From Dry to Revived: Elevate Your Vision with Effective Eye Treatments
Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a chronic condition that develops when your eyes do not produce and maintain enough tears to keep the eye’s surface lubricated resulting in multiple symptoms that range from person to person. This can be due to a reduction in tear production or increased tear evaporation from a lack of lipid in the tears that stem from oil glands in the eyelids. The effects can range from minor dryness and discomfort to pain, blurred vision and frequent infections.
Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease
Symptoms of dry eye syndrome can vary depending on the severity of the condition but can include:
Dry, Itchy Eyes
Burning or Stinging
Irritation
Watery Eyes
Blurred Vision
Pain
Foreign Body Sensation
Tears keep eyes healthy by washing away debris and keeping them moist, smooth, and clear. They also remove dust and protect against bacterial infections. Dry eyes occur when tears are insufficient, causing discomfort and watery eyes.
Causes of Dry Eye Disease
Dry eyes can occur naturally as a result of aging or hormonal changes, typically in women who are pregnant, taking oral contraceptives or going through menopause. In fact, women over 50 have a 50% greater risk of dry eye disease than men do of the same age. It can also result from taking certain medications that reduce tear production such as antihistamines, blood pressure medications and antidepressants. Environmental factors can also play a role in drying out the eyes and DED is common in areas where the climate is dry, dusty and windy.
Home air conditioners or heating systems and excessive time spent staring at a computer or television screen can also dry out eyes and exacerbate symptoms due to the lack of blinking while staring at our screens.
Individuals that suffer from certain medical conditions such as diabetes, blepharitis, lupus, arthritis and thyroid problems are more vulnerable to developing DED. Other causes can be due to eye surgery including LASIK, certain conditions in which the eyelids don’t close properly or extended contact lens use.
Diagnosis of Dry Eye Disease
Typically, dry eye disease can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam and a description of your symptoms. On some occasions the eye doctor might decide to do a test that measures how quickly your tears evaporate from the surface of your eye. By instilling a simple dye called fluorescein (much like food coloring) the doctor is able to watch and count how long it takes the tears to start to break up after they’ve asked you to hold your eyes open after a blink. This is called TBUT or a Tear Break Up Time test. A low TBUT generally indicates a lipid (aka oil) deficiency in the tears resulting from oil glands in the eyelids not functioning properly.
In another type of test, called a Schirmer test, a strip of filter paper is placed under the lid of the eye and you will be asked to close your eye for five minutes. Following the test the amount of moisture on the strip will be measured. Schirmer tests are performed less frequently than a TBUT test.
Treatment for Dry Eye Disease
Various treatments are available for dry eyes, tailored to the condition's cause and severity. Mild cases often find relief with over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricant eye drops, while prescription drops or steroids may be recommended if symptoms persist. Severe dry eyes may benefit from a punctal insert, addressing eyelid inflammation with compress masks, specialty eyelid scrubs, or antibiotics. Punctal plugs, reducing tear drainage, are options for severe cases.
External factors, such as environmental conditions, can contribute to dry eyes. Eliminating these triggers, using protective eyewear, and staying hydrated are preventive measures. Adjusting medication or contact lens use may alleviate symptoms, and your doctor can guide you in finding the most suitable solution.
While dry eye disease doesn't have a permanent impact on vision, managing symptoms is crucial. With a range of treatment options available, including consistent eye care practices, there's no need to endure discomfort.