Dry Eyes
Dry Eyes
Symptoms :
Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in the eyes, redness, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, eye fatigue, stringy mucus in or around the eyes.
Tests :
Eye exam, Schirmer’s test, tear osmolarity test, tear breakup time test.
Treatments :
Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops, prescription eye drops, punctal plugs, Meibomian gland expression, lifestyle changes (e.g. using a humidifier, taking breaks during computer use).
Dry eyes is a condition in which the eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears produced are of poor quality, resulting in discomfort, irritation, and inflammation of the eye’s surface. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the eyes, as they provide moisture, lubrication, and protection against infections. Dry eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, hormonal changes, medications, environmental factors (such as exposure to dry air or wind), and certain medical conditions (such as autoimmune disorders). Symptoms may include dryness, itching, burning, redness, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision. Treatment options vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition, but may include the use of artificial tears, medications, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, surgery.