Dry, itchy eyes is a common complaint that eye doctors hear from their patients. People of all ages experience mild to severe dry eyes. Common dry eye symptoms include:
- Stinging
- Burning
- Grittiness
- Scratchy Sensation
- Sensitivity to Light
- Excessive Tearing
- Stringy Discharge
- Pain
- Redness
- Tired Eyes
- Heavy Eyelids
- Contact Lens Discomfort
- Blurred Vision
Dry eyes occur when the eye does not produce tears properly, or when the tears are not of the correct consistency and evaporate too quickly. Tears are needed to cleanse your eyes – washing out debris and dust, protecting your eyes from bacteria and lubricating your eyes. In some cases, your lacrimal glands simply cannot produce enough fluids to keep your eyes moist, but in other cases, the quality of your tears are inadequate or poor, therefore causing dry eyes. In addition, inflammation of the surface of the eye may occur along with dry eye. If left untreated, this condition can lead to pain, ulcers or scars on the cornea, and possibly some loss of vision. However, permanent loss of vision from dry eye is uncommon.
Dry eyes can also occur as a result of hormonal changes, autoimmune disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, long-term contact use, antihistamines, Parkinson’s medications, anti-depressants, birth control pills, windy, dry and dusty weather conditions, blood pressure medications and many other reasons.
Dry eyes can make it more difficult to perform some activities, such as using a computer or reading for an extended period, and it can decrease your tolerance for dry environments.
If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms, contact our doctors in Medford today. They can help you find a treatment plan to ease your discomfort. Contact Medical Eye Center at 541-779-4711 or www.medicaleyecenter.com to schedule your appointment.
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