Dry eye occurs when the tear glands do not function properly, resulting in insufficient tear production or excessive evaporation of tears. This condition is common and can affect people of all ages. While it may not seem severe enough to cause blindness, it can be quite bothersome and interfere with daily life. If left untreated over time, symptoms can worsen, leading to corneal damage, which may require surgical intervention.
Symptoms to watch for
- Itchy, burning, or irritated eyes
- A sensation of having something gritty, like sand or dust, in the eyes
- Sensitivity to light and wind
- Redness of the sclera (the white part of the eye) due to inflammation
- Temporary blurriness
- Discomfort upon waking
Factors to avoid that cause dry eyes
Dry eyes can result from allergies caused by environmental factors such as dust, smoke, and pollution, as well as habits such as:
- Wearing contact lenses for more than 8 hours, especially low-quality lenses
- Staring at computer or smartphone screens for extended periods
- Taking certain medications, such as birth control pills, antihistamines, antidepressants, and some blood pressure medications
What happens if dry eyes are left untreated ?
If you ignore symptoms like itching, burning, and irritation, you risk developing eyelid inflammation. This can lead to the eyelashes scratching the eye surface and result in corneal abrasions. It is essential to consult an eye doctor to diagnose the severity of the condition and review your medication history to assess risk factors for dry eye. The ophthalmologist may check the quality and quantity of tears and examine the meibomian glands for any damage before initiating treatment.
How can it be treated ?
For mild symptoms, doctors may recommend artificial tears to increase moisture, reduce inflammation of the eye surface, and alleviate itching. Treatment may also include medications that must be supervised by an ophthalmologist. If an infection is present, the eye doctor will clean the eyelids with a special solution to eliminate bacteria or debris. Importantly, lifestyle adjustments are necessary: reduce screen time on computers or smartphones, take breaks for your eyes, and avoid triggers like strong winds, dust, and bright light by wearing sunglasses. Individuals over 40 should have regular eye exams at least once a year.
