Have you been experiencing dry, itchy, irritated eyes lately? You may be suffering from dry eyes. Dry eyes can be more than just an occasional annoyance—they can significantly impact your quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with occasional discomfort or chronic dryness, it’s essential to understand the common causes and symptoms of this condition.
Common causes of dry eyes
Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for keeping the surface of your eyes healthy and for clear vision. When tear production or quality is compromised, it can lead to irritation, discomfort, and vision problems. Here are some of the most common reasons why you might experience dry eyes:
Aging
As we get older, our bodies produce fewer tears. Dry eyes are especially common in people over 50.
Medications
Some medications can reduce tear production, including antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants.
Environmental factors
Dry or windy weather, air conditioning, and heating systems can all make your tears evaporate faster. Spending a lot of time staring at screens or reading can also cause dry eyes because you blink less often.
Medical conditions
Certain health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid disorders can cause dry eyes. Problems with your eyelids, such as not being able to fully close them, can also lead to dry eyes.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes, especially in women during pregnancy, menopause, or when taking birth control pills, can affect tear production.
Contact lenses
Wearing contact lenses for long periods can lead to dry eyes because they can absorb the eye’s natural moisture.
LASIK surgery
While LASIK surgery can correct vision problems, it can also temporarily reduce tear production and cause dry eyes.
Dry eye symptoms
Knowing the symptoms of dry eyes can help you find relief sooner. Here are some common signs to look out for:
- Persistent dryness
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Foreign body sensation (feeling like there is something in your eye)
- Watery eyes (when your eyes try to compensate for the dryness)
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- A stinging or burning sensation
- A feeling of grittiness or sand in the eyes
- Tired eyes, especially after reading or using a computer
How to find relief
If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms on a regular basis, it’s important to see an eye doctor for a proper diagnosis. At Prairie Vista Eye & Optical, our dry eye specialists in Liberal offer LipiFlow® treatment as an innovative solution for addressing a leading cause of chronic dry eye: meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). This FDA-approved procedure uses thermal pulsation technology to gently unclog and stimulate the meibomian glands located in the eyelids. By improving the quality of the tear film and restoring normal oil production, LipiFlow® can provide long-lasting relief from dry eye symptoms.
Unlike traditional treatments like artificial tears that only provide temporary relief, LipiFlow® offers a more permanent solution for managing chronic dry eye. Most patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms within just a few weeks after undergoing treatment.
If you’re tired of dealing with the discomfort and frustration of chronic dry eyes, schedule an appointment at Prairie Vista Eye & Optical in Liberal, Kansas. We’ll help you find lasting relief from your symptoms and improve your overall eye health.