When you are suffering from dry eye, there could be a variety of reasons for it. The causes of dry eye generally come down to issues that cause you to not have enough tear film on your eyes or having poor-quality tear film. If you suspect you have dry eye, you need to see an optometrist to get proper treatment. Let’s look at a few of the questions that our eye doctors at Palmetto Eye in Rock Hill run into regarding dry eye syndrome.
What Causes Dry Eye?
Going through a hormonal change can cause dry eye. This can include menopause, pregnancy, and taking hormones. Certain medical issues like high blood pressure and diabetes can cause these changes in your eyes. Aging is a common cause, with older people's eyes no longer making enough tear film as they age. Antidepressants and certain other medications can also cause dry eye. Being out in the wind can cause it since it dries up the tear film too quickly. The dry air of winter is another cause. Spending a lot of time looking at a computer screen also factors heavily.
What Are Some Symptoms of Dry Eye?
This condition can come with several different symptoms. Having watery eyes is a symptom, as are red eyes and blurry vision. Patients may have headaches and feel eye fatigue. They may experience stringy mucus in their eyes or have a gritty feeling. Burning, itching, stinging, and soreness are all symptoms of this condition. You may experience eyelid twitching or get an abrasion on your eye from the dryness. When your eyes don't have the tear film they need to stay lubricated, the result is often pain and discomfort.
How Is Dry Eye Treated?
There are many ways that you can stay more comfortable, and you may need a prescription for eye drops that will reduce the dryness as well as the inflammation of your eyes. For less severe cases, you can use over-the-counter drops that are great for quick relief. You can also put a warm wet compress over your eyes. You can also run a humidifier in the rooms you usually frequent to put more water in the air. When you go outside be sure to wear sunglasses to keep the wind from causing dry eye.
Book Your Eye Exam at Palmetto Eye in Rock Hill, SC
To find out whether you have dry eye and how we can help, contact Palmetto Eye to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors. Call our team today at (803) 985-2020 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
