Dry Eye Symptoms
Sensation of gritty,sore, and scratchy eye is often perceived. Feeling of a foreign body can be reported.
Dry Eye Management
Approach to management of dry eye is variable and dependant on severity.Broadly speaking it can entail use of various lubricating drops of various consistencies and compositions, lid hygiene treatment protocols,use of pharmacological agents,and occlusion of drainage channels for the tears.
Dry Eye Causes
The underlying basis of dry eye again can be broad. It spans from altered tear film composition as we age where we have diminished production of mucoidal and oily tears, through to immune causes, as in patients with arthritic or auto immune inflammatory conditions.
Infection of eye lid margins can lead to a dry eye also.This area is receiving a lot of attention recently as a result of discovery of interesting microbes and mites which contribute towards the problem.
Pre-existing problem with the surface of the eye which may have resulted from scarring either by a pathogen or mechanical injury can lead to long term dry eye symptoms.One can suffer from specific eye surface conditions which will lead to dry eye presentations.
General medications you may use for other conditions can cause dry eye as a side effect.
These are some examples which are not to be viewed as self diagnostic, but are only illustrative of the scope of this problem.
We will carefully evaluate your tears ,surface of the eyes ,test the nasolacrimal drainage, and assess your medical history. Some of the multiple approaches to management of dry eye are listed. To give you a general idea what the solution may be see few examples below.
A exam will reveal the severity of the problem,and we will come up with a suitable solution for you.You can book here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have an eye exam?
It’s recommended that adults have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years, even if your vision seems fine. For children, their first eye exam should be at 6 months, followed by another at 3 years old, and then annually during school years. If you wear glasses or contact lenses or have a medical condition like diabetes, you may need more frequent exams.
What are the signs that I need glasses?
If you’re experiencing frequent headaches, eye strain, blurry vision (either up close or at a distance), difficulty seeing at night, or squinting to focus, these could be signs that you need glasses. A comprehensive eye exam will determine if corrective lenses are necessary.
What causes dry eyes, and how can I treat it?
Dry eyes can be caused by aging, certain medications, environmental factors, or prolonged screen use. Treatment options include artificial tears, prescription eye drops, and lifestyle adjustments such as taking breaks from screens. An eye doctor can recommend the best course of treatment based on the severity of your symptoms.
Are there ways to prevent common eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts?
While you can’t always prevent eye diseases, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include wearing UV-blocking sunglasses, eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, avoiding smoking, and having regular eye exams to catch any issues early. Managing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can also help protect your eye health.
