Dry eye is a condition that can be annoying and negatively impact your lifestyle. Severe cases can have catastrophic effects. It can cause a number of irritating physical symptoms, along with the potential for vision loss. This condition is often misunderstood. So let’s take a look at what it is and the benefits of dry eye treatment.
About Dry Eye
Dry eye simply refers to the lack of natural tear production in the eye. Without sufficient tears, your eye cannot remain adequately lubricated. The condition of dry eye can occur to anyone at any stage of life, but it is seen more frequently as we age.
Tears are produced by glands in and surrounding the eye. They’re made up of a mixture of proteins, water, oils and mucus with the purpose of preventing irritants from depositing on the surface of the eye and maintaining a wet, smooth surface. Any breakdown in the production or makeup of tears can cause the eye to become persistently dry. Irritation and inflammation of the cornea can result.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
There are many symptoms associated with dry eye, ranging from mild to severe. You may feel like there is something in your eye or notice a scratching sensation. Dry, red and itchy eyes are quite common with the condition. There may be some pain or discomfort, along with some discharge. In addition, the feeling of dryness can lead to excessive watering. If your eyes feel tired or your eyelids feel heavy, dry eye could be to blame. In some cases, blurred vision is possible.
Benefits of Dry Eye Treatment
Dry eye treatment is important because it can help you to have a better quality of life. While some symptoms are merely irritating, others can be quite severe. You want to maintain eye moisture in order to prevent possible cornea damage, which can lead to irritation and possible vision loss. Seeing an eye health professional can tell you to what extent your dry eye has progressed and provide the recommended treatment for your condition. Diagnosis and prevention are important in order to hold off further damage and vision impairment.
Treatment options range from self-care to prescription. Some steps you can take at home are to add a humidifier to your environment and limiting your time at the computer. Artificial tears, medicated eye drops and steroid treatments are also considerations, depending on the severity of your issue.
Dry eye treatment is the first step to obtaining relief. At the Wichita Vision Institute, we can help diagnose and treat your dry eye. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.