Have you ever experienced dry, itchy eyes when waking up or outdoors? This issue, called dry eye, is commonly temporary for most people. However, it can become a constant problem for others, in which case an eye exam is needed. Your eyes need to stay hydrated, and while dry eye may seem like a minor issue, it may lead to vision problems. Below, you’ll find a complete guide to understanding and addressing this condition.

Everything You Need to Know About Dry Eye

What Is It?

Dry eye is an ocular issue where the body doesn’t produce enough tears throughout the day. Whereas they naturally spread across the eye when you blink, when you don’t produce enough, your eye dries out. It can also be caused when tears evaporate too quickly due to environmental factors, such as extreme heat. Chronic dry eye can develop and is a progressive condition that will lead to constant inflammation.

What Are the Causes?

Dry eye may be a side effect of hormone replacement therapy or autoimmune diseases, and it may develop following LASIK® surgery. Additionally, some patients develop issues after wearing contact lenses too long or staring at screens for too long. Temporary dry eye can be caused by medication, allergies, and environmental factors like wind. Symptoms include stinging and burning sensations, general pain, and redness spread across the eye. While it won’t permanently damage your vision, inflammation can impact your ability to see during flare-ups. While rare, dry eye syndrome may also lead to eye infections.

How Is It Treated?

There are many treatment options you can explore. During an eye exam, your optometrist may consider artificial tears to keep your eyes moist or anti-inflammatory medication that also stimulates tear production. You can also make dietary changes by eating foods like salmon that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and getting plenty of protein from lean meats. In the most severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

If you’re dealing with dry eye or are overdue for an eye exam, turn to the team at Eye Care Locale. Since 2016, they have served Dayton, OH. Optometrist Dr. Barry Gridley has practiced since 1974 and can address a variety of issues, including dry eye, vision correction, glaucoma, and other eye diseases. They offer a wide selection of glasses and contact lenses as well, and you can explore the practice further online. To schedule an eye exam, call (937) 222-2452 today.