Understanding Dry Eye: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition thataffects millions of people worldwide. It occurs whenthe eyes do not produce enough tears or evaporate too quickly, leading todiscomfort and vision problems.

Read more to learn about the causes, symptoms, and various treatment options to manage dry eye effectively.

Here are the underlying factors that can cause the dry eye syndrome:

Tears are essential for lubricating the eyes and maintaining their moisture. If there is a decrease in tear production , it can lead to dry eyes. This is due to factors such as aging, hormonal changes (particularly in women during menopause), certain medications (antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants), medical conditions (Sjögren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis), or damage to the tear glands.

Tears can evaporate too quickly, leading to dryness. Environmental factors such as dry or windy climates, air conditioning, smoke, or prolonged screen time can increase tear evaporation.

The meibomian glands in the eyelids secrete oils that help slow down tear evaporation. When these glands don't function properly, it can result in an insufficient amount or poor quality of the oily layer, leading to an evaporative dry eye.

Wearing contact lenses for an extended period can contribute to dry eyes, disrupting the natural tear film and leading to increased tear evaporation.

Prolonged periods of focusing on screens or other visually demanding tasks can cause reduced blinking, leading to faster tear evaporation and dry eyes.

Certain systemic conditions, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, lupus, and Vitamin A deficiency, can be associated with dry eyes.

Common symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:

Dryness: Persistent dryness or a gritty sensation in the eyes.

Irritation: Redness, itching, burning, or stinging sensations in the eyes.

Excessive tearing: Paradoxically, the eyes may produce excessive tears in response to dryness.

Blurred vision: Vision may become temporarily blurred, especially during activities that require visual focus.

Several treatment options are available to alleviate dry eye symptoms:

Artificial tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief by supplementing natural tears.

Prescription eye drops : An ophthalmologist sometimes recommends eye drops to reduce inflammation and increase tear production.

Punctal plugs: These tiny devices are inserted into the tear ducts to block tear drainage, helping to keep the eyes moist.

Meibomian gland expression : Manual expression or using special devices can help clear blocked meibomian glands and improve tear quality.

Lifestyle changes: Making simple adjustments, such as taking regular breaks from digital screens, using a humidifier, and avoiding smoke and dry environments, can provide relief.

Nutritional supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil or flaxseed oil, may help improve the quality of tears.

During an eye exam, an eye care professional can assess the health of your eyes and identify any underlying causes or risk factors for dry eyes. They may perform tests to measure tear production, evaluate the quality of tears, examine the eyelids and other structures, and assess overall eye health.

Experience the difference with Optometric Associates of Southern Maine and take the first step towards healthier, happier eyes. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam today and discover personalized care from our expert team of optometrists. From assessing your vision to detecting early signs of eye conditions, we provide thorough evaluations and tailored solutions to ensure optimal eye health. Contact us today!