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Your eyes may feel itchy and uncomfortable after looking at a computer for too long, being in an airplane, or sitting in an air-conditioned room. All of this is due to a condition known as dry eyes. While this is usually temporary, chronic dry eyes may require a trip to the eye doctor for a prescription. If you’re unfamiliar with this issue, here’s a guide to all you need to know about it. 

What Are Dry Eyes?

This is a condition in which your eyes do not have sufficient tears for lubrication. Your eyes may not produce enough of them, or they may be evaporating too quickly because of the environment.

Dry eyes look red and irritated, and you may experience itching, burning, stinging, or a sensation that there is something in your eye. Often, your eyes will produce more tears to compensate for the dryness, leading to watering or buildup around the area. Dry eyes make it difficult to wear contact lenses, and you may experience blurred vision or difficulty seeing at night. 

Why Do Dry Eyes Occur? 

Dry eyes are caused by a lack of tears, which can occur for various reasons. Tear evaporation is usually temporary and caused by exposure to dry air or smoke, using a computer too long, or environmental pollution. Inadequate tear production, on the other hand, is associated with chronic dry eyes and can be a result of age, medical conditions like diabetes or lupus, medication, or damage to the tear ducts or glands from injury or illness.

If you have dry eyes, your eye doctor may also evaluate your tear composition. Tears have three layers (oil, water, and mucus) and an imbalance in any one of these can cause dry eyes. 

How Are They Treated? 

Eye DoctorTreatment for dry eyes depends on the cause, but the most common method is to use artificial tears to lubricate the eyes. Although over-the-counter eyedrops can alleviate symptoms of temporary dry eyes, chronic conditions typically require the regular use of prescription artificial tears. Your eye doctor may also recommend some lifestyle changes, such as avoiding smoke, taking more frequent breaks when reading or working on a computer, and using a humidifier to add moisture to the air. 

 

If you have dry eyes, visit the eye doctors at Medical Eye Associates, S.C. to determine the cause and find relief. They have been serving patients from four convenient locations in Waukesha, Mukwonago, Oconomowoc, and Wauwatosa, WI, for over 80 years. They provide comprehensive vision care, including everything from glasses and contacts to LASIK® surgery. Learn more about dry eyes on their website or call (262) 547-3352 to schedule an appointment.

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