Dry eye affects individuals of all ages. Most individuals have experienced dry eyes at some point in their life due to allergies, low humidity, and other conditions. People may be surprised to learn that some underlying health condition such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or rosacea can contribute to dry eye condition.
Those with dry eye condition have little to no tear production, or conditions cause their tears to evaporate quickly leaving the surface of the eye dry. The insufficiency in the amount of moisture in your eyes can cause the tears to be saltier which leads to inflammation and symptoms. Symptoms of dry eye include any number of followings:
- Dry Sensation
- Scratchy, Gritty Feeling
- Burning or Stinging
- Itching
- Fluctuating or Blurry Vision
- Excess Tearing
- Mucous Discharge
- Irritation From Wind or Smoke
- Redness
- Tired Eyes
- Light Sensitivity
- Contact Lens Discomfort
- Lid Infections
- Eyelids Stuck Shut
There are different forms of dry eyes, the most common is Meibomian gland dysfunction. Depending on the type of dry eye you have, there are different treatments and therapies available that our doctors can discuss with you. Some of the treatments that are used to treat dry eye include:
- Eye drops/Lubricants
- Hot compresses
- Lid Hygiene
- Prescription Eye Drops (xiidra)
- Punctal Plugs
- Moisture Chamber Goggles
- Omega 3 Supplements
- Meibomian Gland Expression
- Lipiflow
