More than 20 million U.S. adults have been diagnosed with dry eye and tens of millions more report symptoms. Yet this growing “lifestyle disease” remains poorly understood, and effective solutions are still elusive.
The hallmark of dry eye from the patient’s perspective is persistent eye discomfort and pain. While dry eye can cause blurry vision, and may also affect the appearance of the eyes and eyelids, eye discomfort (also called Ocular Surface Pain) is why dry eye is the most common reason for a visit to the eye doctor.
Twenty years ago, there was a single drug and a handful of over-the-counter drops for dry eye. Today, there are 7 FDA-approved drugs and endless options, from home care remedies and nutritional supplements to over-the-counter eye drops, prescription eye drops, medical devices, and new medical procedures. Yet not everyone is finding something that works.
Are you self-treating with OTC eye drops?
According to MarketScope, 25 million Americans use over-the-counter (OTC) eye drops to relieve minor eye symptoms, often with no guidance from an eye doctor. Unfortunately, self-treating for too long can delay diagnosis and can even put you in harm’s way.
In 2023, 60 different OTC eye drops were recalled for safety reasons. Shockingly, four deaths and 18 cases of vision or eyeball loss were attributed to contaminated eye drops. Dry Eye Foundation, a nonprofit patient organization in Poulsbo, WA, offers eye drop safety information at eyedropsafety.org and encourages anyone who regularly uses eye drops to seek an eye exam from a qualified professional.
Is dry eye interfering with your life?
Dry eye can take a serious toll on quality of life, even without the risk of permanent vision loss. Eye discomfort that starts as a minor annoyance may worsen until it’s a constant distraction. Severe symptoms can be painful and limit how long you can read, use screens, drive, or spend time outdoors — disrupting work, hobbies, and social activities more and more.
This scenario is an all-too-familiar story at the Dry Eye Foundation (DEF), which is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with dry eye. DEF provides resources, information, and community support and works to raise awareness about this chronically misunderstood disorder.
Are you looking for help?
When dry eye escalates, people often find themselves struggling with many issues at once. DEF hosts forums, social media groups, Zoom groups, and a resource line to support people through endless questions and concerns that arise, mostly about navigating medical decisions, paying for treatment, and finding practical coping strategies. Stress from worsening symptoms and lack of effective treatment often leads to depression and anxiety. This is why DEF focuses on community support.
If you or someone you know is struggling because of dry eye, please contact DEF at 800-484-0244 or [email protected].
