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Free Laser Vision Screening
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Certain people do not produce enough tears to keep the eye adequately moist. This referred to as dry eye syndrome. Normal tears are produced by two different methods. The first method produces tears at a low, steady rate and is responsible for normal eye moisture and lubrication. The second produces larger quantities of tears in response to eye irritation, or when crying. What are the symptoms of dry eye?The usual symptoms include:
Excess tearing from "dry eye syndrome" sounds contradictory, but if the tears responsible for regular lubrication do not keep the eye wet enough, the eye becomes irritated. When the eye is irritated, the backup tearing system produces a large volume of tears which overwhelms the eye. These excess tears then run down your face. What is the tear film?A film of tears, spread over the eye by a blink, makes the surface of the eye smooth. Without a smooth tear film, good vision would not be possible, because the surface of the eye would be rough and irregular.
The oily layer, produced by the meibomian glands, forms the outermost surface of the
tear film. Its main purpose is to smooth the tear surface and decrease evaporation of
tears. The middle watery layer makes up most of the volume of tears. This layer, produced
by the accessory lacrimal glands, washes away foreign particles and other irritants. What causes dry eye?As we agem tear production normally decreases. Although dry eye can occur in both men and women at any age, women are most often affected. This is especially true after menopause. Dry eye can also be associated with arthritis and accompanied by a dry mouth. People with these symptoms are often said to have Sjogren's syndrome, and are also most commonly women. A wide variety of common medications - prescription and over-the-counter, can worsen dry eye syndrome by reducing baseline tear production. Be sure to tell your ophthalmologist the names of all the medications you are taking, especially if you are using:
Since these medications are often required, the dry eye condition may have to be tolerated or treated with "artificial tears." People with dry eye also much more prone to the toxic side effects of eye medications, including artificial tears. For example, the preservatives in certain eye drops and artificial tear preparations can be toxic to the eye. How is dry eye diagnosed?An ophthalmologist (medical eye doctor) is usually able to diagnose dry eye by examining the eyes. Sometimes tests that measure tear production may be necessary. One test, called the Schirmer tear test, involves placing tear-absorbing paper strips under the lower eyelids to measure the rate of tear production under various conditions. Another uses a diagnostic staining drop (fluorescein or Rose Bengal) to look for certain patterns. How is dry eye treated?Adding tearsOver-the-counter eye drops called artificial tears are similar in composition to your own tears. They lubricate the eyes and help maintain the eye's moisture. There are many brands on the market, so you may want to try several to find the one you like best. Preservative-free eye drops are available if you are sensitive to these chemicals found in regular artificial tears. If you need to use artificial tears more than every two hours, preservative-free brands are be better for you. Solid artificial tear inserts that are placed inside the lower lid on a daily basis and gradually release lubricants may be beneficial to some people. You can use the tears as often as necessary-once or twice a day or as often as several times an hour. Conserving the tearsConserving your eyes' own tears is another approach to keeping the eyes moist. Tears drain out of the eye through a small canal into the nose (that is why you sniff when you cry). Your ophthalmologist may block these canals either temporarily or permanently. The closure prevents your own tears from exiting your eye, and makes artificial tears and other eyedrops last longer. Other methodsTears evaporate like any other liquid. You can take steps to prevent evaporation. In winter, when indoor heat is on, a humidifier or a pan of water on the radiator adds moisture to dry air. Wraparound glasses may reduce the drying effect of the wind, but are illegal to wear while driving in some states. Things that may cause excessive dryness, such as an overly warm room, hair dryers or wind, should be avoided by a person with dry eye syndrome. Smoking is especially bothersome. Also, some people with dry eye syndrome complain of eye discomfort when they wake up. This symptom can be treated by using certain ointments at bedtime. Use the smallest amount of ointment necessary for comfort, since the ointment can cause your vision to blur temporarily. Dry eye due to a lack of vitamin A in the diet is rare in the United States but is more common in poorer countries, especially among children. Ointments containing vitamin A can help dry eye if it is caused by unusual conditions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or pemphigoid. Vitamin A supplements do not seem to help people with ordinary dry eye. For more information on dry eye, contact the following organizations: Sjogren's Syndrome Foundation National Sjogren's Syndrome Association |
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