Symptoms for Dry Eyes
- Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
- Itching eyes
- Redness of the eyes
- Soreness of the eyes
- Excessive tearing
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision or difficulty keeping eyes open
- Stringy mucus in or around the eyes
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Dry and gritty feeling in the eyes
If persistent red, irritated, tired, or painful eyes trouble you, consult a healthcare provider. To alleviate discomfort, consider options like buying dry eye drops online and exploring reliable sources for dry eye drops Canada. Your eye health is paramount; seek professional advice for optimal care.
Causes for Dry Eyes
Dry eyes, resulting from disrupted tear film layers, require effective solutions. Addressing causes like environmental factors or medications is crucial. Explore options conveniently: buy dry eye drops online. Discover a range of dry eye products online to find relief. Canadians can access quality solutions easily by purchasing dry eye drops in Canada.
Tear film dysfunction can be caused by hormone changes, autoimmune disease, inflamed eyelid glands, allergic eye disease, decreased tear production, or increased tear evaporation.
Decreased tear production
Dry eyes occur due to inadequate tear production (keratoconjunctivitis sicca). Treatment focuses on restoring the balance of tear production and drainage. Common causes of decreased tear production include:
- Aging
- Medical conditions like Sjogren's, allergic eye disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma, graft vs. host disease, sarcoidosis, thyroid disorders and vitamin A deficiency can cause dry eyes.
- Certain medicines, including antihistamines, decongestants, HRT, antidepressants, and medicines for high BP, acne, birth control and PD.
- Contact lens use, nerve damage, or laser eye surgery can decrease corneal nerve sensitivity; temporary dry eyes can have long-term effects.
Increased tear evaporation
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Meibomian glands, which produce an oil film on the edge of the eyelids, can become clogged, particularly in people with rosacea or other skin disorders.
Common causes of increased tear evaporation include:
- Posterior blepharitis (meibomian gland dysfunction)
- Blinking less often can be a symptom of certain conditions, such as Parkinson's, or can occur when concentrating on activities like reading, driving, or using a computer.
- Eyelid problems, such as the lids turning outward (ectropion) and the lids turning inward (entropion)
- Eye allergies
- Preservatives in topical eye drops
- Wind, smoke or dry air
- Vitamin A deficiency
Dry Eye Risk Factors
Factors that make it more likely that you'll experience dry eyes include:
- People over 50 are more prone to dry eyes due to reduced tear production.
- Being a woman. A lack of tears is more common in women, especially if they experience hormonal changes due to pregnancy, using birth control pills or menopause.
- Eating a diet low in vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids can affect health, as these vital nutrients are found in liver, carrots, broccoli, fish, walnuts and vegetable oils.
- Wearing contact lenses or having a history of refractive surgery.
Complications
People who have dry eyes may experience these complications:
- Eye infections. Tears keep eyes safe from infection, but inadequate tears can increase risk of infection.
- Damage to the surface of your eyes. Untreated severe dry eyes can cause inflammation, corneal abrasion, ulcers and vision loss.
- Decreased quality of life. Dry eyes can cause difficulty with everyday activities like reading.
Prevention
Pay attention to situations that trigger dry eye symptoms, and find ways to avoid them in order to reduce the occurrence of dry eyes. For instance:
- Avoid direct exposure. This includes air blowing in eyes, such as from hairdryers, car heaters, air conditioners, and fans.
- Add moisture to the air. A humidifier can be used to add moisture to dry indoor air, particularly during winter.
- Consider wearing wraparound sunglasses or other protective eyewear. Eyeglasses can be fitted with safety shields to block wind and dry air; ask the optician when buying your glasses.
- Take eye breaks during long tasks. Take breaks from visual tasks by closing your eyes for a few minutes or blinking repeatedly for a few seconds to help spread tears evenly.
- Be aware of your environment. Spending time in dry environments like high altitude, desert and airplanes can cause your tears to evaporate quickly. To minimize this, close your eyes for a few minutes every so often.
- Position your computer screen below eye level. Positioning your computer screen below eye level can help reduce eye strain, as it will require less open eye movement. This may also help slow the evaporation of tears between blinks, leading to less dryness and discomfort.
- Stop smoking and avoid smoke. If you smoke, speak to your healthcare provider about a strategy to help you quit. If you don't smoke, make sure you avoid being around people who do, as smoke can worsen dry eyes symptoms.
- Use artificial tears regularly. Use eye drops regularly to keep eyes well lubricated, even if you don't feel any discomfort from chronic dry eyes.
Diagnosis for Dry Eyes
Tests and procedures that may be used to determine the cause of your dry eyes include:
- A comprehensive eye exam. An eye exam can help diagnose the cause of dry eyes by taking into account a patient's overall health and eye health history. This gives the eye care specialist vital information to make a more accurate diagnosis.
- A test to measure the volume of your tears. The Schirmer tear test is used to measure tear production. Blotting strips of paper are placed under your lower eyelids for five minutes, after which your eye care specialist measures the amount of strip soaked by your tears.
