If your eyes feel chronically dry, you’re not alone! Researchers report that up to 50% of the world’s population may suffer from symptoms of dry eye disease, also known as dry eye syndrome or simply “dry eye.”
If you’re experiencing any degree of eye dryness, redness or irritation, in LOCATION1 can treat the underlying cause of your dry eyes.
What Is Dry Eye?
Dry eye disease occurs either because the eyes don’t produce enough tears or because they’re unable to retain enough tears to hydrate the surface of the eyes. This results in eye discomfort that can be intermittent or chronic, mild, moderate or severe.
The first step toward getting relief is to have an eye exam to determine the underlying cause of your dry eye symptoms.
What Are The Symptoms of Dry Eyes?
Symptoms of dry eye may include:
- Dry or itchy eyes
- Blurred vision
- Tired/heavy eyes
- Watery eyes or discharge around the eye
- Red eyes
- Stinging or burning eyes
- Sensitivity to light
What Causes Dry Eye Disease?
- Blocked, infected or atrophied meibomian glands in the eyelids result in less oil reaching the eyes.
- Anything that reduces humidity at home, such as air conditioning, fans and heaters, can dry out the eyes.
- LASIK or refractive surgery
- When outdoors, environmental factors like dry air, wind and smoke can have the same drying effect.
- Risk of dry eyes rises substantially as you age, especially for women who have experienced hormonal changes due to pregnancy or menopause.
- People who spend a significant amount of time in front of a screen, whether a TV, computer, tablet or phone, blink less often. This causes the tears in our eyes to evaporate more quickly.
- Medical problems such as Lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to dry eyes.
- Certain medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, diuretics and birth control pills can cause dry eye.
- Allergies can also be a contributing factor to dry eye disease symptoms.
Dry Eye Treatment In LOCATION1
Ready to say goodbye to dry, irritated and gritty eyes? Once your ophthalmologist diagnoses you with dry eye disease, the eye doctor may recommend:
- Prescription eye drops, especially steroid eye drops, to help treat the inflammation that may be causing the eyes to be dry.
- In-office treatments to unblock the meibomian glands.
- Taking periodic “screen time” breaks.
- A humidifier.
- Warm compresses to help soften blocks in the meibomian glands and ease irritation.
If your eyes are feeling uncomfortable and dry, we can help. in LOCATION1 offers a complete range of eye treatments to suit your needs. Don’t delay and schedule your appointment today!
Our practice serves patients from CITY 1, CITY 2, CITY 3, and CITY 4, and surrounding communities.