If you’re like most people, at one time or another you’ve had dry, red eyes that felt as though they were itching or burning. Dry eyes are an inconvenience that usually goes away quickly with a good night’s sleep, but sometimes it takes an optometrist to identify the cause behind persistent dry eye problems. If a coy wink at your loved one causes more discomfort than pleasure, you can take some steps to remedy the problem.
Am I predisposed to dry eyes?
There is no typical age group of sufferers; besides inadequate or abnormal tear production, several other factors can cause dry eyes in people both young and old. In most cases, using saline eye drops can provide temporary relief.
- Prolonged computer use. People blink less often when they are staring at a lit screen; this can cause dryness and irritation.
- Exposure to dry air. Dry conditions or exhaust from heating and cooling systems, wind, sun, smoke, or pollution can irritate the eyes.
- Certain medications. Taking antihistamines, antidepressants, decongestants, pills, and oral contraceptives can cause dry eyes as a side effect.
- Pregnancy or menopause. Using saline eye drops can help during hormonal fluctuations.
- Diseases. Diabetes and certain autoimmune diseases, such as Sjogren's syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus, can cause the problem.
- Eye surgery.
- Aging.
It’s enough to make the smile fade from your eyes
Dry eyes can quickly become unbearable. Imagine spending the day with a grain of sand in your eye; the level of discomfort would go up by the minute! And on top of that, people who suffer from dry eyes can have an overproduction of tears. Ironic, isn’t it? It’s a natural reflex of the eye to try to lubricate and counter irritation. Dry, itchy, burning eyes that are red and painful—it’s enough to make a strong person weep.
What should I do about my dry eyes?
The thing to do is simple: visit an optometrist. Not only can this specialist detect the source of a dry eye problem, he or she can suggest an appropriate treatment. That will help you see life through rose coloured glasses!
Let's talk treatment
The optometrist might suggest you use an over-the-counter artificial tears product. These drops are sold without a prescription, but beware—some ophthalmic drops designed to alleviate red eyes should not be used for dry eyes. Ask your optometrist or pharmacist which product is best for you.
Protect your eyes!
In addition to following the treatment suggested by your optometrist, remember to protect your eyes at all times.
- Wear sunglasses when driving or outdoors
- Wear eye protecting goggles when doing any work that disturbs dust or particles
- Don’t smoke
- Use hypoallergenic cosmetics
- When using the computer, take breaks every 45 minutes and remind yourself to blink often
