What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome And How Is It Treated?
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It is normal to get dry eyes from cold weather or allergens. However, some people develop chronic dry eyes that cause pain or discomfort. This condition is referred to as dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome often leads to problems with your vision, as well as red, stinging eyes.
Dr. Ming Wang and Dr. Josh Frenkel are eye surgeons who specialize in dry eye syndrome. So what causes dry eye syndrome, and what are your treatment options in Nashville, TN? If you are interested in learning about dry eyes, visit Wang Vision Institute for a consultation. We can help you feel comfortable again.
How do you know if you have dry eyes?
So how do you know if you have dry eyes? People with dry eye syndrome usually experience a burning sensation in the eyes, redness, and sometimes blurred vision. These symptoms can worsen with prolonged exposure to computer screens or drafts from air conditioning vents. Some patients have what is called foreign body sensation, or the strong feeling that something is in their eye. No matter your symptoms, it is important to visit with an eye care professional who can diagnose and treat your condition.
What causes dry eye syndrome?
Tears are important to our vision and overall eye health. Each time we blink, a protective film containing water, oil, and mucus coats the front of our eyes. This process is designed to keep the eye moist and wash away any dust and debris. So what causes dry eye syndrome? When the eyes do not produce enough lubrication, this results in dryness and discomfort.
When any part of our tear production malfunctions, dry eye syndrome can develop. Aging, hormonal changes, and underlying health conditions can all affect tear production. At Wang Vision Institute, we can identify the cause of your symptoms and determine the best dry eye syndrome treatment moving forward.
Factors associated with dry eye syndrome
Many different factors increase your risk of dry eyes. This includes:
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Age: dry eye syndrome becomes more common later in life
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Health conditions: diabetes, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to dry eyes
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Medications: antihistamines and blood pressure medications can increase your risk of dry eye symptoms
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Computer use: when working on computer screens, we tend to blink less frequently, resulting in dry eyes
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Contact lens wear: wearing contact lenses for longer than intended can contribute to dry eyes and discomfort
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Outdoor environment: arid climates and windy conditions increase dry eye risks
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Smoking: smoking has been linked to serious eye problems, as well as chronic dry eyes
Dry eye syndrome treatment
There are many treatment opportunities for dry eyes. The most accessible option is artificial tears. Although they can provide much-needed relief, they may not address the root of your problem. The only way to determine the best dry eye syndrome treatment is to speak with a qualified eye doctor in Nashville, TN.
Wang Vision Institute may suggest LipiFlow for advanced cases of dry eye syndrome, where glands in the eyelids are warmed and massaged, promoting natural tear production. We also offer special plugs for the tear ducts to hold in the natural tears in the eye. Other options include an amniotic membrane contact lens (AMCL) or a BlephEx treatment to clear away any debris that could be causing problems.
Get a dry eye assessment
Experiencing dry eye syndrome is more than just frustrating or annoying. This condition can interfere with your daily life. So how do you know if you have dry eyes? If you think you have dry eye syndrome and want to learn more, set up an eye examination with Dr. Ming Wang or Dr. Josh Frenkel in Nashville, TN. Wang Vision Institute can diagnose your symptoms and offer advanced treatment options to meet your needs.