Dry eye is a common problem that affects people daily and can be challenging to deal with. If you are suffering from dry eyes, you may have questions about the condition and what to do about it. At Chapel Hills Vision Clinic in Colorado Springs, we understand how frustrating dry eyes can be, and want to help you find the answers you need. We would like to answer some of the common questions that we run into about dry eyes.
What Are Dry Eyes?
Dry eyes occur when there is inadequate tear production or the tears produced are of poor quality. Tears are essential because they help lubricate and protect the eyes. When there are not enough tears, the eyes can become irritated and uncomfortable. Dry eyes can be a temporary problem or a chronic condition.
What Are the Symptoms of Dry Eyes?
Dry eye symptoms can vary from person to person, but they often include:
- Eye fatigue
- Soreness or pain in the eyes
- A burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
- Itchy eyes
- Stringy mucus in the eyes
- Red, watery eyes
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
How Are Dry Eyes Diagnosed?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms we have listed, make an appointment with one of our eye doctors. The optometrist will assess your eyes and ask questions about your symptoms during the appointment. We may also perform tests to determine the cause of your dry eyes and rule out other conditions.
What Causes Dry Eyes?
There are many possible reasons why dry eye happens. It's more common in older adults and those who have underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid problems, and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, if you currently take medication to manage conditions like blood pressure or antihistamines, that could be part of the reason why you have dry eyes. Smokers are also more susceptible to this condition, along with those individuals who've recently had LASIK surgery.
How Are Dry Eyes Treated?
Your treatment will depend on the underlying cause. We may recommend artificial tears, special eye drops, ointments, or gels to help lubricate the eyes. We may also recommend dietary supplements or omega-3 fatty acids in some cases. If another condition causes your dry eyes, treating the underlying problem can help. Rest assured, we will find a treatment plan that is right for you.
Make an Appointment with Our Optometrists in Colorado Springs, CO
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, make an appointment with our eye doctors. We look forward to helping you find the proper treatment to help manage this uncomfortable condition. Call our team today at (719) 599-5083 to book an appointment at Chapel Hills Vision Clinic.
