Dry Eye Diseases
Dry Eye Diseases
The following symptoms may be indicative of dry eye disease: redness, burning, itching, foreign body sensation, light sensitivity, watering or tired eyes, decreased contact lens comfort, dry throat or mouth, arthritis or joint pain.
If left untreated, these symptoms will most likely intensify and make daily life unpleasant while also interfering with vision.
There are many causes of dry eye disease, which explains why millions are affected. The most common contributors include:
- Aging process: tear production decreases with age – the majority of individuals over 65 have dry eyes.
- Hormonal changes associated with age, pregnancy, oral contraceptives and menopause
- Ocular allergies, allergy medication, some blood pressure medications, contact lens wear and laser vision correction surgeries (LASIK), environmental triggers such as smoke, wind, dry climate, air conditioning/fan
- Eyelid inflammation - blepharitis, entropion (eyelid turning in) or ectropion (eyelid turning out)
- Autoimmune disorders - Sjogren syndrome, thyroid dysfunction, and rheumatoid arthritis
- Prolonged screen time on the computer, cellular phone or reading
Treatment
Treatment consists of identifying any contributing factors that are listed above and targeted therapy.
Punctal occluders help to hold tears in the eye for a longer duration. Tear supplements/ointments are useful for inadequate tear production and evaporative loss.
