Manjula is working in a software firm in Mumbai and she is a hardworking employee. Since she has to sit on computers for long hours, she has to strain her eyes.
She also faced some symptoms that made her visit a nearby eye clinic. Eye doctors who attended her told her she is suffering from dry eyes and needed immediate treatment. Moreover, they recommended some medications and advised her not to put more pressure on the eyes.
What is a Dry Eye?
A dry eye is a condition that occurs when the tear glands are not able to produce enough tears or due to quick evaporation of tears. In some cases, dry eyes can lead to many tears which are called reflex tearing.
The condition is more common in women than men that require immediate medical attention. Those who want to reduce the symptoms of dry eyes should know the causes in detail that will help implement preventive measures accordingly.
Common Dry Eye Causes
- Vitamin A Deficiency
Vitamin A deficiency is one of the major factors that can cause dry eye conditions. One should take Vitamin A rich foods which will help keep eyes in good condition. Not only that, they make feasible methods to overcome eye problems effectively. A person can also take vitamin A supplements which give ways to gain more advantages.
- Menopause
Menopause in women can lead to dry eyes because hormones can restrict the production of tears to a large extent. Some women may experience the symptoms of tear eyes during pregnancy.
- Environmental Conditions
Environmental pollution may cause dry eyes and one should protect his/her eyes from it to reduce risks. Cold climate and exposure to high winds can lead to evaporation of tears which result in chronic dryness. Using lubricating eye drops and wearing sunglasses can help protect eyes from heavy colds and wind.
- Mild Dehydration
Mild dehydration can increase dry eye conditions in a person that results in various symptoms. Drinking plenty of water and fluids will help improve eye health. Moreover, they show methods to promote wellness by addressing the exact needs.
- Low Humidity
Low humidity is another factor that can increase dry eye symptoms. Therefore, it is wise to maintain a better environment in the home and office to minimize health hazards. Using a humidifier gives ways to moisten the air to prevent tear evaporation.
- Allergies
Allergy can trigger dry eyes that can lead to itchiness and other symptoms. Anyone who wants to take medications for the problem should consult a doctor that will help improve the condition.
- Aging
Aging is one of the factors that can induce dry eyes in a person. The condition can affect people who are above the age of 40.
- Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders are dry eye causes that can induce the symptoms. Various types of medications are available for reducing them with optimal results. However, one should take them only after consulting with a physician.
- Contact Lenses
Wearing contact lenses can increase the symptoms of eye dryness. This is because using them for a long term can obstruct oxygen to the cornea.
- Smoke
Smoke or exposure to smoke can influence dryness of eyes and one should avoid the practice and stay in an environment that is free from smoke.
What are the Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eyes can cause several symptoms and one should know more about them in detail that will help choose the right treatment. Some of them include sensitivity to light, redness of eyes, difficulty wearing contact lenses, and watery eyes. Blurred vision, sensitivity to eyes, and eye pains are other dry eye syndrome symptoms that can influence a person. Besides that, they need proper medical attention to reduce them with the desired outcomes.
Treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome
- Eye Drops
An eye specialist will recommend drops for dry eye symptoms and blurred vision after evaluating the condition. If the OTC drops don’t work well for a patient, then a doctor will prescribe powerful eye drops to restore the condition.
- Artificial Tears
Artificial tears offer solutions for dry eye problems by increasing moisture levels. They allow a patient to improve his/her eye conditions with desired outcomes. At the same time, one should take them only after consulting with a physician.
- Lacrimal Plugs
A lacrimal plug is the latest treatment for dry eye syndrome because it plays a key role in blocking the drainage holes in the corners of the eyes. It is a painless and reversible procedure that works well for a patient.
- Medications
In some cases, an eye doctor will suggest medications for dry eye problems that will help increase the tears. The medications also provide ways to protect the cornea from damage and other problems. At the same time, they need proper research which gives ways to lead a trouble-free life.
- Surgery
The severe dry eye symptoms need surgery treatment enabling a person to gain more benefits. However, it is important to know the pros and cons before undergoing the procedure.
Also Read: List of Vitamin A for Eyesight and Eye Health
How to Prevent Dry Eye Symptoms?
Anyone who wants to prevent dry eye symptoms should follow a healthy lifestyle and stay away from bad habits. They should also limit their screen time every day by not sitting on a computer for more hours. One should know how to wear and use contact lenses properly that will help overcome complications. He/she should consider checking his/her eye health with a doctor which gives ways to detect the symptoms in advance.
The Bottom Line
Dry eyes can lead to several symptoms when they are not handled properly. A person should know more about them in detail that will help implement the preventive measures with ease. The treatments may vary from one person to another person depending on the symptoms and other things. Since several factors may influence dry eyes, it is important to understand them with attention. Besides that, one can even reduce his/her problems to experience peace of mind.
