Dry Eyes

What are dry eyes?

Dry eyes are a common problem that occur when your eyes don’t make enough tears to provide adequate lubrication. Dry eyes are uncomfortable and irritating. They cause your eyes to sting and burn, which can negatively affect your quality of life.

Experts aren’t entirely sure what causes dry eyes, but several factors are thought to play a role. For example, some people’s eyes don’t make tears on their own. Other people’s eyes make a very small amount of tears. Factors like weather, pollution, and lifestyle factors, like smoking, can also play a role. 

What are the symptoms of dry eyes?

Dry eyes affect everyone differently. Telltale signs include:

• Stinging, burning, or scratching sensation
• Stringy mucus forming in or around the eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Eye redness
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses
• Difficulty driving at night

If you have dry eyes, you might also experience blurred vision or eye fatigue.

Who is at risk of experiencing dry eyes?

Dry eyes affect people of all races and genders, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Being middle-aged or older
• Undergoing laser eye surgery (LASIK)
• Tear gland damage
• Taking certain medications like antihistamines or decongestants

You’re also more likely to experience dry eyes if you’re living with a chronic medical condition like diabetes, lupus, or a thyroid disorder.

How are dry eyes diagnosed?

To diagnose dry eyes, the team at Lake Orion Vision conducts a comprehensive eye exam, measures the volume of your tears, and determines the quality of your tears. They also review your medical history and ask about your symptoms and lifestyle. 

How are dry eyes treated?

Treatment of dry eyes depends on the severity of your symptoms and their effect on your quality of life. If you have a mild or moderate case of dry eyes, you might benefit from healthy lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, drinking more water, and eating a balanced diet.

If your dry eyes don’t respond to conservative treatments, you might benefit from prescription medications to reduce eyelid or cornea inflammation. Your provider might also recommend artificial tears or tear stimulating drugs. If necessary, they can provide samples so you can choose a type of artificial tears that works best for you.

Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to ease discomfort and to improve your vision.

To further explore your treatment options for dry eyes, schedule an appointment at Lake Orion Vision. Call the office and speak with a friendly staff member, or book a consultation online today.