Dry Eye Evaluation and Treatment

What is Dry Eye? 

According to the American Optometric Association, dry eye is a condition in which a person doesn’t have enough quality tears to lubricate and nourish the eye. Tears are necessary for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision.

What Causes Dry Eye? 

People can develop dry eye for many different reasons. Many people over the age of 65 experience symptoms of dry eyes as part of the aging process. Women are more likely to develop dry eyes due to hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives and menopause. Some common medicines, such as antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications and antidepressants can reduce the production of tears. People with certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or thyroid problems, are more likely to experience dry eye symptoms. Other underlying causes of dry eyes include inflammation of the eyelids and inflammation of the surfaces of the eye. Exposure to cold, smoke, and dry climates can lead to tear evaporation, which in turn leads to dry eye symptoms. Failure of the eyes to blink frequently (during long periods of computer use for example) may also play a part in that process.

What are Symptoms of Dry Eye? 

Signs and symptoms of Dry Eye, which usually affect both eyes, may include:

• A stinging, burning or scratchy sensation in your eyes
• Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye redness
• A sensation of having something in your eyes
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Difficulty with nighttime driving
• Watery eyes, which is the body’s response to the irritation of dry eyes
• Blurred vision or eye fatigue

How is Dry Eye Diagnosed? 

At Spring House Eye Associates, our optometrists can diagnose Dry Eye through an evaluation of the quantity and quality of tears produced by the eyes, consideration of the patient’s symptoms, health history, medications, and environmental factors. With the information obtained from the Dry Eye Evaluation, our optometrists can determine if the patient has dry eyes and can advise on treatment options.

How is Dry Eye Treated? 

While dry eye can be a chronic condition, our optometrists can prescribe treatment to help patients maintain healthy eyes, minimize dryness and discomfort, and prevent vision from being affected. Primary treatments for the management and treatment of dry eye includes using artificial tears, increasing tear production, and treating inflammation of the eyelids or the eye surface. 

Symptoms of Dry Eye are Uncomfortable – but We Can Help!