Dry Eyes
Over 20 million Americans have dry eyes, also known as dysfunctional tear syndrome. Dry eyes often go undiagnosed, which means millions of people suffer from this condition and may not even know it or are not receiving the proper diagnosis for it.
What are Dry Eyes?
Dry eyes occur when your eyes are unable to produce enough tears to lubricate the surface of your eyes. Dry eyes can cause inflammation and may even cause damage to the surface of your eyes.
This eye disorder affects the three layers of tear film present in each eye. These layers include fats, oils, mucus, and a dilute saltwater solution.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
Some of the most common symptoms associated with dry eye include:
- Light sensitivity or intolerance
- Crusty material on your eyelids
- Feeling like you have sand in your eyes
- Inability to wear contact lenses
- Excess tears
- Redness in the eyes
- Blurry vision
You may notice that your symptoms seem worse when you have spent many hours reading or using the computer, later in the day, or in dry or windy weather conditions.
Common causes of dry eye include:
- Natural aging
- Medications like antihistamines
- Hormone changes
- Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis
Treatment for Dry Eye
You may be able to reduce your symptoms at home by spending less time in front of screens, using a home humidifier, placing an air filter in your HVAC system, and always wearing sunglasses outside. When you have tried everything and still have dry eye, you could benefit from an eye exam. We can help. Call or visit us today!
