Have you ever experienced a gritty, uncomfortable sensation in your eyes that just won’t go away? Dry eyes affect millions of people and can turn everyday tasks like reading, driving, or working on a computer into a struggle. While often dismissed as a minor irritation, untreated dry eyes can lead to serious discomfort and even long-term damage to your vision.
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or when the quality of your tears isn’t sufficient to keep your eyes lubricated. It’s more than a fleeting inconvenience—it’s a condition that can significantly impact your quality of life if left unmanaged.
What Causes Dry Eyes?
Dry eyes occur when your tears can’t provide adequate lubrication. This can happen due to reduced tear production, excessive tear evaporation, or an imbalance in tear composition.
Common causes include:
- Aging: Tear production tends to decrease as we age, especially after 50.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or Sjögren’s syndrome can interfere with tear production.
- Certain Medications: Antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications are known to contribute to dry eyes.
- Environmental Factors: Wind, dry air, or smoke can accelerate tear evaporation, as can prolonged screen time without sufficient blinking.
Recognizing Dry Eye Symptoms
Dry eyes often present with noticeable discomfort and persistent irritation. Common symptoms include:
- A gritty or sandy feeling in the eyes
- Redness and irritation
- Blurry vision, particularly after long periods of focus
- Sensitivity to light
- A sensation of burning or stinging
In some cases, people with dry eye syndrome may experience excessive tearing as a reflex response to dryness. While the condition is generally not life-threatening, untreated chronic dry eye can lead to inflammation and damage to the corneal surface.
Effective Treatments for Dry Eyes
Finding relief starts with determining the root cause of your dry eyes. At Divine Eye Care in Brampton, we offer a variety of treatments tailored to your needs:
- Artificial Tears and Lubricating Eye Drops: Over-the-counter solutions can provide temporary relief, but prescription options may be needed for chronic cases.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Increasing indoor humidity, reducing screen time, or wearing wraparound sunglasses can protect against environmental triggers.
- Prescription Medications: Anti-inflammatory drops or oral medications can address underlying issues affecting tear production.
- In-Office Procedures: Advanced treatments such as tear duct plugs, thermal pulsation therapy, or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy may be recommended.
Your Dr. Mridu Chaudhry will create a customized care plan to address your symptoms and protect your long-term eye health.
Relief Awaits at Divine Eye Care
Dry eyes shouldn’t keep you from enjoying life. At Divine Eye Care in Brampton, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dry eye syndrome with the latest tools and techniques.
Don’t let discomfort hold you back. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable eyes.