Dry eye syndrome causes several uncomfortable symptoms. Fortunately, there are real and very effective treatments for this common eye problem. Let’s discuss why dry eye syndrome develops, its symptoms, and what treatments can manage it.
Who Gets Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome, or poor eye lubrication, affects countless people across the globe. In just the United States, about 16 million individuals have dry eye syndrome.
Most often, women over the age of 50 develop this problem. However, contact lens wearers and people who do not eat enough omega-3 fatty acids also may develop dry eye syndrome.
What Are the Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome has a number of uncomfortable symptoms, including:
- Burning and stinging sensations on the eye surface and eyelids
- Itchy eyes
- Scratches on the cornea, the outer layer of the eye
- Blocked tear ducts
- Eye strain and fatigue, which happens quickly with reading or close manual work
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses comfortably
- Light sensitivity
- Problems with driving at night
- Irritation (as though you have something in your eye)
Also, people with dry eye syndrome may have eye redness and some degree of blurry vision regularly. Dry eye syndrome symptoms do vary from person to person. However, in general, the symptoms are very persistent and bother people.
Never ignore the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Instead, see your eye doctor for a complete medical examination. Your healthcare provider has the diagnostic tools, experience, and treatments to help you feel better and see better. You can avoid dry eye complications, such as eye ulcers and even vision loss.
What Treatments Help with Dry Eye Syndrome?
Fortunately, there are several treatments available for managing dry eye syndrome. Some common options include:
- Regularly using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops
- Staying very well-hydrated with at least 8 glasses of water a day
- Getting at least 8 hours of sleep every night
- Taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements
- Using prescription medications to clear infection or reduce inflammation
- Undergoing minor eye surgery to close the tear duct or to create a new pathway for tears
In addition to these helpful treatments, good eye hygiene habits help relieve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. For instance, you should blink your eyes regularly while using your TV, phone, laptop, or tablet. As much as possible, avoid air conditioning or other sources of very dry air. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the friction caused by weather–high winds in particular.
Also, check with your primary care physician, pharmacist, or eye doctor about your prescription medications, vitamins, and supplements. Some drugs cause dry eye syndrome.
If dry eye syndrome is left untreated, it could damage the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. Remember, every person’s experience with dry eye syndrome may be different. What works for one person may not work for you. Never guess at the best treatment options.
With consistent care, you can manage your dry eye syndrome well. You will get real relief from its many uncomfortable symptoms and have better vision and eye health.
Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment in Miramar, FL
Miramar Eye Institute is proud to offer dry eye treatment to men and women in Miramar and the neighboring communities of South Florida. Our board-certified doctors work with you on a personal level to ensure you get the treatment you need for your condition. In addition to treating dry eyes, we are happy to offer a wide range of cutting-edge services, including LASIK and general ophthalmology.
If you have any questions about your dry eyes and how we can help, call us at (954) 437-4316. To schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified doctors, please use our convenient appointment request form.