What Causes Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome?
When the eyes do not produce enough tears to supply necessary nourishment and lubrication or produce tears that do not have the proper chemical composition, Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome occurs. The tears your eyes produce are essential for overall eye health and clear vision. Problems or imbalance with the oil, mucus or water layer of the tear film can cause drying eyes. Here are some common causes
- Natural aging process
- Changes in hormones
- Exposure to certain environmental conditions
- Decreased blinking leading to eyes drying out
- Side effects of medication
What Are The Symptoms of dry eye syndrome?
- Stinging or burning sensation in the eye
- Intermittent blurry vision
- Trouble focusing
- Pain and redness of the eye
- Feeling as if something is in the eye
- Heavy eyelids and itchy eyes
- Eye fatigue
If you’re experiencing any Dry Eye Syndrome symptoms, contact us for treatment options.
Harmful Effects of Dry Eye
Left untreated dry eye will leave you susceptible to scarring of the sensitive tissues of your eye
Blurred vision due to drying of eyes
Light sensitivity
Dry eye makes wearing contact lenses more difficult, increasing the chances of getting an eye infection
Treatment of Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome is essential to your visual quality and health.
Dry Eye Diagnosis
Dry eye syndrome can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam at Market Mall. If your optometrist suspects you have Dry Eye, a diagnosis will begin with the following questions:
- General health
- Medication intake
- Living environment
- Work environment
Using this information your optometrists at Market Mall will determine whether further Dry eye testing is necessary. Other forms of dry eye testing include:
- Examination of your eyelids for inflammation, clogged oil glands and color of oil excretions.
- Examination of the cornea using a Slit Lamp and special dyes to evaluate the amount, quality, and distribution of tears.
Dry Eye Treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Dry Eye Syndrome. There are a variety of treatment options to maintain your eye health and allow you to see comfortably. Your optometrists at Market Mall are an excellent source of advice for the best dry eye treatment for your lifestyle. Here are some of your options:
- Eye drops – ask your Calgary optometrist which ones are best for you
- Gels and ointments
- Warm compresses used to warm the glands in the eyelids to help clear up blockages
- Prescription medication that helps your body produce more tears
- Punctual plugs – tiny, bio-friendly plugs inserted into the corner of eyelids to help retain tears