Dry Eye Treatment

Dry Eye Signs and Symptoms

Dryness:
A persistent sensation of dryness in the eyes is a hallmark symptom of dry eye. It may feel as if something is scratching or irritating the eyes.

Grittiness or foreign body sensation:
Many people with dry eyes describe a feeling of having sand, grit, or a foreign object in their eyes. This discomfort can be bothersome and may worsen with blinking.

Redness:
The eyes may appear bloodshot or reddened. This redness is often a result of the irritation caused by dryness.

Burning or stinging:
Dry eyes can cause a burning or stinging sensation, which may be particularly noticeable in certain environments or when performing tasks that require visual concentration, such as reading or using a computer.

Blurred vision:
Vision may become intermittently blurred, especially during prolonged periods of reading or using digital screens. Blinking or using artificial tears may temporarily improve vision clarity.

Excessive tearing:
Paradoxically, some people with dry eyes may experience excessive tearing or watery eyes. This occurs as a reflex response to the irritation caused by dryness. However, the tears produced in these instances do not effectively lubricate the eyes and do not provide long-lasting relief.

Sensitivity to light:
Dry eyes can make the eyes more sensitive to bright lights or changes in lighting conditions.

Eye fatigue:
Prolonged periods of visual tasks, such as reading or working on a computer, can lead to eye strain and fatigue in individuals with dry eyes.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be associated with other eye conditions, so it’s advisable to consult with an eye care professional for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate diagnosis. They can conduct tests to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend suitable treatment options to alleviate your discomfort.

When will you need Dry Eye Treatment: Risk Factors

Aging:
Dry eye becomes more prevalent as we age. The production of tears tends to decrease with age, and the quality of tears may also be affected, leading to dryness and discomfort.

Gender:
Women are more likely to develop dry eye compared to men, especially after menopause. Hormonal changes, such as reduced estrogen levels, can affect tear production and composition.

Environmental factors:
Exposure to dry or windy climates can increase tear evaporation and contribute to dry eye symptoms. Spending long hours in environments with air conditioning or heating systems can also dry out the eyes. Additionally, smoke, dust, and airborne irritants can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.

Digital device usage:
Prolonged screen time on computers, smartphones, and other digital devices can lead to decreased blinking and increased evaporation of tears. This can contribute to dryness and eye strain.

Medications:
Certain medications can affect tear production or quality, leading to dry eye. Examples include antihistamines, decongestants, hormone replacement therapy, antidepressants, and some blood pressure medications.

Medical conditions:
Various systemic conditions and diseases can contribute to dry eye. These include autoimmune diseases (such as Sjögren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus), diabetes, thyroid disorders, vitamin A deficiency, and certain inflammatory conditions.

Eyelid problems:
Conditions that affect the eyelids, such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid margins) or Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), can disrupt the normal production and distribution of tears, leading to dry eye.

Contact lens wear:
Contact lenses can contribute to dry eye symptoms, particularly if they are worn for extended periods or not properly cared for. Contact lens wear can disrupt the tear film and cause dryness and discomfort.

It’s important to note that these factors may contribute to the development of dry eye, but each individual’s experience may vary. If you suspect you have dry eye, it is advisable to consult with an eye care professional for a proper evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations.

How To Check My Dry Eye?

Eye examination:
The eye care professional will examine your eyes using a slit lamp microscope. They will evaluate the appearance of your eyes, the quality of your tears, and any signs of inflammation or damage to the ocular surface.

Schirmer’s test:
This test measures tear production. A small strip of filter paper is placed inside the lower eyelid, and the rate at which your tears wet the paper is measured over a specific time period. A reduced tear production may indicate dry eyes.

Tear breakup time (TBUT):
This test assesses the stability of the tear film. A small amount of dye is applied to the surface of the eye, and the time it takes for the tear film to break up or develop dry spots is assessed. A shorter TBUT indicates unstable tear film and possible dry eye.

Ocular surface staining:
Fluorescein or lissamine green dyes are used to assess the presence of damage or irregularities on the surface of the eye. These dyes highlight areas of the eye that may be affected by dryness or inflammation.

Meibomian gland evaluation:
The meibomian glands, which produce the oily layer of tears, can be evaluated to determine if there is any dysfunction contributing to dry eye. This may involve examining the glands using specialized imaging techniques or expressing the oil from the glands for evaluation.

Osmolarity testing:
This test measures the osmolarity or salt concentration of the tears. Elevated tear osmolarity is associated with dry eye. A small sample of tears is collected for analysis using a specialized device.

Inflammatory marker testing:
In some cases, an eye care professional may assess levels of inflammatory markers, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), in the tears to evaluate the presence and severity of inflammation associated with dry eye.

Based on the results of these tests and a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and medical history, the eye care professional can determine if you have dry eyes and recommend a customized treatment plan designed to meet your individual needs.

Remember, self-diagnosis based on symptoms alone may not be accurate, so it’s best to consult with a qualified eye care professional for a proper assessment.

Self-Care Tips To Manage Dry Eye

If you have mild symptoms of dry eyes, there are several simple self-care tips you can try to alleviate discomfort and manage the condition. Here are some self-care measures for dry eyes:

Use artificial tears:
Over-the-counter artificial tears can provide temporary relief by lubricating the eyes. Choose preservative-free artificial tears for frequent use, and apply them as needed throughout the day. Avoid eye drops that promise redness reduction, as these may not provide adequate lubrication.

Blink more often:
Remind yourself to blink regularly, especially when engaging in activities that require focused visual attention, such as using a computer or reading. Blinking helps spread tears across the surface of the eyes, keeping them moisturized.

Take regular breaks from digital screens:
Prolonged screen time can contribute to dry eyes. Remember the 20-20-20 rule: Take a break every 20 minutes, shift your gaze away from the screen, and focus on an object approximately 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain and encourages blinking.

Adjust your environment:
Ensure that your environment is adequately humidified, especially in dry or heated conditions. Utilize a humidifier to increase air moisture. You can also try closing vents that blow air directly towards your face or wearing wraparound glasses to shield your eyes from drafts.

Protect your eyes:
When venturing outdoors, particularly on windy days, wear sunglasses or other protective eyewear to shield your eyes from wind and debris. Wraparound sunglasses can provide additional coverage.

Maintain good eyelid hygiene:
Cleanse your eyelids and lashes regularly to prevent crusts or debris from accumulating. Use a mild, non-irritating cleanser recommended by your eye care professional, and gently wash your eyelids with a clean wash cloth or cotton pads.

Avoid rubbing your eyes:
Rubbing your eyes can worsen dryness and cause further irritation. If you feel the urge to rub your eyes, try gently blinking or using a clean tissue to dab at any discomfort instead.

Stay hydrated:
Drinking plenty of water can help maintain overall hydration, which can contribute to tear production. Stay properly hydrated throughout the day.

Consider nutritional supplements:
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like fish, flaxseed, and chia seeds, may help reduce inflammation and promote healthy tear production. Consult with your doctor about incorporating omega-3 supplements into your diet.

While these self-care tips can provide relief for mild cases of dry eyes, it’s important to consult with an eye care professional for a proper diagnosis and guidance on managing your specific condition. They can offer additional recommendations, prescribe medicated eye drops if needed, or suggest other treatment options based on the severity of your dry eye symptoms.