. Medications: In case of severe dry eyes issues, visiting a reputable ophthalmologist is recommended. The doctor may prescribe proper medication based on your symptoms and causes.

3. Surgery: In some cases, when a person has loose lower eyelids, doctors suggest surgeries. Loose lower eyelids actually drain tears too quickly from your eye, making your eyes feel dry and irritated. Lasik Surgery Specialists repairs your eyelids and allows your tears to stay in your eyes.

4. Lifestyle Changes: Making positive lifestyle changes can help improve your dry eyes condition. Improvements can include:  Avoid Smoking  Avoid air blowing into your eyes  Take eye breaks during long working hours  Add moisture in the air using humidifier  Protect your eyes from UV damage by wearing sunglasses