SERVICES
DRY EYES
Dry eye is a common, yet complex disease affecting the quality of the tear film. Inflammation in the tear film is a significant cause of dry eyes in patients under 40 years of age. In patients above age 40, it is a combination of different medications and reduction in tear secretion.
Common Symptoms
There are several causes of blurry vision from diabetes. Here is a partial list of probable causes:
Light sensitivity- Tearing
- Hazy vision
- Burning sensation, especially when reading, watching TV or working on a computer or any screen.
- Foreign body sensation, including pain, dryness, eye fatigue, irritation, stinging, redness, excessive tearing, and discharge
What causes/worsens dry eyes?
Tear ducts produce fewer tears with age due to hormonal changes. Both men and women suffer from dry eye, but it is more common in women, especially when going through menopause. Certain conditions are prone to cause/worsen dry eyes:
- Allergies of the eyes
- Eyelid inflammation
- Rosacea
- Certain autoimmune conditions
- Contact lens use.
- Ocular glaucoma drops
- Age
- Cataracts
- Certain diseases like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, Thyroid disease or Lupus
- Blepharitis (when the eyelids become swollen or red)
- Entropion (when the eyelids begin to turn inward); ectropion (the eyelids start to turn outward)
- Being exposed to smoke, wind or a very dry/arid climate
- Looking at a computer screen for an extended period, reading and other activities that minimise blinking.
- Wearing contact lenses for extensive periods
- Having undergone refractive eye surgery like LASIK and Cataract surgery
- Taking specific medications, such as:
- Diuretics (commonly referred to as water pills) for the management of high blood pressure
- Beta-blockers for cardiovascular issues or elevated blood pressure
- Allergy medications (antihistamines)
- Sleeping tablets
- Anti-anxiety and antidepressant medicine
Treatment
Your ophthalmologist may advise blocking your tear ducts. This makes your natural tears remain in the eyes longer. Tiny silicone or gel plugs (referred to as punctal plugs) may be placed in the tear ducts. These plugs can be taken out later as needed. Your ophthalmologist may also advise surgery that permanently seals the tear ducts.
Your ophthalmologist might prescribe prescription eye drops or ointments to treat the condition and advise on strategies to improve the condition.
Dry Eye Prevention Tips
- Avoid excessively heated rooms, which add moisture to the air with a humidifier.
- Protect eyes from wind by wearing wrap-around glasses
- Apply artificial tear ointment or drops just before you go to bed.
