Dry Eye: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Thousands of people suffer from dry eyes, a condition resulting in dry, irritated, and uncomfortable eyes. It is caused by inadequate tears or excessively quick evaporation.
Causes of Dry Eye
There are many factors that can cause or contribute to dry eye, such as:
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Aging: As people get older, they tend to produce fewer tears and have lower quality of tears.
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Environmental conditions: Dry, windy, dusty, or smoky environments can increase tear evaporation and irritation.
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Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, blood pressure drugs, and birth control pills, can reduce tear production or alter tear composition.
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Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and eyelid problems, can affect the tear glands or the eyelids.
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Contact lenses: Wearing contact lenses for long periods of time or not cleaning them properly can reduce tear quality and quantity.
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Eye surgery: Some eye surgeries, such as LASIK, can temporarily or permanently affect the tear film and the cornea.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
The symptoms of dry eye can vary from person to person, but they may include:
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A burning, stinging, or scratchy sensation in the eyes
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Redness, irritation, or inflammation of the eyes
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Blurred vision or difficulty focusing
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Sensitivity to light or glare
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Eye fatigue or strain
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Excessive tearing or watery eyes
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Mucus or discharge from the eyes
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Difficulty wearing contact lenses or eye makeup
Diagnosis of Dry Eye
A doctor should be consulted if you experience any of the symptoms of dry eye. You will be examined by your eye doctor, who will also ask you about your medical history, medications, lifestyle, and environmental factors. They may also perform some tests to measure the quantity and quality of your tears, such as:
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Schirmer test: This test involves placing a small strip of filter paper under your lower eyelid and measuring how much it gets wet after five minutes.
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Tear breakup time test: This test involves placing a drop of dye in your eye and observing how long it takes for the tear film to break up under a slit lamp microscope.
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Osmolarity test: This test involves measuring the salt concentration of your tears using a device that gently touches your eye.
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Meibomian gland evaluation: This test involves examining the oil-producing glands on your eyelids and checking for any blockages or inflammation.
Treatment of Dry Eye
The treatment of dry eye depends on the severity and the underlying cause of the condition. Some of the common treatment options are:
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They are available over-the-counter or by prescription, and they come in different types and formulations. You may need to use them several times a day or as needed. Artificial tears help lubricate and soothe the eyes.
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Usually made of silicone or collagen, punctal plugs are tiny devices inserted into tear ducts to block the draining of tears and keep them on the eye surface.
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Medications such as cyclosporine, lifitegrast, and omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation, increase tear production, or improve tear quality.
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Applying warm, moist cloths to the eyes and gently massaging the eyelids to stimulate the tear glands and clear any debris or crusts can help relieve dry eye symptoms and prevent infections.
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Changes in lifestyle: These are modifications that can help prevent or reduce dry eye, such as drinking enough water, not smoking, limiting screen time, wearing sunglasses, and taking breaks from contact lenses.
Prevention of Dry Eye
While dry eye cannot be completely prevented, there are some steps that can help reduce the risk or the severity of the condition, such as:
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Having regular eye exams and following your eye doctor’s advice
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Treating any underlying medical conditions that may affect your eyes
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Managing your medications and informing your eye doctor of any changes
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Protecting your eyes from harsh environments and irritants
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Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle
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Using artificial tears or other products as recommended by your eye doctor
It is a common and treatable condition that affects anyone at any age. By understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dry eye, you can take better care of your eyes and enjoy a more comfortable and clear vision.
