Top 5 Causes of Dry Eye Explained by Our Colorado Springs Optometrist

Do you experience chronic dry eye? The optometry team at Chapel Hills Vision Clinic is treating numerous eye conditions, including dry eye. This eye condition is prevalent among the U.S. population, with at least 48 percent of Americans experiencing dry eye symptoms on a regular basis. Here is what Colorado Spring people need to know about this problem.

How Dry Eye Develops

Dry eye occurs when the eyes aren't able to produce enough quality tears for lubrication. Tears play an important role in nourishing the eye. Without tears, your eyes become dry and uncomfortable to live with. Tears also function to reduce the chance of infection, washing away foreign matter from the surfaces of the eyes. As a result, the eyes are more vulnerable to infection with dry eye syndrome.

Causes of Dry Eye

There are a variety of causes that could result in the decrease of tear production. Causes include:

Age-Related Degeneration: Our eye health deteriorates with age, leading to conditions like dry eye.

Sjogren's Syndrome: This immune disorder leads to dry mouth as well as dry eye.

Diabetes: Diabetic retinopathy is an eye disease that is especially prevalent among diabetic people.

Eye Surgery: Complications can arise from surgery, particular laser eye surgery.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: This form of arthritis can lead to inflammation to the eye's sclera.

How an Eye Exam Will Help

An eye exam performed by an optometrist will help to detect signs and symptoms of a disease early on. Treating dry eye quickly will ensure good eye health and prevent future problems from developing. Once an exam confirms that dry eye is present, the eye doctor can then move onto finding a treatment plan for you.

Contact Our Optometrist for Treatment Options in Colorado Springs

Chapel Hills Vision is providing eye exams and dry eye treatment to the people of Colorado Springs. Treatment options may include eye drops, medication, or artificial tears. Interested in our treatment options? Give Chapel Hills Vision a call at (719) 599-5083 to receive treatment for your dry eyes.