Dry Eye

Dry eye is a very common problem that affects millions of people. It results from an imbalance in the quality or quantity of tears bathing the eye. Dry eye is often a normal part of the aging process and occurs more frequently in women due to hormonal changes.

In addition to aging changes, other causes include ocular inflammation, eyelid abnormalities, environmental conditions, injuries to the eye, and general health problems. Sun, wind, cold, indoor heating and air conditioning, extended computer work, high altitudes, and eye surgery can be factors. People with arthritis as well as contact lens wearers are more prone to dry eye. Medications that decrease tear production such as decongestants, antihistamines, diuretics, sleeping pills, antidepressants, drugs for heart disease, ulcer remedies, chemotherapies, and beta-blockers can also contribute to dry eye.

The severity and symptoms of dry eye vary from person to person. Most people who suffer from dry eye notice irritation of the eye typically described as a foreign body, scratchy, or burning sensation. They may also experience redness, sensitivity burning sensation. They may also experience redness, sensitivity to light, contact lens intolerance, and decreased vision. Tearing is very common because the eyes are producing excess tears to keep the surface wet.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for dry eye, but symptoms can be treated.

Lubrication with over-the-counter artificial teardrops or ointments is the mainstay of dry eye therapy. For mild symptoms, these drops may be applied several times a day. In more severe cases, requiring artificial tear application more than four times per day, nonpreserved tears should be used since some individuals may develop a sensitivity to the preservatives in the generic teardrops.

There are many different teardrop preparations, which one works best for you is a matter of personal preference. Thicker drops and lubricating ointments have a longer duration of action in relieving symptoms, but they tend to blur the vision more.

If lubrication is not effective enough, small plugs can be placed in the tear drainage channels of the eyelids to allow your own tears to last longer. This is a simple, painless, reversible procedure that can be performed quickly in your ophthalmologist’s office.

Restasis eye drops, the only FDA-approved medication for dry eye, is often very effective. Steroid eye drops can also be helpful depending on the underlying cause of the dry eye condition. Other specialized measures to control symptoms include the use of a humidifier, moisture chamber goggles, or taping the lids closed at bedtime.

With the available treatments and new ones in development, you should not suffer because of dry eyes. So, if lubricating drops do not work well enough, you should consider seeing a specialist to explore some of the other options.

Blog: courtesy of our guest blogger and opthalmologist, Dr. Neil Friedman.

Photo: courtesy of patient.co.uk