Dry eye occurs when your tears do not offer enough lubrication for the eyes. Tear instability may damage the eye’s surface by causing inflammation. Dry eyes are uncomfortable and may burn or sting. Individuals may take their eye health for granted, but having dry eyes can alter your daily affairs and cause you to produce poor quality or quantity tears.
The cause of dry eye is a disruption of healthy tear film. The tear film has three layers comprised of fatty oils, aqueous fluid, and mucus. The surface of your eyes should remain lubricated, clear, and smooth from this combination.
Your tear film dysfunction may result from several reasons, such as having an allergic eye reaction, inflamed eyelid glands, hormonal changes, or autoimmune disease. For some individuals, dry eyes may result from an increase in tear evaporation or a decrease in tear production.
The meibomian glands, which are the oil film on the eyelids' edges, may be clogged. People with rosacea or other skin disorders commonly have blocked meibomian glands. Other causes of increased tear evaporation include a deficiency in vitamin A, wind, dry air, smoke, or eye allergies.
Blinking less often can also increase tear evaporation. Often, this occurs due to conditions like Parkinson’s disease. Concentrating while working on the computer, driving, or reading can also cause you to blink fewer times than usual.
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is the medical term for one's inability to produce enough water or aqueous fluid, leading to dry eyes. The common causes for a decrease in tear production may include aging, having medical conditions such as allergic eye disease, lupus, or a deficiency of vitamin A. Certain medications can also affect the production of tears, such as drugs for acne, high blood pressure, or even birth control.
It is important to note that some signs and symptoms affect both eyes, as follows:
Eye fatigue or blurred vision
Redness of the eyes
Light sensitivity
Stringy mucus around or in your eyes
A scratchy, stinging, and burning sensation in the eyes
Feeling as though you have something in your eyes
Watery eyes
Difficulty driving at night
Although there is no cure for dry eye today, there are many treatments available. For mild cases, you may only require the occasional eye drops or a humidifier. With severe symptoms, your optician may prescribe supplemental nutrients and ongoing or temporary anti-inflammatory eye drops.
You can also prevent having dry eyes by being mindful of things that can irritate your eyes, such as hair dryers, air conditioners, smoke, wind, or chemicals. Avoid spending a lot of time on your computer and participate in more outdoor activities. Wearing protective eyewear can help keep your eyes moist.
If you have been experiencing dry eyes for more than a few days, talk to your doctor before resorting to seeking over-the-counter eye drops. It is always best to ensure what problem you might be having.
For more on dry eyes, contact Justice Vision Clinic at our office in Duluth, Georgia. You can call (770) 626-7883 today to schedule an appointment.