The Many Different Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome
If you’ve noticed your eyes feeling less comfortable lately – scratchy, irritated, dry and red – it may have to do with Dry Eye Syndrome (DES). DES symptoms often worsen as the weather gets colder, the humidity drops and we are exposed to more forced air from heating vents, furnaces and fireplaces.
Did you know that there are nine different categories of Dry Eye Syndrome, as well as many different contributing factors? Here are just a few:
- Computer use
- Rate of blinking
- Completeness of blinking
- Hormonal changes (eg. Menopause)
- Contact lens wear
- Poor oil production in your tears
- Having had eye surgery, such as LASIK or cataract
- Altered eyelid muscle function
- High levels of inflammation in your tears
- Blepharitis (a buildup of debris on your eyelashes)
- Medications that cause dry eye
There are so many more treatments for DES – it’s no longer just about using artificial tears. Which treatment works best depends on the type of dry eye you have and any other contributing factors.
Dry eye is a disease process, and like other diseases, it is likely to progress if not properly managed. The consequences of untreated DES include worsening discomfort and even vision problems. During an Advanced Dry Eye workup, we will run a battery of specialized tests designed to properly diagnose your condition so you can get started on the appropriate therapy.
Take the first step towards managing your Dry Eye Syndrome. Call us now at one of our two locations to book an appointment for a consultation.