You may have noticed
the sensation that your eyes feel drier this time of year. As the heaters are
running and the humidity drops, dryness can often creep in. This dryness can be
particularly bothersome if you are a person suffering from Dry Eye Syndrome or
what is also known as Ocular Surface Disease. A person suffering from Dry Eye Syndrome may often feel like they have burning, stinging eyes, redness, and a foreign body sensation. However; the most common symptom is often a reflex tearing effect caused by dry, irritated eyes. This tearing is too watery and can often run down one’s face instead of properly hydrating the eye, thus not helping to relieve dry eye symptoms.
There are certain
systemic diseases that can exacerbate this condition. Some of the most common
systemic diseases that put you more at risk for dry eye include Diabetes, Thyroid disease, and
Rheumatoid Arthritis. In addition, lifestyle factors such as increased caffeine
consumption, increased computer use, and certain medications can lead to dry
eye if not properly managed.
Your eye doctor plays a vital role in the fight against dry eye by diagnosing and treating this condition in a number of ways. The first line of treatment is often properly managing any contributing systemic diseases such as Diabetes with your Primary Care Provider. Once this is under control your eye doctor will initiate a treatment protocol that may include over the counter eye drops and vitamin supplements, prescription eye drops and lifestyle changes.
Discussing your specific symptoms with your eye doctor can help determine the best treatment options. Some options your eye doctor may choose to treat your dry eye include:
Your eye doctor plays a vital role in the fight against dry eye by diagnosing and treating this condition in a number of ways. The first line of treatment is often properly managing any contributing systemic diseases such as Diabetes with your Primary Care Provider. Once this is under control your eye doctor will initiate a treatment protocol that may include over the counter eye drops and vitamin supplements, prescription eye drops and lifestyle changes.
Discussing your specific symptoms with your eye doctor can help determine the best treatment options. Some options your eye doctor may choose to treat your dry eye include:
1.
Over the
counter artificial tear eye drops; which can help alleviate minor dry eye
symptoms
2.
Omega 3
vitamin supplements have also been shown to improve tear film and alleviate
many symptoms.
3.
Punctal plugs;
which keep your tears from draining as quickly and thus keep the tear film on
your eyes for a longer period of time.
4.
Anti-inflammatory
medication eye drops such as Restasis can help a patient produce more tears
over time.
To find out if you suffer from dry eye syndrome please contact our office at 770-479-0222 or www.EdwardsEyeCare.com to schedule your comprehensive eye examination.
