What causes dry eyes?Several different factors can lead to dry eyes. For instance, hormonal changes related to menopause may affect tear production. Certain medical conditions, such as some autoimmune diseases, also increase the risk of dry eyes. Environmental factors, including smoking and taking certain types of medications, such as drugs to treat depression, allergies, and high blood pressure, may also increase the risk of dry eyes. Dry eyes may develop due to dysfunction in the meibomian gland. The gland may not produce enough meibum (oil), which causes tears to evaporate too fast. Another problem might occur when the lacrimal gland does not produce enough liquid to keep the eyes moist. Symptoms of dry eyes include:
How can dry eyes impact your health?Without enough tears, you may have an increased risk of developing eye inflammation and infections, but it is not just your eyes that may be impacted. Mild dry eye symptoms may become annoying, but if dry eyes worsen, symptoms can become more than bothersome. They can possibly hurt your overall well-being. For instance, dry eyes can affect how well you sleep. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, dry eyes may worsen insomnia. If dry eye syndrome is bad enough, the pain can become similar to other types of chronic pain. It may lead to problems concentrating, decreased productivity, and poor mood. When do you need professional dry eye treatment?Some cases of dry eyes resolve with home treatment, such as artificial tears. In some cases, professional treatment may be needed. Signs you should seek professional treatment for dry eyes include the following: Symptoms continue or become worse after at-home treatment. If you tried all the basics, such as warm compresses, decreased screen time, and article tears, with little or no improvement, you should see an eye doctor. You have significant burning or stinging eyes. In some instances, the pain associated with dry eyes becomes worse. If you develop moderate to severe stinging or burning, it is time to see an eye specialist. You have difficulty doing everyday activities. If pain and discomfort from dry eyes interfere with your daily activities, you need to seek professional treatment. At-home remedies may not be enough to ease symptoms. Dry eye symptoms keep reoccurring. If you think the situation is under control but symptoms return repeatedly, you should seek help from an eye doctor. TreatmentsTreatments are available that may help ease symptoms of dry eyes when at-home remedies fail. There are prescription eye drops available that may work better than over-the-counter options.
In some cases, treatment may involve more than eye drops. For example, some procedures may help clear blocked oil glands that may interfere with how fast the tears evaporate. The bottom line is you should not just try to live with dry eyes if they adversely impact your life. Getting a comprehensive eye exam is a step in the right direction. If you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600. Comments are closed.
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