Posted by: Aker Kasten Eye Center in Dry Eyes on March 15, 2020
When adult men and women of Boca Raton, FL are dealing with continued problems with dry eyes, they may be struggling with a condition that is chronic in nature. While some patients experience dry eyes only in certain situations, such as during allergy season or the drier winter months, others deal with dry eyes daily. Dry eye is caused by a lack of adequate tears that improve lubrication and provide nourishment for the eyes. Tears spread across the eye with each blink to keep them moist. But a lack of tears can cause difficulties for patients that can not only be uncomfortable, but continued. Dry eye can be caused by either an inadequate amount of tears or poor quality tears.
What are the symptoms of dry eye?
In addition to the eyes feeling dry, patients may also experience:
• Irritated eyes
• Red eyes
• Scratching or burning eyes
• Feeling of a foreign object in the eye
• Excess watering
• Blurry vision
• Damage to the front surface of the eye
• Impaired vision
What can cause dry eye?
There are many reasons why a patient may experience dry eyes. Environmental conditions can cause tear evaporation, such as windy or dry climates. Some medical conditions can also cause symptoms of dry eye, as well as medications such as antihistamines. Dry eyes may also be part of the aging process, and hormonal changes for women can often cause females to be more likely to experience dry eye than men. Patients who have had surgical procedures on their eyes, or who use contact lenses regularly, may be at a higher risk of experiencing decreased tear production that can contribute to dryer eyes.
What can I do?
There are a few methods of treatment for dry eye for patients to consider. They include:
• Over-the-counter artificial tear solutions
• Prescription-grade artificial eyedrops
• Blocking the tear ducts to keep tears from draining
• Increasing tear production with drops or increased omega-3 fatty acids
• Prescription ointments
• Warm compresses
• Eyelid massage
• Elide cleaners to decrease inflammation
• Proper hydration by drinking plenty of water
• Wearing sunglasses in the outdoors to reduce drying wind and sun exposure
Contact Aker Kasten Eye Center today!
If you reside in or around the area of Boca Raton, FL and are interested in learning how to reduce problems associated with chronic dry eye, contact the office at (561) 338-7722 to schedule your appointment. Our providers are available at the practice, conveniently located at 1445 NW Boca Raton Boulevard and accept new and returning patients.