Dry Eye: Symptoms & Treatment Options

Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and vision problems. Dry eye can occur for various reasons, and it is important to understand the causes and symptoms in order to seek appropriate treatment.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye can be classified into two main types: evaporative dry eye and aqueous deficient dry eye. Evaporative dry eye occurs when the tears produced by the eyes evaporate too quickly. This can be caused by various factors, such as environmental conditions, certain medications, and aging. 

Aqueous deficient dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears. This can be due to various underlying conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, hormonal changes, and certain medications.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye can cause a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity from person to person. 
 

• Dryness: A persistent sensation of dryness in the eyes, which may feel gritty or like there's a foreign object in the eye.
• Discomfort: Discomfort or irritation in the eyes, often exacerbated by activities such as reading, using digital screens, or being in dry or windy environments.
• Redness: The eyes may appear red or bloodshot due to irritation and inflammation caused by dryness.
• Excessive Tearing: Dry eye syndrome can trigger excessive tearing as the eyes attempt to compensate for the dryness.
• Sensitivity to Light: Increased sensitivity to light, known as photophobia, can be a symptom of dry eye.
• Blurry or Fluctuating Vision: Vision may become intermittently blurred, particularly during activities that require prolonged visual focus.
• Burning or Stinging Sensation: The eyes may experience a burning or stinging sensation, particularly when exposed to dry or windy conditions.
• Mucus Discharge: Some individuals with dry eye may notice a stringy mucus discharge from the eyes.
• Eye Fatigue: Prolonged periods of visual concentration may lead to eye fatigue or a feeling of heaviness in the eyelids.
• Difficulty Wearing Contact Lenses: Contact lens wearers may experience increased discomfort and difficulty wearing their lenses due to dry eye symptoms.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options for Dry Eye

While dry eye may seem like a minor inconvenience, it is important to seek treatment to prevent further complications. Untreated dry eye can lead to corneal damage, increased risk of eye infections, and even vision loss. Seeking early treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent long-term complications.

There are various treatment options available for dry eye, depending on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. Some common treatment options include artificial tears, which can provide temporary relief by lubricating the eyes. Prescription eye drops may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and promote tear production. 

In more severe cases, therapies such as TearCare, Lumecca Intense Pulse Light treatment (IPL), Zest, or Forma-I Radiofrequency treatment (RF) may be recommended to improve tear production and reduce symptoms. These treatments are non-invasive, innovative approaches that can offer long-lasting relief for individuals with dry eye symptoms, especially those related to meibomian gland dysfunction and inflammation.

Optometrists play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of dry eye. They can perform a comprehensive eye examination to assess the severity of your dry eye and determine the underlying cause. Optometrists can prescribe appropriate medications, recommend lifestyle changes, and perform therapies to manage dry eye. They can also provide guidance on preventive measures and long-term management strategies to help you live a comfortable life with managed dry eye.

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation with Iris Bright Optometry Today

While dry eye can be a chronic condition, it is possible to live a comfortable life with proper management. By understanding the causes and symptoms of dry eye and seeking early treatment from our optometrists, you can effectively manage your symptoms and prevent further complications. With the wide range of treatment options available, there is a solution that can help alleviate your dry eye symptoms and improve your overall eye health.

If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, schedule a consultation with our optometrist to get the treatment you need. We are dedicated to helping patients maintain and achieve optimal vision and eye health. Visit our office in Irvine, California, or please call (949) 585-9403 to book an appointment today.