You might hear the term “dry eye” and think it just means your eyes feel a little uncomfortable. But at Karns Vision Center, our team knows the experience is often more complex and more annoying than it seems.
Dry eye can feel like a gritty, burning, or stinging sensation that can disrupt your day, but professional treatment is available to get you more comfortable.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eye
Dry eye symptoms often affect both eyes and can range from mildly annoying to disruptive. Here are some signs of dry eye to look out for:
- A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation.
- Feeling like there is something gritty, like sand, in your eye.
- Sensitivity to light or difficulty with night driving.
- Blurry vision or eye fatigue, especially after reading or screen time.
- Watery eyes, which is your body’s response to irritation.
- Issues with putting in, taking out, or wearing contact lenses all day.
Causes of Dry Eye
The discomfort of dry eye can stem from a problem with your tear film, the thin layer of fluid that protects the surface of your eye. There are 2 main issues that can disrupt it and cause the symptoms discussed.
You Don’t Make Enough Tears
Sometimes, your eyes simply do not produce a large enough volume of tears to stay moist. Factors like age, certain health conditions, or some medications can reduce tear production.
Your Tears Aren’t of Great Quality
Healthy tears have a specific balance of water, oil, and mucus. If 1 of these components is off, your tears can evaporate too quickly. Blocked oil glands lining your eyelids are a common cause of this imbalance, but treatments such as OptiLight by Lumenis can help.
Other Potential Causes of Dry Eye
Some other eye conditions share symptoms with dry eye, which can cause confusion. It may help to know what else could be causing your eye irritation.
Eye Allergies
Allergies often cause itchy, red, and watery eyes, much like dry eye. The main difference is that allergies are a reaction to an irritant, like pollen or dust, and usually come with other symptoms like sneezing.
Digital Eye Strain
Staring at screens for hours can lead to tired, blurry, and dry-feeling eyes because you tend to blink less often. While this can contribute to dry eye symptoms, it can also be a separate issue, like digital eye strain. For long-term issues, lenses like Neurolens may be a good option to explore with an optometrist.
Find Relief at Home
You can take a few steps on your own to help soothe your eyes and reduce dryness. Simple lifestyle adjustments can make a difference in your day-to-day comfort.
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air in your home or office can help slow down tear evaporation.
- Take screen breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps your eyes relax and blink more.
- Stay hydrated and adjust your diet: Drinking plenty of water can help your whole body, including your eyes. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, may also support eye health.
- Try over-the-counter drops: Artificial tears can provide temporary relief by adding moisture back into your eyes.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If at-home care does not provide enough relief, or your symptoms get worse, it might be time to seek professional advice. Our team can identify the specific cause of your dry eye and create a treatment plan tailored to you.
Receive a Diagnosis and Treatment Plan
A comprehensive eye exam using modern eye care technology may determine if your issue is tear quantity or quality. An eye doctor can then recommend personalized treatments. These may include prescription eye drops, in-office procedures to unclog oil glands, or other therapies tailored to your individual needs.
Manage Your Dry Eye
Dry eye is often a chronic condition. The goal of treatment is to manage the symptoms so you can live more comfortably. With the right approach, you can protect your eye health and get back to your daily activities without constant irritation.
Comfortable Vision Is Around the Corner
You don’t have to live with the discomfort of dry eye. The welcoming team at Karns Vision Center is here to help you understand your symptoms and explore treatment options that suit your needs. Schedule your appointment in Knoxville, Tennessee, so we can help you find a path toward lasting relief.
