Are Dry Eyes Effecting Your Daily Activities?

February 18, 2016
Keratoconus

During the change of seasons, many struggle with dry eyes. This can dramatically hinder our everyday activities which can affect us considerably, for some even to the point of avoiding going outside. Dryness is one of the most common complaints reported when talking about the eyes, but most people don’t realize that Dry Eye is a serious condition. There are several different types of treatments for Dry Eye depending on what symptoms you have.

  • Blurred vision
  • Irritation
  • Red Eyes
  • Excessive tearing
  • Itchy eyes
  • Scratchy sensations
  • Excessive rubbing

Dry Eye causes irritation, redness, and sometimes excessive rubbing of the eyes. In more serious cases it can cause pain for the patient. Dry Eye is caused by either a reduction of the production of tears by your eyes or reduced production of lipids from the glands lining the eyelids. There are several reasons one can develop dry eyes such as:

  • Medication changes
  • Other Medical Conditions – Like Keratoconus, Diabetes, Cataracts, etc…
  • Reduction in the blinking of the eyes (for instance in writers)
  • Certain medical procedures
  • Environmental irritants (pollen, dust, UV exposure)

Treatments:
There are many treatments for dry eyes, with the most common being over the counter drops, such as artificial tears, and ‘Get The Red Out’ drops. *It is important to remember that ‘Get The Red Out’ drops contain vasoconstrictors which can be harmful to the eyes with long-term use. In more severe cases of dry eyes, prescribed medications -and- artificial tears may e directed by your eye doctor to give the eyes the moisture they need or promote new tear production within the eyes. In cases which the glands are not producing enough lipids, more advanced treatments such LipiFlow and/or topical testosterone cream may be required to ‘clean out’ and ‘jumpstart’ the production of lipids in the glands. A combination of all the above may be required to get relief in extreme cases.

If you are having continued problems with Dry Eye symptoms it is beneficial to contact your eye care professional for a thorough evaluation to determine the best treatment option for your specific case.

Tips To Help Relieve Your Dry Eye:

  • Increase the amount of breaks you take when staring at the computer screen or TV.
  • Use artificial tears when working on the computer or spending time outside
  • Avoid excessive eye rubbing
  • Get regular eye examinations
  • Wear protective lenses when going out to reduce UV exposure
  • Use drops and other medications as prescribed

If you have been suffering from Dry Eye, I urge you to click on the image below to hear how Moniqua found relief from her itchy, dry eyes after 3 years of suffering.