Tears keep your eyes moisturized and free from potentially harmful substances. Insufficient quantity and poor quality of your tears can lead to dry eye syndrome. In today’s post, Opti-Care, your trusted eye center in Westminster, MD, answers the top questions about this condition.
What Causes Dry Eye Syndrome?
Your tears are made up of three layers: an outer oily layer that keeps them from evaporating too quickly; a watery middle layer that provides constant lubrication; and an inner mucus layer that helps your tears spread evenly over your eyes. Dry eye syndrome can result from a deficiency or irregularity with any of these three layers.
What Are the Main Symptoms?
You may experience a burning sensation, redness, or pain in your eyes. Discomfort wearing contact lenses or reading for an extended period of time can also be indicative of dry eye syndrome, along with blurred or distorted vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, we suggest visiting our expert eye doctors as soon as possible so we can provide prompt eye care services in Westminster, MD, to relieve your symptoms.
Who Is at Risk?
Postmenopausal women and individuals aged 65 years and above have a higher risk of developing this condition. Your environment, especially dry and humid climates, may also increase your tear evaporation rate. Personal habits like smoking and reduced eye blinking can also contribute to this disorder.
What Are the Recommended Treatments?
We will perform a comprehensive eye exam as part of your dry eye treatments in Westminster, MD. This can help us determine the root cause of your dry eyes. Depending on your specific needs, we may prescribe artificial teardrops, anti-inflammatory medications, or a different type of contact lens to ensure your comfort.
We may also recommend blocking your tear drainage holes. Incorporating rich sources of essential fatty acids such as tuna, salmon, and other deep-water fish in your diet can help as well.
If you have any further questions on dry eye syndrome, call us at (410) 600-3173. We will be ready to assist you.