What is Dry Eye?

Dry Eye is a common condition that occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to irritation, discomfort, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Tears are essential for maintaining eye health and clear vision, as they provide lubrication, reduce the risk of eye infections, and wash away particles.

Symptoms of Dry Eye

  • A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
  • Redness
  • Blurred vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Excessive tearing (a sign that your eyes are overcompensating for dryness)
  • Difficulty wearing contact lenses
  • Eye fatigue, especially after reading or using a screen for a prolonged period
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How Dry Eye Can Impact Your Life

Living with Dry Eye can make everyday activities challenging. Reading, driving, using a computer and even watching TV can become uncomfortable, reducing the quality of life for those affected. Left untreated, Dry Eye can cause inflammation and damage to the surface of your eyes.

How Common is Dry Eye? 

The NICE Clinical Knowledge Summary on Eye Disease, shows that Dry Eye is incredibly prevalent, especially in people over the age of 50. A recent study has estimated that around 1 in 4 people suffer from Dry Eye at some point in their lives, with women, especially postmenopausal women, being more susceptible.

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Causes of Dry Eye

  • Aging: The likelihood of Dry Eye increases as we age, particularly after the age of 50.
  • Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants and blood pressure medication can reduce tear production.
  • Health Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and Sjogren’s Syndrome are known to cause Dry Eye.
  • Contact Lenses: Long-term wear can increase the risk of Dry Eye. 
  • Hormonal Changes: Women are more likely to develop Dry Eye due to the hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy and menopause, or hormonal changes caused by hormonal contraceptives. 
  • Screen Time: Staring at digital devices for prolonged periods can reduce blink rate, leading to dry eyes.
  • Environment: Exposure to wind, smoke or dry climates can exacerbate the condition. 
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How is Dry Eye Treated and Managed?

Treatments for Dry Eye depend on the severity and underlying cause but generally include:

  • Artificial tears: These are the most common remedy and can provide relief for mild cases of Dry Eye.
  • Prescription eye drops: If over-the-counter options don’t work, prescription medications that help increase tear production may be recommended.
  • Lifestyle changes: Reducing screen time, using humidifiers, and avoiding smoke or wind can help manage symptoms.
  • Omega-3 supplements: Some studies suggest that consuming omega-3 fatty acids may improve tear quality and reduce inflammation.
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When to Seek Professional Help

If you’ve been using over-the-counter eye drops or other remedies for Dry Eye and haven’t found relief, it’s important to consult an eye care professional.  Persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying condition that needs attention.

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