Dry Eye is a chronic problem that has irritated patients for years. This condition is responsible for redness of the eyes, excess tearing, inability to wear contact lenses, blurred vision, and general discomfort for a fair portion of the population.
Causes of dry eye include: decreased tear production(this may be a side effect from certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, steroids, hormone treatment, and certain birth control), eye irritation(for example,living in dry climates or working outside in windy conditions), systemic conditions(diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis to name a few-also, LASIK may cause dry eye), and also from working conditions(staring at a computer screen or excessive reading reduces blink rate, which decreases tear production).
Whatever the cause, dry eye can be an irritating problem that though seems benign, can have a profound effect on one's quality of life.
Luckily, there are many treatment options available.
1)Artificial tears come in many brands and formulas. They work well and for many people are all that are needed to remedy the problem. Over-the-counter and used as needed, they may provide the necessary relief to overcome dry eye symptoms.
2)Vitamins taken orally that contain omega-3 fatty acids, marine lipid oil, and flaxseed oil have also shown to improve the quality of tear.
3)Restasis- is a prescription drop(cyclosporin) that makes your body produce more tears. It is fairly new, but has had good results so far.
4)Punctal Plugs, are silicon or collagen plugs inserted into the puncta(tear drainage canal) to stop drainage of ones own tears.
Contact your eyecare provider for more information on dry eye.
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