Dry Eyes- What Are the Various Causes and Treatment?

Dry eyes are a common problem that affects people in adulthood and is currently one of the top reasons for wearing glasses or contact lenses. Dry eyes occur when the eye does not have sufficient lubrication due to inadequate or poor-quality tears. Patients begin to feel itchy, and the eyes turn red and blurry. Dr. Stephen M. Wolchok is a dry eye specialist who deals with this problem and other eye-related issues. Book an appointment today for modern and effective treatment.

What causes dry eyes?

Aging: The risks of developing dry eyes increase with age. It is more common in people above the age of 50, usually because the amount of tears produced also decreases as we age. Doctors can treat this condition by using artificial tears for lubrication.

Using computers: Too many hours in front of a computer can be harmful to your eyes and cause you to experience tension headaches. Doctors recommend that people who work with computers should blink more often to reduce tear evaporation and lubricate their eyes. Alte atively, they can cope with this condition by using artificial tears.

Medication: Mucus is one of the main components of tears. Therefore, medications that have a side effect of reducing mucus production could also lead to a dry eye problem. Such medications include diuretics, antidepressants, and antihistamines. You should discuss with your doctor to reduce or change medications if they are affecting your eyes. The specialist may also advise you to use artificial tears when it is essential to continue with the medications.

Menopause: The hormonal changes that occur during menopause could also affect the production of tears and cause dry eyes and irritation. Additionally, women may experience these problems during pregnancy or when using certain birth control methods. Doctors use various hormone replacement therapies to treat this condition.

Vitamin deficiency: Vitamin A is essential in the body to promote eye health. It is sourced from spinach, carrots, eggs, and peppers. Lack of these nutrients in the diet could cause various eye problems, including vision impairments and dry eye. The specialist will advise you accordingly if vitamin deficiency is the cause of your problems.

How are dry eyes treated?

Artificial tears: Artificial drops are one of the most common and accessible treatment options. The doctor will advise that you continually use tear drops if you are experiencing chronic dry eye.

Lipiflow: This treatment involves using medical equipment that applies pressure and heat to unblock glands in your eyelids. This helps to prevent tear evaporation and keep eyes moist.

Punctal occlusion: This form of treatment involves temporarily closing the punctum duct responsible for draining tears from the eye. Depending on the results, the specialist will decide on whether to block the gland permanently.

Testosterone cream: Using testosterone creams will help treat dry eyes caused by a lack of testosterone in eyelids.

Specialists at Wolchok Eye Associates, PA, perform a full exam on your eyes to determine the source of your problem. Once they establish the cause of your dry eye, they proceed to formulate a personalized treatment option. Book an appointment today online for customized care.