Dry Eye
Dry Eye Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment at 20/20 Vision Center
Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that affects millions of people, particularly those over the age of 50. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 4.88 million individuals in this age group experience dry eye symptoms, including red, itchy, and scratchy eyes. The good news is that dry eye is treatable once the underlying causes are identified. At 20/20 Vision Center, with locations in Greenville, NC, and Washington, NC, our optometrists specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye to help you find relief and restore comfort to your eyes.
Causes of Dry Eye
Dry eye occurs when there is an issue with the basal tears, which are responsible for keeping the eyes hydrated and protected. Basal tears consist of three layers:
- Oil Layer: Prevents tears from evaporating too quickly.
- Watery Layer: Spreads tears evenly across the eye’s surface.
- Mucus Layer: Combines with the watery layer to ensure proper hydration.
When any of these layers are deficient, dry eye symptoms can develop. Common causes include:
- Medications: Many prescription and over-the-counter medications list dry eye as a side effect.
- Aging: Tear production naturally decreases with age, making dry eye more common in individuals over 50.
- Immune Disorders: Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren’s syndrome can lead to dry eye.
- Allergies: Seasonal allergies often cause dry, itchy, and irritated eyes.
- Environmental Factors: Dry, dusty, or windy conditions can exacerbate dry eye symptoms.
Symptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye can present with a variety of symptoms, including:
- Blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, or light sensitivity
- Scratchy or gritty sensations when blinking
- Redness or burning in the eyes
- Sudden discomfort when wearing contact lenses
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an appointment with our eye doctors to determine the cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Dry Eye Treatment Options
At 20/20 Vision Center, we begin with a comprehensive eye exam to assess your eye health, visual acuity, and tear production. Based on our findings, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Eye Drops, Creams, and Ointments: Used to hydrate the eyes and reduce symptoms. Drops are typically applied during the day, while creams and ointments are used at night.
- Medication Adjustments: If your current medications contribute to dry eye, we may recommend discussing alternatives with your primary care doctor.
- Tear Production Medications: Prescription medications can help increase your natural tear production.
- Tear Duct Plugs: Temporary or permanent plugs can be inserted to retain tears and alleviate symptoms.
Call Our Optometrists near You to Schedule Your Dry Eye Treatment Today
If you are struggling with dry eye symptoms, the team at 20/20 Vision Center is here to help. Call our Greenville, NC, location at (252) 754-2020 or our Washington, NC, location at (252) 501-0403 to schedule your appointment. We also provide other eye care services like contact lens exams, eyeglasses, and more!