5 Reasons You May Have Dry Eye

Dry eye is a condition that affects many Americans. It can range from being mildly irritating to wholly debilitating. Thankfully, research is constantly being advanced into the condition and treatments developed that can dramatically reduce the effects.The following looks at 5 reasons why you might suffer from dry eye and what can be done to treat it.

All About Dry Eye

• 5 reasons you might be affected
• Dry eye isn’t necessarily a constant condition

5 reasons you might be affected

Dry eye is caused by a lack of tears, or a reduced quality of the tears, to effectively lubricate and nourish the eye. It’s a common condition and can be caused by any of the following:

1. You produce tears but they’re of poor quality: Tears contain water, oil, and mucus. Each is necessary for the correct function and nourishment of the eye. The oil prevents the water from evaporating and the mucus means the tear can spread evenly over the whole surface. A problem with either of the three components can lead to dry eye.
2. You’re female: Women are more predisposed to the condition than men. This is due to hormonal changes from pregnancy, menopause, and the contraceptive pill.
3. You’re over 65 years old: We naturally produce fewer tears or tears of poorer quality as we age, hence it’s considered part of the normal aging process.
4. Certain medical conditions: If you suffer from diabetes, thyroid conditions, or rheumatoid arthritis, then dry eye commonly goes hand-in-hand with the condition. Blepharitis can also cause dry eye.
5. You take certain medications: Some antidepressants, hypertension medication, decongestants, and antihistamines can reduce the natural production of tears.

Dry Eye isn’t necessarily a constant condition

While dry eye is common and often a chronic condition, it might not be something you suffer from all the time. Many people find that they have flare-ups—perhaps in combination with exacerbation of a medical condition or if a medication is changed.  However, the reasons behind the condition remain the same: when tear production and drainage from the eye become out of balance.

How is Dry Eye Treated?

• An overview of Dry Eye treatments

An overview of Dry Eye treatments

Dry eye is diagnosed by an ophthalmologist following a comprehensive eye examination. There are a variety of treatment options, some that are used in conjunction with each other. These include:

• Adding tears to the eye using over-the-counter artificial tears. These tend to be the first line of attack and have the advantage that you can use them whenever you feel the need.
• Eye drops that stimulate the natural production of tears. You might also be advised to take an omega-3 supplement as well.
• Blocking the tear ducts to prevent them from draining too fast. This is done with removable gel or silicone plugs. Another option is for the eye surgeon to carry out a procedure that permanently closes the tear ducts.

Other methods include warm compresses, eyelid cleaners, eyelid massage, or prescription eye drops—all of which are designed to reduce any inflammation around the surface of the eye. You might find it helpful to wear wraparound sunglasses when outside to reduce wind and sun exposure, increasing air humidity within the home, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding dry environments.All of the above are designed to prevent the tears from drying out, and so alleviating the symptoms.

Don’t Suffer in Silence: Get Expert Dry Eye Treatment at the WBEC

Dry Eye treatment is one of the specialties on offer at the West Boca Eye Center. Thanks to a dedicated team of clinical professionals led by world-renowned ophthalmologist, Dr. Brent Bellotte, patients benefit from the latest cutting-edge treatments. Don’t suffer in silence. Visit https://westbocaeyecenter.com to discover more and give the friendly team a call today.