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Dry eye

 

Question: What is the eye condition called Dry Eye?

 

Answer: Dry Eye* occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears with the proper chemical composition. It is important to note the tears that eyes normally produce are necessary for overall eye health and clear vision. Dry eye symptoms can result from the normal aging process, hormonal changes, exposure to environmental conditions and problems with regular blinking. It can also be caused by medications such as antihistamines, oral contraceptives and antidepressants. Dry eye can also be a symptom of general health problems or can result from chemical or thermal burns to the eye.

 

The common signs or symptoms include stinging, itchy, scratchy or uncomfortable eyes and sometimes can give the patient the feeling that a foreign object is in the eye. Some patients may experience increased dry eye symptoms on awakening, while others may experience the natural reflex of an overly wet eye when awaking.

 

Dry eye usually cannot be cured, but the comfort of the eye can be improved and eye health maintained through the use of artificial tears. For more severe dry eye, gels and ointments can be used, especially at bedtime. In some cases, small plugs may be inserted in the corner of the eyelids to slow drainage and the loss of natural tears. Treating any underlying general health disease or a change of diet can also be helpful in some cases.

 

If dry eye is left untreated, it can harm the eyes. Excessive dry eye can damage tissue and scar the cornea of the eye and could lead to impaired vision. Dry eye can make contact lens wear more difficult due to increased irritation and a greater chance of eye infection. In order to keep dry eye symptoms in check, the patient and the Optometrist need to work together. It is recommended that the patient follow the doctor’s instructions carefully. If the patient develops increased dryness or redness that is not relieved by the prescribed treatment, it is advised to let your Optometrist know as soon as possible.

 

A comprehensive eye health examination done by your Optometrist can determine if a patient has developed dry eye. The doctor will ask questions about general health, use of medications and the home and work environments to determine any factors which may cause dry eye symptoms. This information will help your Optometrist decide whether to perform dry eye tests. These tests use diagnostic instruments, which create a highly magnified view of the eyes.

The doctor may also use special dyes to assist in determining the quality, the amount and the distribution of tears in order to diagnose signs of dry eye.

The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends the following comprehensive eye health examination guidelines:

• Birth to 5 years: Immediately, if parents sense a problem, otherwise by age 3 and again prior to entering school.
• School age children 6-19 years: Annually or every 2 years.
• Over 19 years of age: Every 2 years or sooner if recommended by your Optometrist.

 

* All content is provided for education and information, and is no substitute for the advice of your optometrist. This information is provided courtesy of the British Columbia Association of Optometrists (B.C.A.O.). The B.C.A.O. assumes no responsibility or liability arising from any errors or omissions or from the use of any information contained herein.