Dry Eyes
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
According to the American Optometric Association, “Dry eye is a condition in which a person doesn’t have enough quality tears to lubricate and nourish the eye. Tears are necessary for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision.” Dry eye is a common and often chronic problem, and can occur at ANY AGE.
The A.O.A. also states that “With each blink of the eyelids, tears spread across the front surface of the eye, known as the cornea. Tears provide lubrication, reduce the risk of eye infection, wash away foreign matter in the eye, and keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear.”
What may some of the symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome feel like?
- Burning
- Pain
- Redness of the eyes
- Watery eyes
- “Sandy” or “Gritty” feeling in the eyes
- Blurry vision and “tired eyes”
- Itchy eyes
Why QUALITY matters…
Often times, it’s not the amount of tears you make, but rather the QUALITY of the tears. There is a perfect balance to your tear film that protects your eyes. The content of your tears may contain excess oil and mucous from your eyelids. Day to day environmental exposure to the elements may deposit dust and debris into your eyes.
Combining all of these tiny elements, can lead to a complex problem for your sensitive eyes.
Combination therapy is a common medical model for controlling these irritants. Our doctor will properly detect these nuisances, and minimize their existence by targeting ALL of the possible causes of your discomfort.
If you suffer short-term or chronically from any of these symptoms, you may be suffering from Dry Eye Syndrome. Proper diagnosis, treatment, and management is the key to successfully treating this often discomforting and progressive condition.