Dry eye disease can disrupt daily life, but with the right approach, it’s possible to manage and even prevent this condition.
As an ophthalmologist, I’ve had the opportunity to help many patients navigate the challenges of dry eye disease. I’ve seen how dry eye disease can disrupt daily life, making simple activities like reading or using a computer quite uncomfortable. However, with the right approach, it’s possible to manage and even prevent this condition. It’s crucial to stay informed, seek regular eye care, and adopt a proactive eye health routine.
What is dry eye disease?
Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly. This lack of proper lubrication can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Many patients describe a scratchy or burning sensation, akin to having sand in their eyes. Others experience redness, blurred vision, and increased sensitivity to light. Interestingly, some people with dry eyes find their eyes watering excessively. This happens because the eyes are trying to compensate for the dryness, but these tears are often of poor quality and do not provide adequate lubrication.
Dry eye disease can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the risk. Age is a significant factor; tear production tends to decrease as we get older. Women are particularly susceptible, especially during menopause, due to hormonal changes. Other risk factors include autoimmune diseases like Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus, as well as medications such as antihistamines and antidepressants. Environmental conditions, such as exposure to smoke, wind, and dry climates, can also exacerbate symptoms. Long hours spent staring at screens can reduce blink rates, further contributing to dryness.
How do you treat dry eye?
Treating dry eye disease involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medical interventions tailored to the underlying cause. Over-the-counter artificial tears are often the first line of defense, providing immediate relief by adding moisture. For more persistent or severe cases, prescription medications such as cyclosporine (Restasis) and lifitegrast (Xiidra) can help reduce inflammation and increase tear production.
Making simple changes, such as using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, taking regular breaks from screens to rest your eyes, and wearing wraparound sunglasses to protect from wind and sunlight, can make a significant difference. In some cases, punctal plugs, which are tiny devices inserted into the tear ducts to reduce tear drainage, may be recommended. Surgery is reserved for cases where eyelid issues significantly contribute to dry eye symptoms.
How do you prevent dry eye?
Preventing dry eye disease is all about adopting good habits and making lifestyle changes. Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and nuts, and antioxidants from colorful fruits and vegetables supports eye health and helps maintain tear production.
Avoiding smoking, which can exacerbate dry eye symptoms, is crucial. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps maintain tear production. Practicing proper eyelid hygiene, such as regularly cleaning your eyelids with soap and water and avoiding makeup application on the inner part of the eyelid, can prevent irritation and infection.
An eye care professional can help manage dry eye disease. Regular eye exams are the best way to detect problems early and to maintain good vision.