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- A test to determine the quality of your tears. Eye care specialists use special dyes in eye drops to test the surface condition of the eyes. The staining patterns on the corneas and tear evaporation rate are then observed and measured. This helps them gain insight on the overall health of the eyes.
- A tear osmolarity test. A tear composition test measures the amount of water and particles in your tears. People with dry eye disease tend to have lower water levels in their eyes.
- Tear samples can be used to diagnose dry eye disease. The samples are tested for markers such as increased matrix metalloproteinase-9 and reduced lactoferrin, which indicate the presence of the disease.
Treatment for Dry Eyes
For individuals experiencing mild dry eye symptoms, nonprescription eye drops (artificial tears) suffice. To conveniently address your needs, explore options like buy dry eye drops online or discover a variety of dry eye products online. Persistent symptoms may warrant prescription drops, tear duct plugs, or surgical interventions.
Explore effective solutions for dry eyes by discovering a range of treatments online. From reversing underlying causes to enhancing tear quality, find the right remedy for you. Browse and buy dry eye drops online, discover a variety of dry eye products online, and explore options specifically tailored for your needs, including top-quality dry eye drops Canada. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Treating the underlying cause of dry eyes
If you are experiencing dry eyes, it may be linked to an underlying health issue that can be addressed. Your eye care specialist may recommend a different medication if the original one caused the dry eyes. Treating the issue can help clear up the symptoms. Consider exploring options like buy dry eye drops online for convenient access to effective dry eye products online.
If you're dealing with eyelid issues, an eye care specialist might recommend consulting an oculoplastic surgeon, especially for conditions like ectropion, where the eyelids turn outward. Explore solutions conveniently—buy dry eye drops online and discover a range of dry eye products online to alleviate discomfort. Take proactive steps to manage your eye health with accessible solutions at your fingertips.
Medications
Prescription medicines used to treat dry eyes include:
- Medicines to reduce eyelid inflammation. Inflammation at the edge of the eyelids can disrupt the production of oil which is essential for tears. To manage this, antibiotics may be recommended by your eye specialist. These can be taken orally, as eye drops or ointments, depending on the case.
- Eye drops to control cornea inflammation. Prescription eye drops containing cyclosporine or corticosteroids may help manage inflammation on the surface of the eyes. However, corticosteroids should not be used for extended periods as they can cause adverse effects.
- Eye inserts that work like artificial tears. If you suffer from moderate to severe dry eye, an eye insert called Lacrisert may be a viable option. This clear grain-sized insert is placed between the lower eyelid and the eyeball once a day, and gradually dissolves to release a lubricant to soothe the eye. It is an alternative to artificial tears which may not be effective for some.
- Tear-stimulating medicines. Cholinergics (pilocarpine, cevimeline) are medicines used to increase tear production and come in the form of pills, gels or eye drops. Side effects may include sweating.
- Eye drops made from your own blood. Autologous blood serum drops are a potential treatment for severe dry eye symptoms that don't respond to other solutions. In order to make these eye drops, a sample of the patient's blood is processed to remove the red blood cells and then mixed with a salt solution.
- A nasal spray to increase tear production.
Other procedures
Other procedures that may be used to treat dry eyes include:
- Closing your tear ducts to reduce tear loss. Your eye care specialist may suggest a treatment to prevent tears from leaving your eye too quickly. This is done by partially or completely closing the tear ducts, which are responsible for draining away the tears. This can help keep your eye moist and comfortable.Tear ducts can be plugged with tiny silicone plugs (punctal plugs) which can be removed, or a more permanent solution called thermal cautery can be used, which involves applying heat to the tear ducts. Both methods can be used to reduce tear production.
- Using special contact lenses. Ask your eye care specialist about the options available, which may include increased hydration, improved oxygen transmission and better wettability for more comfortable wear.People with severe dry eyes may opt for special contact lenses, such as scleral or bandage lenses, that protect the eyes and trap moisture. These lenses are specially designed to shield the eyes from foreign particles and keep them well hydrated.
- Unblocking oil glands. Warm compresses or eye masks are an effective and easy way to clear up blocked oil glands. A thermal pulsation device may also help unclog the oil glands, but it is not yet known if it is more effective than warm compresses.
- Using light therapy and eyelid massage. Intense-pulsed light therapy, combined with massage of the eyelids, is a potential treatment for those suffering from severe dry eyes. This technique aims to reduce symptoms and improve the overall comfort of patients.
Lifestyle and home remedies for dry eyes
Managing dry eyes is essential through regular eyelid washing and the use of nonprescription eye drops or lubricating products. For chronic cases, consistent eye drop use is crucial, even when eyes feel fine. Explore convenient options to buy dry eye drops online and discover a range of dry eye products online for optimal eye care.
Selecting and using nonprescription products for dry eyes
Explore a variety of non-prescription solutions for dry eyes, including eye drops (artificial tears), gels, and ointments. Consult an eye care specialist to find the most suitable product for you. Conveniently buy dry eye drops online and discover a range of effective dry eye products online to alleviate discomfort and promote eye health.
