Is Your Lack of Tears leading to a Dry Eye?

Tears are not merely an outlet for emotions; they are imperative for the well-being of the eye as they bathe the eye, keep it lubricated and cleanse it off dust and other particles. They are also a shield from infections. Vital proteins, electrolytes and vitamins constitute tears.

It is the inability to produce tears from the lacrimal glands or the inflammation of the meibomian glands which is supposed to produce the lipid part of tears which results in the Dry Eye syndrome or Keratitis Sicca.

Pregnant women as well as women undergoing hormone replacement therapy may be susceptible to Dry Eye. Allergies, skin diseases around the eyes, burns, side-effects of medication can also be associated with Dry Eye. People whose work entails constantly staring at computer screens may be in danger of developing the Dry Eye too. Old age, excessive or inadequate intake of vitamins or long-term usage of contact lenses may lead to Dry Eye as well.

If you are experiencing stinging, burning, pain, redness or a gritty sensation in the eye; if you feel you are unable to cry even if you are emotional or, on the other hand, are undergoing excessive teary episodes; if you are feeling eye fatigue and heavy eyelids from normal visual activities, then visit Vista Eye Specialists to get a thorough eye exam. These symptoms may be precursors to the Dry Eye Syndrome.

If you are suffering from any of the mentioned symptoms, the ophthalmologists at Vista Eye will take an extensive health history to investigate if your Dry Eye is due to an underlying disease. If your Dry Eye is due to any medication, Vista Eye will recommend that you consult your family physician to switch your medication. Vista Eye may also suggest that you avoid wearing contact lenses.

At Vista Eye Specialists, our eye experts will either recommend the use of artificial tears, moisturizing ointment or topical drops to help increase tear production.

If your Dry Eye condition is severe, then the painless surgical procedures at Vista Eye include the insertion of small punctal or Lacrimal plugs in the corners of the eyes to limit tear drainage or close the drainage tubes in the eyes in a simple office procedure. The purpose of these plugs is to retain tears and provide respite from the discomfort of Dry Eyes. Another safe alternative at Vista Eye is eyelid surgery if your eyelid is the cause of your Dry Eye condition.

Because your vision is our primary concern, Vista Eye Specialists propose that if you suffer from Dry Eye you must consume a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The use of a humidifier indoors, as well as sunglasses outdoors will help slow tear evaporation.