Dry Eyes

What is Dry Eye?

Dry Eye occurs when the eye does not produce enough tears. It also occurs when the eye does not produce the correct type of tears or tear film.

What are the symptoms of Dry Eye?

• Stinging or burning feeling in the eye
• Gritty feeling in the eye
• Strings of mucus in or around the eye
• Red or irritated eyes
• Pain when wearing contact lenses
• Excessive tearing in eyes

What causes Dry Eye?

• Fewer tears are produced as you age, due to hormonal changes
• Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, thyroid disease, and lupus
• Blepharitis
• Entropion or Ectropion
• Being in smoke, wind, or a dry climate
• Looking at a computer screen for too long
• Using contact lenses for a long period of time
• Having refractive surgery
• Taking certain medications, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, allergy and cold medicines, sleeping pills, anxiety and antidepressant medications, heartburn medications

How is Dry Eye treated?

Dry Eye can be treated in multiple ways depending on the specific person. Artificial tears are generally the first form of treatment. An ophthalmologist may suggest saving the tears by inserting punctual plugs into the tear ducts which will make the natural tears stay in the eyes longer. Sometimes eye drop medication is prescribed to help your eyes make more of their own tears.