Tears are a crucial component of eye function because they provide lubrication. When your eyes cannot produce enough tears, you have a condition called Bronx dry eyes. Patients should seek treatment for their dry eyes to address the underlying cause and thus eliminate inflammation and damage to the eyes.
Dry eyes can be uncomfortable because the eye components rub against each other without lubrication. It would be wise to seek treatment to prevent further complications that might hinder your eye function. The stinging and burning resulting from dry eyes usually occur when patients stare at a computer screen for too long. Other patients report dry eyes when riding a bike or in an airplane. There are various approaches to dry eyes. Many patients find that adopting certain habits like applying eye drops can provide more lubrication and thus make their eyes feel more comfortable.
What are the symptoms of dry eyes?
Physicians should provide adequate patient awareness of the symptoms of dry eyes to help patients detect their condition early and seek medical intervention before adversities occur. The most common signs and symptoms of dry eyes include:
- A scratch sensation in the eyes. Many patients describe this sensation as burning or stinging.
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Eye fatigue
- Eye redness
- Difficulty walking or driving in the dark.
- Watery eyes due to irritation.
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
When should patients seek medical intervention for their dry eyes?
It would be best to seek professional assistance before starting a treatment for your dry eyes. You may give your signs and symptoms a few days to see if they resolve on their own. However, persistent symptoms, including redness and painful eyes, indicate that you need to visit the hospital immediately.
What are the causes of dry eyes?
A comprehensive diagnosis is necessary to determine the root cause of your dry eyes. There are various reasons to explain dry eyes. The tear film comprises fatty oils, mucus, and aqueous fluid. These three layers are essential in ensuring adequate eye lubrication. The main cause of dry eyes in patients include:
Decreased tear production
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is a medical term referring to the condition where the eyes cannot produce enough aqueous fluid, which is mainly water. The main reason for developing this condition is aging, taking certain medications, corneal nerve desensitivity, and underlying medical conditions.
Increased tear evaporation
Meibomian glands are on the edge of your eyelids, and their role is to produce oil film. However, clogging might occur in these glands causing increased tear evaporation. The main causes of this concern include eye allergies, blinking less, meibomian dysfunction, and vitamin A deficiency.
Why you should seek treatment for your dry eyes
Patients should seek treatment for their dry eyes because the condition may cause complications like eye infection and damage. Contact Bainbridge Eye Care to consult with a certified physician about the available treatment options for your dry eyes to improve your quality of life by enhancing eye function.
