If you’re experiencing dry, itchy and irritated eyes, a condition called dry eye could be the culprit. This occurs when there are not enough tears to properly lubricate the eye, when tears evaporate too quickly or when tear composition becomes unbalanced. These issues can have a variety of underlying causes. The good news is that dry eye is usually treatable.
Signs to Look Out For
Dry eye usually manifests with a scratching, burning, or stinging sensation in the eyes. Those who have this condition may also experience mucus production, light sensitivity, redness, the feeling of having something in the eyes, discomfort while wearing contacts, trouble driving at night, watery eyes, or blurred vision. Some people also experience reflex tearing, in which the eye is flooded with excess tears in the body’s attempt to correct the condition.
Causes of Dry Eye
Treatment for dry eye largely depends on what’s causing the condition to occur. Decreased tear production can be a natural occurrence with age, but it can also be caused by medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, or thyroid disorders. Certain medications can also be the instigator, including antihistamines, decongestants, hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants, and drugs for high blood pressure.
When tears evaporate too quickly, the culprit is often exposure to wind, cigarette smoke, or dry air. This can also occur when you often engage in activities that limit blinking, such as using a computer or driving. An imbalance in tear composition can be caused by clogged glands in the eye area, often a side effect of blepharitis, rosacea, and other skin conditions.
Treatment for Dry Eye
In some instances, the condition can be effectively treated using over-the-counter artificial tears. However, severe or chronic cases of dry eye usually require medical treatment. The treatment will vary depending on the cause of the symptoms, but could include anything from oral supplements, prescription drops for the promotion of tear production, antibiotics and/or hygiene regimens, punctal plugs, or maybe even surgery. The treatment will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of the condition and the patient’s medical history.
If you are suffering from dry eye symptoms, schedule a consultation at Live Oak Ophthalmology. We would be happy to evaluate the condition of your eyes and help you determine what solution is best for you. We have offices in Wilmington and Supply. Contact us today to book your appointment to learn more about your treatment options.