Dry Eyes – The 411

If you struggle with the condition known as “dry eyes” (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) you are not alone. Dry eyes is very common, with more than 3 million cases diagnosed each year. It most often affects older adults but can be a problem for people and kids of all ages. Sometimes dry eyes can be as simple as a foreign object that can be easily removed or allergies that can be remedied with medication. More commonly, however, the underlying issue is with the eye itself.

Our eyes need lubrication to maintain proper health as well as visual acuity. It’s common for people to experience some form of dry eye as they age, as the tear glands that supply the lubrication for the eye produce less tears as the glands become older. Sometimes the lack of lubrication is a side effect of medication.

With inadequate tear production, the tear glands simply do not produce enough tears to keep the eyes moist.

Tears consist of oil, mucus, and water. When the tear glands produce tears that are deficient or in surplus of any of these components, dry eye can be the result. The best way to treat this type of dry eye is with specialized eye drops that can mitigate the lack or surplus of the components of the eyes’ natural lubricant, their tears.

There may also be environmental factors to consider. People who are exposed to dry or windy climates may find that their tear glands are not able to keep up with their eyes’ demands for proper lubrication. The good news is, this particular cause of dry eye can be remedied with the use of over-the-counter eye drops. In some cases, however, it may be necessary to resort to prescription eye drops to stimulate increased tear production.

Don’t continue to suffer with dry eye. Call to schedule an appointment, today, and let us help you treat your symptoms: (800) 676-5050.