Dry Eye
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes chronically do not produce enough
moisture and lubrication along the surface of the eye. The medical term for dry
eyes, keratitis sicca, refers to a decrease in the production of tears.
Symptoms of dry eyes include constant irritation, such as dryness,
scratching and burning. Another symptom of dry eyes is “foreign body
sensation,” the feeling that something is irritating the eye. And
finally, watery eyes, as a result of an over stimulated production of
the water component of your eye.
Dry eyes are caused by either a malfunction in the lacrimal gland
that does not produce enough tears, or the tears themselves evaporate too
quickly. Dry eyes are a result of a multitude of factors. Some include:
- The aging process, especially during menopause
- As a side effect of certain medications (i.e. antihistamines,
antidepressants, birth control pills)
- As a result of a dry, dusty or windy climate
- Air conditioning or a heating system
- Long-term contact wear
Dry eye syndrome is a chronic condition that may not be completely
curable, but the associated irritation can be managed. Some solutions
include: prescribed artificial tears (lubricating eye drops), punctual
plugs that help keep the eye dry by preventing tears from draining out
too quickly, or sunglasses that keep out wind, pollen and dust with an
air tight seal.
Tears cleanse the eye, flushing out dust and debris and are essential
for healthy eyes. If you suspect you have dry eye syndrome and you live
in or around Boston, feel free to
contact our office to schedule an eye exam with one of our doctors
today. We will gladly answer any of your questions and provide you with
the best treatment options available to you.
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