What is "Dry Eye?"
The tears your eyes normally produce are necessary for overall eye health and clear
vision. Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or produce
tears which do not have the proper chemical composition.
What causes Dry Eye?
Dry eye symptoms can result from the normal aging process, exposure to environmental
conditions, problems with normal blinking or from medications such as
antihistamines, oral contraceptives or antidepressants. Dry eye can also be
symptomatic of general health problems, other diseases or can result from
chemical or thermal burns to the eye.
What are the Signs/Symptoms of Dry Eye?
The most common signs/symptoms include stinging, itchy, scratchy and uncomfortable
eyes; and sometimes having a burning feeling or a feeling of something foreign
within the eye. You may experience increased dry eye symptoms on awakening. Some
people experience an overly wet eye. This is a natural reflex to comfort a dry
eye.
How is Dry Eye diagnosed?
During the examination, your doctor of optometry will ask you questions about your
general health, your use of medications and your home and work environments to
determine any factors which may be causing dry eye symptoms. This information
will help us to decide whether to perform dry eye tests. These tests allow your
doctor to evaluate the quality, the amount and the distribution of tears to
detect signs of dry eyes.
Can Dry Eye be cured?
Dry eye cannot be cured, but your eyes' sensitivity can be lessened and measures taken
so your eyes remain healthy. The most frequent treatment is the use of
artificial tears or tear substitutes. For more severe dry eye, ointment can be
used, especially at bedtime. In some cases, small plugs may be inserted in the
corner of the eyelids to slow drainage and loss of tears.
Will Dry Eye harm my eyes?
If dry eye is untreated, it can harm your eyes. Excessive dry eye can damage tissue and
possibly scar the cornea of your eye, impairing vision. Dry eye can make contact
lens wear more difficult due to increased irritation and a greater chance of eye
infection. To keep dry eye symptoms in check, you and your doctor of optometry
need to work together. Follow the instructions carefully.
If you have increased
dryness or redness that is not relieved by the prescribed treatment, let us know
as soon as possible.
If you continue to have discomfort, the drops may be
used more frequently or as needed. You should return for follow-up care as
recommended. |
