What Is Dry Eye? Understanding the Causes and Symptoms

Dry eye is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears produced are of poor quality, leading to discomfort, irritation, and potential vision issues. At Blue Rose Eye Care, we understand how this condition can impact your daily life, and we’re here to help you recognize and manage it.
 

What Causes Dry Eye?

Dry eye can result from a variety of factors, including environmental, medical, and lifestyle influences. Common causes include:

• Age: Tear production tends to decline with age, making dry eye more common in older adults.

• Environmental Factors: Prolonged exposure to wind, smoke, dry climates, or air conditioning can cause tears to evaporate quickly.

• Screen Time: Staring at digital screens reduces the frequency of blinking, which is essential for spreading tears evenly across the eye.

• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can contribute to dry eye.

• Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and certain blood pressure medications can decrease tear production.

• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal shifts during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking birth control can affect tear production.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): Blocked or malfunctioning oil glands in the eyelids can disrupt the tear film and lead to dry eye.
   

Recognizing the Symptoms of Dry Eye

Dry eye symptoms can range from mild irritation to severe discomfort. Common symptoms include:

• Burning or Stinging Sensation: Many people describe dry eye as feeling like there’s sand or grit in their eyes.

• Redness: Persistent redness can be a sign of inflammation caused by inadequate tear coverage.

• Blurry Vision: Insufficient tears can disrupt the clarity of your vision.

• Light Sensitivity: People with dry eye often experience discomfort in bright lighting.

• Difficulty Wearing Contact Lenses: Dryness can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable or even impossible.

• Fatigue or Heavy Eyes: A constant feeling of tiredness in the eyes can be a subtle symptom.
   

How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed?

At Blue Rose Eye Care, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess the health of your eyes and determine the root cause of your dry eye. These may include evaluating your tear production, inspecting the quality of your tear film, and examining the condition of your eyelids and oil glands.
 

Managing and Treating Dry Eye

Dry eye treatment depends on its severity and underlying cause. Some solutions include:

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter eye drops can provide temporary relief for mild cases.

• Prescription Medications: Medications can reduce inflammation or stimulate tear production.

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Limiting screen time, using a humidifier, and wearing wraparound glasses outdoors can help reduce symptoms.

• Advanced Treatments: For persistent or severe cases, treatments such as punctal plugs, or scleral lenses may be recommended.
   

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Dry eye may be common, but it doesn't have to control your daily life. By understanding the causes and symptoms, you’ve taken the first step toward finding relief. We’re committed to diagnosing and treating dry eye with personalized care and advanced solutions.
 

Contact Blue Rose Eye Care to learn more about our comprehensive dry eye solutions and take the first step toward healthier, happier eyes! Visit our office in Greenville, South Carolina, or call (864) 246-0964 to book an appointment today.