Dry Eye Treatment
Dry eye syndrome (DES) develops when your eyes do not produce enough tears to keep the surface of the eye lubricated, leading to symptoms that vary by person. This can result from reduced tear production or increased evaporation due to a lack of oil from the eyelid glands. The effects can range from mild dryness and discomfort to pain, blurred vision, and infections.
Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease
Symptoms of dry eye syndrome can vary depending on the severity of the condition and may include:
- Dry, itchy eyes
- Burning or stinging
- Irritation
- Watery eyes
- Blurred vision
- Pain
- Foreign body sensation
Tears maintain corneal health by washing away debris and keeping the eye’s surface moist, smooth, and clear. Tears also rinse away dust and contain enzymes that protect against bacteria. Dry eye is a condition that develops when tear production is insufficient to maintain a balanced moisture level. This can cause a scratchy feeling, dryness, stinging, or the sensation of a foreign body in the eye. Dry eye can also trigger excessive tearing, which is why some people experience watery eyes.
Causes of Dry Eye Disease
Dry eyes can occur due to aging or hormonal changes, especially in women who are pregnant, taking oral contraceptives, or going through menopause. In fact, women over 50 have a 50% greater risk of dry eye disease than men do of the same age. It can also result from medications that reduce tear production, such as antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants. Environmental factors can also dry out the eyes, and DED is common in dry, dusty, and windy climates. Air conditioning, heating systems, and prolonged screen time can worsen symptoms due to reduced blinking.
Individuals who have conditions such as diabetes, blepharitis, lupus, arthritis, and thyroid disorders are more likely to develop DED. Other causes include eye surgery such as LASIK, incomplete eyelid closure, or extended contact lens use.
Diagnosis of Dry Eye Disease
Your eye doctor diagnoses dry eye disease through a comprehensive eye exam and symptom review. In some cases, your doctor may test how quickly your tears evaporate. Using a dye called fluorescein, the doctor measures how long it takes your tears to break up after a blink. This is called the tear break-up time (TBUT) test. A low TBUT indicates a lack of oil in the tears due to poor gland function. In a Schirmer test, the doctor places a strip of paper under your eyelid and asks you to close your eyes for five minutes. The doctor measures the moisture content of the strip after the test. Doctors perform Schirmer tests less often than TBUT tests.
Treatment for Dry Eyes
Treatment options depend on the cause and severity of dry eye. You can manage mild cases with artificial tears or lubricating drops. If over-the-counter drops are not effective, your doctor may prescribe drops to stimulate tear production or short-term steroids.
Your doctor may treat more severe cases with a punctal insert that releases lubricant inside the lower eyelid. Since DED is often related to eyelid inflammation known as blepharitis, your doctor may prescribe a heated hot compress mask, specialty eyelid scrubs, and sometimes an antibiotic ointment. Your doctor may use punctal plugs to reduce tear drainage and keep your eyes moist.
If you can stop or switch medications, symptoms may improve. Your doctor may recommend limiting contact lens use or switching to a type that retains moisture.
Preventing Dry Eyes
If the cause of your dry eyes is external or environmental, eliminating that cause may solve the problem and resolve the symptoms. Avoid dry or smoky environments, direct airflow to the eyes, and wear protective eyewear in dusty or windy conditions. If working on a computer or watching television, blink regularly to prevent dryness. Also, avoid rubbing your eyes as this can further irritate them. Staying hydrated by drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day can also help.
Dry eye disease won’t permanently affect your vision, but there is no reason to endure dry, itchy, and uncomfortable eyes. It’s also important to realize that this is a chronic disease that needs consistent treatment. Your doctor will work with you to create a long-term plan to keep your eyes comfortable.