Eye irritation can occur from time to time, but when redness and itching persists, you could have a condition called dry eye. Left untreated, the condition can actually impair your vision. It’s therefore essential to discuss your symptoms with a vision care professional, who can help get to the bottom of your condition. In the meantime, discover more about the relationship between vision problems and dry eye below.

A Beginner’s Guide to Dry Eye Syndrome

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye syndrome occurs when a person either has insufficient tears for lubricating and nourishing the eyes, or the tear quality is too poor to hydrate the eyes. The issue can be caused by a number of factors, including too much screen time, improper use of contact lenses, certain medications, and physical problems with eyelid closure. People with certain chronic diseases, including lupus, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis may also experience dry eyes. The condition is also common in elderly individuals. In some cases, allergies and environmental conditions can also contribute to dryness.

How Does It Affect Vision?

Tears are an essential yet often overlooked aspect of vision care. They’re needed to prevent infection, keep the eyes’ surface smooth, and carry away any foreign particles. When there aren’t enough high-quality tears, however, eyes may become irritated. People with dry eye often experience a gritty or scratchy feeling, as well as burning. Yet, it can also hinder vision, as the tear film fails to spread smoothly on the cornea for clear eyesight. Severe dryness could even compromise the eyes’ surface, leading to vision impairment.

How Is It Treated?

Blinking may temporarily minimize blurriness, as it can re-spread tears over the cornea for unobstructed vision. Yet, excessive blinking isn’t a practical long-term solution for dry eye syndrome, which is why anyone with the symptoms described above should discuss options with a vision care provider. An eye doctor may prescribe solutions such as medicated eye drops or ointments, medications to increase tear production, or artificial tears. If ocular surface inflammation has impacted vision, using a warm compress or eyelid cleaner may help. In some cases, lifestyle adjustments may also be recommended to treat the root cause of dry eye, such as reducing screen time or treating allergies. 

If you’re experiencing the symptoms of dry eye syndrome and would like to explore solutions, contact Wing Eyecare. As a trusted vision care center in Oxford, OH, this office has been providing quality services and products to locals since 1914. Explore their dry eye solutions by visiting their website; or, call (513) 523-2020 to schedule an appointment.