A 2007 American Journal of Ophthalmology study reported that individuals with Dry Eye Syndrome were hampered when trying to perform normal, everyday activities like reading, driving, using the computer, and more.
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Your eyes rely on tears to provide moisture, lubrication, and comfort. Dry Eye Syndrome is a common eye disease in which the quantity or quality of tears is diminished. This can lead to eye irritation, fatigue, visual disturbances, and of course, dryness of the eyes.
What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?
- There is no one cause of Dry Eye Syndrome.
- The most common cause of dry eyes is age. As we grow older, our tear production diminishes. This leaves most individuals over the age of 65 with at least some symptoms of dry eye.
- The simplest treatable underlying cause for dry eye symptoms is Blepharitis.
- Another cause of Dry Eye Syndrome is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Failure of these glands to produce or secrete oil – due to chronic blockage, thickening of the meibum, etc. will negatively affect the tear film, which in turn will result in dry eye symptoms.
- Dry eyes can be a side effect of medications, like antihistamines, blood pressure medicine, and antidepressants.
- Dry eyes can develop as a symptom of another medical condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid problems.
- Dry eyes can even develop from the long-term use of contacts.
- And more.
As you can see, there are several ways in which an individual can develop dry eyes.
What are the Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome?
There are several signs and symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome, including:
- Pain
- Sensitivity to light
- A gritty sensation
- Feeling like ‘something’ is in the eye
- Itching
- Redness
- Blurred vision / Blurry vision
- Varying vision clarity
- Dryness
If you feel you may be experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor – optometrist or ophthalmologist – as soon as possible. While there is no cure for dry eyes, there are several treatment methods that can be taken to alleviate the symptoms of dry eyes and restore and enhance the health and the quality of the normal tear film. We don’t just want to treat symptoms, but we want to address and attack the underlying CAUSE to help restore healthier ocular surface.
How is Dry Eye Syndrome Treated?
If you are diagnosed with Dry Eye Syndrome, you have several treatment options, including:
- Artificial tears
- Punctal Occlusion (Temporary and Permanent)
- Medications, like Restasis
- Surgery
To find out which dry eye treatment is right for you, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. He/she will be able to diagnose your specific situation and guide you on the right treatment path.
To learn more about Dry Eye Syndrome, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Samuel Boles, consultative optometrist Dr. Nathan Frank, and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here to visit AnneArundelEyeCenter.com.
Located in Annapolis, Maryland, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers comprehensive specialized ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care. Specializing in glaucoma and cataracts, Dr. Boles has helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision. Vision problems may be a natural part of aging. Losing your vision doesn’t have to be.
For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.
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