Dry eye is an eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eye does not produce enough tears to stay wet or when the tears evaporate too quickly. As a result, it causes discomfort, irritation, and even damage to the eyes.

What Causes Dry Eyes

Your eyes have a tear gland, which constantly makes tears every time you blink and spreads it over your eye. Its purpose is to keep the eye moist and your vision clean. As people age, it is typical for the glands to make fewer tears because of hormonal changes. It results in dry eyes. But even younger people may experience this condition.

Dry eye occurs due to many reasons, like:
 

• Doing activities that reduce blinking, like staring at a computer screen

• Lack of vitamin A or omega-3 fatty acids

• Red or swollen eyelids

• Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Sjogren’s syndrome

• Certain medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants

• Exposure to dry air, wind, and smoke

• Wearing contact lenses for extended periods

• You have an eyelid condition like ectropion where the lids are turned outwards

• Certain eye surgeries, such as LASIK, can cause temporary dry eyes as a side effect

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

The symptoms of dry eyes can vary from person to person, but some of the most common include:
 

• A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes

• Burning or stinging sensation

• Redness and inflammation of the eyes

• Sensitivity to light

• Blurred vision

• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

• Eye fatigue

Treatment Options for Dry Eyes

There are several treatment options available for dry eyes. Some of the most effective treatment options include:
 

• Artificial tears – These are eye drops mimicking your natural tears and can be used to lubricate the eyes. There are many options out there. You can buy them without a prescription.

• Prescription eye drops – If artificial tears do not provide relief, your eye doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops, like cyclosporine or lifitegrast. These eye drops can help increase tear production.

• Special contact lenses – Called scleral or bandage lenses, these special contact lenses trap moisture and protect your eye’s surface

• Punctal plugs – These are tiny plugs you put in the tear ducts. They help prevent tears from draining too quickly.

• Light therapy and eyelid massage – It is a treatment option for severe dry eyes. It uses an intense-pulsed light therapy technique followed by an eyelid massage.

• Lifestyle changes – Making lifestyle changes, such as taking frequent breaks when using electronic devices, avoiding smoke and dry environments, and staying hydrated, can help alleviate dry eyes

• Nutritional supplements – Omega-3 fatty acids and flaxseed oil supplements can help improve the quality of tears and reduce eye inflammation

• Surgery – In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to treat a severe case of dry eyes

Having dry eyes can be frustrating and uncomfortable. However, you can easily manage it with the right treatment and prevention methods. If you are experiencing any symptoms of dry eyes, speak to an eye doctor who can provide you with the appropriate treatment options.

Your eyes are important – don’t take them for granted. For comprehensive and reliable eye care, visit Positive Eye Ons Optometry office in West Hollywood, California. Set up an appointment online or call the team at (323) 651-5646.