Dry eye syndrome
Irritated & itchy eyes
What is dry eye?
Dry eye syndrome, also known simply as dry eye, is a common condition that occurs when your tears aren’t able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. This can happen for several reasons: either the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears that are produced are of poor quality. The result is inflammation and damage to the eye’s surface.
Dry eye can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Aging: Tear production tends to decrease as you get older, especially in women after menopause.
- Medical conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid problems can affect tear production.
- Medications: Certain medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants, can reduce tear secretion.
- Environmental conditions: Exposure to smoke, wind, and dry climates can increase tear evaporation.
- Long-term use of contact lenses: Can contribute to dry eyes.
- Screen use: Staring at computer screens, smartphones, or other digital devices for long periods can reduce blinking frequency, leading to tear evaporation.
- Eyelid problems: Issues that prevent the eyelids from closing properly can cause dry eyes.
Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome 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
- Blurry vision, often worsening at the end of the day or after focusing for a prolonged period
- Watery eyes, which is the body’s response to the irritation of dry eyes
How can dry eye be treated?
Treatment for dry eye aims to restore or maintain the normal amount of tears in the eye to minimise dryness and related discomfort and to maintain eye health.
- Artificial tears: For mild cases of dry eye, over-the-counter artificial tear solutions can be effective.
- Prescription eye drops: These can include medications that reduce inflammation on the surface of your eyes or stimulate tear production.
- Punctal plugs: Tiny silicone plugs can be inserted into the tear ducts to block tear drainage, increasing tear volume on the eye’s surface.
- Special contact lenses: Certain types of contact lenses, known as scleral lenses or bandage lenses, can reduce dry eye symptoms by retaining moisture.
- Lifestyle and home remedies: Increasing humidity in the home or work environment, taking eye breaks during long tasks, and ensuring adequate hydration can help.
- Surgical options: In severe cases, surgical procedures might be considered to close the tear ducts and reduce tear loss.
Managing dry eye syndrome often requires a combination of treatments depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Regular consultations with our Optometrists are essential for individuals suffering from dry eye to determine the most effective treatment plan.
How can our optometrists detect dry eye?
Based on the findings, we’ll discuss the most effective treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Our goal is to ensure you understand your condition and the steps you can take to improve your eye comfort and health. Whether your treatment plan includes lifestyle adjustments, over-the-counter solutions, prescription medications, or other therapies, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
At Abra & Co., we believe in a patient-centered approach, ensuring that each visit is informative, reassuring, and leads to actionable solutions for your dry eye symptoms. Trust us to provide the care and expertise you need for clearer, more comfortable vision.