Artificial tears are an effective solution for mild dry eye symptoms. Most people need to put drops in multiple times daily, while others only need to use them once a day. They can provide relief from discomfort and blurred vision.
Consider these factors when selecting a nonprescription product:
- Preservative vs. nonpreservative drops. Preservatives are added to some eye drops to extend their shelf life. It is recommended to use these preservative eye drops no more than four times a day, as using them more frequently can lead to irritation of the eyes. However, if irritation occurs, it is best to switch to a preservative-free eye drop.Nonpreservative eye drops come in packages of multiple single-use vials. You should discard a vial after use. If you need to use eye drops more than four times a day, these nonpreservative drops are safe and effective. They provide relief without the risks of preservatives, which can cause irritation and discomfort.
- Drops vs. ointments. Lubricating eye ointments are thicker than eye drops and provide longer lasting relief from dry eyes, but they can cloud your vision. For this reason, ointments are best used before going to bed, while eye drops can be used at any time without affecting vision.
- Drops that reduce redness. It's best to avoid these as your solution for dry eyes, as prolonged use can cause irritation.
Washing your eyelids to control inflammation
People with blepharitis or other conditions that cause eyelid inflammation resulting in blocked oil flow to the eye, should practice frequent and gentle eyelid washing. This can help to reduce irritation and provide relief from symptoms such as burning eyes, itching, redness, and crusting of the eyelids. To wash your eyelids, you can use mild baby shampoo or specialized eyelid wipes. Additionally, consider incorporating a regimen of lubricating eye drops; you can conveniently buy dry eye drops online for added convenience.
- Apply a warm washcloth to your eyes. Wet a clean cloth with warm water, hold it over the eyes for five minutes, and rewet it with warm water when it cools. Gently rub the cloth over the eyelids and lashes to remove debris. This simple method of eye cleaning can be done daily to remove dirt, dust and pollen and keep the eyes healthy.
Alternative medicine for dry eyes
Explore alternative medicine for dry eye relief, though research is ongoing. Before attempting any remedies, consult your eye care specialist for personalized guidance. For convenience, consider purchasing dry eye products online, ensuring easy access to effective solutions. Discuss potential benefits and risks with your specialist to determine the most suitable approach for your unique needs.
- Fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for relieving the symptoms of dry eyes. They can be taken as supplements or eaten as part of a balanced diet, with foods such as flaxseed, salmon and sardines being particularly high in omega-3s. Adding these foods to your diet may help to reduce symptoms of dry eyes.
- Castor oil eye drops. They work by increasing the oil content of tears, which reduces tear evaporation and helps to keep the surface of the eyes lubricated. Castor oil eye drops are easy to use and may provide relief from dry eye discomfort.
- Acupuncture. It is an alternative therapy that has been found to help people with dry eye symptoms. It involves using thin needles to stimulate certain points on the body, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve vision. Many people have reported positive results after trying acupuncture, and it is a safe and effective way of managing dry eye symptoms.
Preparing for your eye appointment
When addressing eye issues, consulting a doctor is crucial. If referred to an ophthalmologist, an eye specialist, it's vital to prepare for the brief appointment. Jot down questions and bring a friend for support. Additionally, explore a range of dry eye products online to complement professional advice and enhance eye health between appointments.
What you can do
- If you have an appointment with a doctor, it's important to list all symptoms you're experiencing, even if they don't seem related to the reason for your appointment. This includes any physical symptoms such as headaches, chest pain, or fatigue, as well as mental health symptoms like low mood, difficulty concentrating, or changes in sleep. Listing all your symptoms will help the doctor better understand your condition and provide an accurate diagnosis.
- List key personal information, including any recent life changes.
- Make a list of all medicines, vitamins and supplements that you're taking.
- List questions to ask during your appointment.
For dry eyes, some basic questions to ask include:
- What's the most likely cause of my dry eyes?
- Do I need any tests?
- Can dry eyes get better on their own?
- What are my treatment options?
- What are the potential side effects of each treatment?
- I have other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together?
- Is a generic medicine available for the medicine you're prescribing me?
- Do you have any brochures or other printed material that I can take with me?
- What websites do you recommend?
- Do I need to plan for a follow-up visit?
Don't hesitate to ask your optometrist any additional questions that may arise during the appointment. This could include anything from treatments to the types of glasses you should get. Asking questions can help you better understand your vision and the steps you can take to improve it.
What to expect from your eye doctor
You may be asked:
- Can you describe your symptoms?
- Do you recall when you first began experiencing symptoms?
- Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
- Do other members of your family have dry eyes?
- Have you tried nonprescription eye drops? Did they provide relief?
- Are your symptoms worse in the morning or late in the day?
- What medicines do you take?
- Have you had any radiation to the head or neck?
What you can do in the meantime
For relief while waiting to see an eye doctor, try over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, often called "artificial tears". Avoid eye drops that are meant to reduce redness, as they can make irritation worse. With the right eye drops, you can soothe your symptoms before seeing your doctor.
