If your vision and quality of life are impacted by dry, itchy eyes, you may be experiencing an eye condition. Dry eye syndrome is defined by a stinging or burning feeling in the eyes, and it can manifest as a mild, infrequent pain or constant discomfort with redness. If you think you have this condition, here is what you should know.

Causes

Dry eye is typically caused by environmental and lifestyle factors that inhibit tear production. Common causes include digital eye strain, long-term exposure to wind, and medications, like antihistamines and antidepressants. Additionally, people who undergo hormone replacement therapy or LASIK are at a heightened risk of the condition.

While anyone can develop dry eye syndrome, it is most common in adults over 50. People with pre-existing health issues, like lupus, arthritis, or vision disorders, may also experience this condition more frequently than others.

Prevention

Many cases can be resolved by giving your eyes a rest. Closing them and removing yourself from triggers, like cigarette smoke or wind, will promote tear production and rehydrate your eyes. To keep them lubricated, wear sunglasses on windy days and blink regularly in dry environments. Use the 20-20-20 rule if digital eye strain is your trigger. Every 20 minutes, look at a spot 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your eyes time to rest and rehydrate.

Seek help if you are experiencing this condition, as chronic dry eye can cause eye infections, damage to the eye’s surface, or constant discomfort that impacts vision. Visit Dr. Edwin Y. Endo, O.D. & Associates in Aiea, HI, to find relief from this condition. These professionals will assess your eyes and create a custom treatment plan to address your discomfort. To get more information about their vision care services, visit the website or call (808) 487-5500.