Dry Eye Syndrome
Apple Ophthalmology treats Dry Eye Syndrome. Dry Eye Syndrome, also known as Dry Eye Disease (DED), is a common condition that occurs when your tears aren't able to provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. This can be due to either insufficient tear production or poor quality of tears that evaporate too quickly. Dry eye can make it difficult to perform some activities, such as using a computer or reading for an extended period, and it can decrease tolerance to dry environments, such as the air inside an airplane.
Causes
The causes of Dry Eye Syndrome can be classified into issues with tear production and problems with tear quality:
Decreased Tear Production: Age, certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, thyroid disorders), medications (e.g., antihistamines, decongestants, hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants), and laser eye surgery may reduce tear production.
Increased Tear Evaporation: Environmental conditions (wind, dry air, smoke), screen use (reduced blinking), eyelid problems, or infrequent blinking can increase tear evaporation. Conditions like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) or meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), where glands in the eyelids that secrete oils to prevent evaporation of the tear film don't work properly, can also contribute.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome 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
Watery eyes, which is the body's response to the irritation of dry eyes
Blurred vision or eye fatigue
Risk Factors
Factors that can increase your risk of dry eyes include:
Age: Dry eye syndrome is more common in people over the age of 50.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop dry eyes due to hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, the use of oral contraceptives, and menopause.
Diet: A diet low in vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to dry eyes.
Screen Use: Spending long periods at a computer or using a smartphone can reduce blink rate, increasing tear evaporation.
Environmental Conditions: Exposure to smoke, wind, and dry climates can increase tear evaporation.
Contact Lens Use: Prolonged use of contact lenses can increase the risk of dry eyes.
Certain Medical Conditions and Medications: As mentioned above, various medical conditions and medications can contribute to dry eye symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome focuses on adding tears, conserving tears, increasing tear production, and treating the inflammation around the surface of the eyes:
Artificial Tear Drops and Ointments: The most common treatment for dry eye is over-the-counter artificial tear drops and ointments.
Prescription Eye Drops: Including those that reduce inflammation or stimulate tear production.
Tear Duct Plugs: Also known as punctal plugs, these can be inserted into the tear ducts to prevent tear drainage, keeping the eyes more moist.
Special Eyewear: Glasses that create a moisture chamber around the eye can be helpful in severe cases.
Environmental and Lifestyle Changes: Using a humidifier, taking breaks during long tasks requiring concentration, and blinking regularly can help.
Nutritional Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil or flaxseed oil, can help improve dry eye symptoms in some people.
Consulting with an eye care professional is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and to receive a treatment plan tailored to the specific causes and symptoms of your dry eye syndrome.