Do your eyes feel dry and itchy? Are you constantly rubbing your eyes or using eye drops? You may have thought allergies or a change in the weather was to blame, but there could be another explanation: dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome can be an uncomfortable and sometimes painful condition, especially if ignored or left untreated. In this post, we will discuss what dry eye is, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, how to treat and prevent it.
Symptoms of dry eye syndrome
Dry eye symptoms can vary from person to person, but they typically include dryness, redness, itching, burning, stinging, and blurred vision. You might also feel like there’s sand in your eyes or experience light sensitivity or eye fatigue. These symptoms can persist and affect your daily life, making it hard to read, drive, or use a computer for long periods. In extreme cases, dry eye can even result in vision loss and cause permanent scarring.
Causes of dry eye syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can happen for many reasons. Some common causes are aging, hormonal changes, dry air, wind, dust, certain medications (like antihistamines), and underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes, Sjogren’s syndrome, or rheumatoid arthritis). Additionally, lifestyle factors like smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, and not getting enough sleep can also increase your risk of dry eye.
How to treat dry eye syndrome
Fortunately, there are many ways to treat and prevent dry eye syndrome. Some of these include using artificial tears or lubricating drops to keep the eyes moist, using warm compresses to stimulate tear production, and avoiding environments that dry out your eyes (like smoky rooms or windy areas). Your eye doctor may also recommend medications to treat inflammation or inserting small plugs into your tear ducts to prevent tears from draining away.
At Corinth Eye Clinic and Weeden Eye Clinic, we offer a wide range of treatments to target the underlying causes of this condition. One of our most popular treatment options is OCuSoft®’s Thermal 1-Touch™ digital heat therapy. This advanced treatment uses heat and gentle pressure to unclog the tiny glands in your eyelids that produce an important part of your tears. Our team of eye doctors can determine what’s causing your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Dry eye can be frustrating to live with, but it’s manageable with the right treatment. Understanding the causes and symptoms of dry eye can help you take steps to prevent it or seek professional care if necessary. At Corinth Eye Clinic and Weeden Eye Clinic, our experienced eye doctors can help you find the right treatment for your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.