Dry  Eye  Syndrome

 

 

Dry eye syndrome is a condition in which the eyes do not produce adequate tears or that the tears produced do not have proper chemical competition.  In addition to feeling dry, the eyes feel irritated and uncomfortable.  Those suffering from dry eye syndrome may also experience feelings of grittiness, burning or stinging.  In some cases of dry eye syndrome the eyes actually produce an excessive amount of tears due to chronic inflammation on the surface of the eye.  

 

 

Dry eye syndrome has many causes.  It is often a natural part of the aging process or can result from the use of certain medications including oral contraceptives, anti-depressants and anti-histamines.  It can also be caused by autoimmune disorders including Sjogren’s disease and rheumatoid arthritis, or be a bi-product of an inflammatory condition of the eyelids known as blepharitis.   

 

 

Tears are very important to the overall health of the eye as well as your vision.  Your tears actually account for about 10% of your vision.  If the tear film is deficient or disrupted, that could lead to reduced visual acuity in addition to the uncomfortable symptoms.  

 

 

Dry eye syndrome is a very treatable condition.  Our doctors perform specific tests to determine the cause of your dry eyes then prescribe the most appropriate treatment.  If you feel you might be suffering from dry eye syndrome, ask our doctors about our complete dry eye examination.