Many people suffer from dry eyes at some point in their lifetime. If you have chronic dry eye syndrome, this may be cause for concern. This condition can be characterized by:
Itching
Burning
Watery eyes
Discomfort
Inflammation
Feeling like there is something in your eye
Blurred vision
Redness
Dry eyes are caused by problems in the production of tear fluid. If the tears produced by your eyes are do not contain enough moisture, lubrication, or other features that help keep your eyes protected, your eyes can become dry and red.
This condition may be worsened by environmental issues like weather, pollution and altitude, which can irritate your eyes and dry up your tears. Aging can cause an oil deficiency in your eyes that can result in itchy and watery eyes. When your tears evaporate too quickly, your corneas will become sore. This creates redness and irritation.
A widespread problem
It is estimated that more than 10 million people in America suffer from dry eye syndrome. Experts believe that people who engage in nearsighted tasks and wear contacts are more likely to develop dry eyes. This may include activities like:
Reading fine print
Working on a computer
Technical work where objects must be held close to the face
Treatment options
Treatment for dry eyes will vary depending on the severity of your dry eye syndrome. Most people receive relief using artificial tears, eye drops, or ointments that simulate the production of tears.
Punctal plugs
Sometimes your tear ducts, the drainage ducts located in the inner corners of each eye that carry tears away from your eye’s surface, will become blocked. When this happens, tears will have trouble draining out. By placing punctal plugs or occluders in your eyes, the tears will become trapped and will remain on your eye’s surface for a longer period of time. This quick and painless treatment will help lubricate your eyes and alleviate dry eye syndrome.
Punctal plugs are extremely safe and can be removed in mere seconds.
Over the counter eye drops
Eye drops vary in composition and effectiveness. Some are designed to provide short-term relief from occasional, situational dry eyes, while others are designed for more frequent chronic dry eye and may provide longer-term relief. You can get eye drops with preservatives and others without. Over-the-counter medications can alleviate many of the symptoms and discomforts caused by dry eyes.
Prescription eye drops
A new medication called RESTASIS® Ophthalmic Emulsion may also be a good option. This FDA-approved prescription eye drop supports your eye’s production for increased natural tears. This can help offset deficient tear production.
It is a good idea to discuss with an ophthalmologist before beginning treatment with eye drops. This will help you understand which eye drops or treatment method is best for your individual needs. Some over-the-counter medications work best for some people, while others best benefit from punctal occluders.
Tips for preventing dry eyes
If you engage in activities that are strenuous on your eyes, make sure to take frequent breaks to avoid irritation. Here are some other tips:
Drink enough water to keep the body moisturized
Minimize time in certain weather conditions like windy and dry weather
Take breaks when watching TV, using the computer or other eye straining activities
Eat healthy foods rich in vitamin A, C, and E
When necessary, take supplements containing flax seed and Omega-3 fatty acids
Protect your eyes from harsh wind and dust
Always remove contact lenses at night
Get plenty of sleep to keep your eyes healthy
Ask whether your medication may cause dry eyes
If you live in the Los Angeles area and suffer from dry eye syndrome, please contact our office today. Orange County ophthalmologist Dr. Khanna and his staff can help alleviate this condition and make your life enjoyable once again. Please call today to schedule your free vision screening.
Tags: artificial tears, burning watery eyes, dry eye syndrome, dry eyes, face treatment, inner corners, laser vision correction, painless treatment, punctal plugs, tear ducts