Do your eyes feel itchy all the time? Are you constantly rubbing them to find relief? If this sounds like you, you might have thought it was allergies or a change in the weather, but it could be an underlying condition like dry eye syndrome.
Dry eye syndrome, or dry eye disease, is a common and often chronic condition, especially in people over 50 and those who spend a lot of time staring at screens. While most people with dry eye only experience minor discomfort, severe cases can affect your quality of life and impair vision if left untreated. In this blog post, we’ll share everything you need to know about dry eye, including its symptoms, common causes, and expert tips for finding relief.
What is dry eye syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t make enough tears to keep them lubricated, or your tears are of poor quality. Common symptoms include redness, blurred vision, a burning sensation in your eyes, grittiness, excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and, of course, itchy eyes. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should schedule an eye exam with an eye doctor who specializes in dry eye treatment. They can figure out what’s causing your symptoms, whether it’s dry eye syndrome or another condition.
Causes of dry eye syndrome
A range of factors can lead to dry eye. One of the most common causes is aging. As we get older, our eyes produce fewer tears, resulting in dry eye symptoms. Other causes include:
- Certain medical conditions
- Side effects of medications
- Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, or taking birth control
- Environmental factors like smoke, dry air, and high heat
- Certain medical procedures
Treatment for dry eye
If you suffer from dry eye, there are many treatments available to help ease your symptoms and keep your eyes healthy. Depending on the severity of your condition, your eye doctor may suggest using artificial tears to add moisture to your eyes. They may also recommend lifestyle changes like using a humidifier in your home or workplace, drinking more water to stay hydrated, taking frequent breaks from screens, and using warm compresses to soothe dry, irritated eyes.
If natural remedies aren’t cutting it and you’re still experiencing discomfort, it’s important to see an optometrist for professional care. At Clarin Eye Care Center and Coral Gables Eye Care, our team of experts can diagnose dry eye and create a customized treatment plan to fit your specific needs. Let us help you see more comfortably and improve your overall eye health. Schedule an appointment today at our office in Palmetto Bay or Coral Gables.