Is Your Child Having Sight Problems?

Posted on: 13 October 2023

Dry eye is a common condition you might experience, but what causes it? What are its symptoms? And how does an eye doctor diagnose it? This post will answer all these questions.

Dry Eye: An Overview

Dry eye is a condition that occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or tears that possess the necessary quality to adequately lubricate them. It's not just an uncomfortable nuisance; it can affect your vision if left untreated.

What Causes Dry Eye?

Your eyes need a constant supply of tears to maintain their health and vision. Tears are a complicated mixture of water, oils, mucus, and antibodies. Any problem in this composition can lead to dry eye.

Several factors can cause dry eye. Age is a significant factor - as you get older, your tear production decreases. Dry eye can also be caused by various medical conditions, including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid issues. Even environmental conditions such as windy, smoky, or dry climates can trigger it.

Recognizing the Symptoms

The symptoms of dry eye may differ from one individual to another; however, certain common signs can be identified. You might experience a stinging or burning sensation in your eyes. Some people describe it as having sand in their eyes. Other symptoms include redness, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, or difficulty wearing contact lenses.

It's important to note that even though it's called 'dry eye,' ironically, excessive tearing can be a symptom. When your eyes are dry, they might overreact and produce a flood of tears. However, these tears are mostly water and lack the essential oils and mucus, so they don't lubricate the eyes effectively.

Diagnosis by an Eye Doctor

If you're experiencing any of the above symptoms, it's time to see an eye doctor. The diagnosis of dry eye involves understanding your health history and performing an eye examination.

The doctor might measure your tear production using a simple test called Schirmer's test. During this test, thin strips of absorbent paper are gently positioned under your lower eyelids. After a span of five minutes, the physician examines the extent to which the strip is moistened by tears.

Another test involves dyeing the surface of your eye with a special dye and observing your tears as they spread over the eye's surface. This can help the doctor identify patterns that indicate dry eye.

Your eye doctor may also examine the quality of your tears and look for any signs of eyelid infection or inflammation that could be contributing to dry eye.

Conclusion

Dry eye is not merely an inconvenience; it has the potential to impact both your vision and overall quality of life. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and diagnosis is the first step toward managing this condition effectively. If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eye, don't ignore them. Arrange a consultation with an eye doctor to get the help you need.